How to Get to Les Deux Alpes and Get Around

Les Deux Alpes is renowned for its glacier skiing in France, making it a top choice for year-round skiing and adventure activities. Whether you are planning to conquer the slopes or explore the many outdoor pursuits, understanding how to get to Les Deux Alpes is essential for your trip.

בידל הפייטן / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Reaching Les Deux Alpes by Car

Driving to Les Deux Alpes is a straightforward option, especially for those with equipment or those traveling in groups. The town is roughly 120 kilometers from Grenoble, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

To get there, take the A480 from Grenoble, then the N85 towards Bourg d'Oisans, followed by the D213 directly to Les Deux Alpes. It’s important to note that during the winter months, you may need snow chains, especially if the weather becomes treacherous.

The cost for fuel will vary, but you can expect to spend around 60 to around €60-100 on gas for the round trip from Grenoble. Parking is available at various locations in Les Deux Alpes, ranging from free spots to paid parking, which can cost up to around €80-130 for a week.

Using Public Transport to Get to Les Deux Alpes

Several public transport options are available to reach Les Deux Alpes. The most common route involves taking a train from major cities like Lyon or Grenoble. Here are the steps:

1. Train Journey: From Grenoble Train Station, take a train to Bourg d'Oisans. This journey takes approximately 1 hour. Train tickets can range from 10 to around €15-25 each way, depending on how far in advance they are purchased.

2. Bus Transfer: Upon arrival at Bourg d'Oisans, take the shuttle bus operated by Transisère, costing around €8-15 for a one-way ticket. The bus ride to Les Deux Alpes will take about 30 minutes.

This route is convenient but requires coordinating train and bus schedules, which could potentially add to the travel time.

Flying into Nearby Airports

If you prefer flying, the nearest major airport is Grenoble Alpes-Isère Airport, located about 110 kilometers from Les Deux Alpes. Several low-cost airlines operate flights to this airport from various European cities. Expect flights to range from 50 to around €120-190, depending on the season.

From the airport, the best option is to rent a car or take a shuttle service directly to Les Deux Alpes. Shuttle services typically take around 1.5 hours and may cost between 40 and around €60-90 per person.

Other airports include Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, which is larger and offers more international connections. The distance from Lyon to Les Deux Alpes is approximately 220 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2.5 hours by car or shuttle.

Local Transportation in Les Deux Alpes

Once you arrive in Les Deux Alpes, the town is very walkable, and most of the amenities are within a short distance of each other. For those looking to explore beyond the immediate area, local buses can take you to neighboring villages or more remote trails.

Ski Lifts and Access

The ski lift system in Les Deux Alpes provides extensive access to both skiing and mountain biking trails. The Diable lift gives access to high-altitude glacier skiing, while the new chairlift, La Fee, connects to several downhill mountain biking trails. Lift passes vary seasonally but are generally priced around €50-80 for a single day.

It’s wise to purchase a ski pass for the entire duration of your stay; prices start at approximately €250-375 for a week. Many services, such as ski rentals, are available near the lifts to make your experience smoother.

Outdoor Activities Beyond Glacier Skiing

While best known for its glacier skiing in France, Les Deux Alpes offers a range of activities to enjoy throughout the year. In summer, the mountain biking scene thrives with over 20 dedicated trails catering to various skill levels.

Additionally, paragliding is a popular activity, with local companies like Pulp & Co offering tandem flights from the summit for around €60-100 per person. This thrilling experience provides stunning views of the surrounding Oisans valleys.

<h3>Winter Activities</h3>

For winter sports enthusiasts, Les Deux Alpes is a haven with options for snowboarding, off-piste skiing, and family-friendly slopes. The snowpark is well-equipped, featuring railings, jumps, and other features, ideal for freestylers.

However, during peak seasons such as Christmas and February, be prepared for crowds and lines at the popular lifts like the Jandri Express. It can be a good idea to start early in the morning to avoid the busiest times.

Accommodations in Les Deux Alpes

Various accommodation options are available to suit different budgets and preferences. You can find hotels, hostels, and chalets. Prices vary but expect to pay around €120-190 a night for a mid-range hotel. During peak seasons, prices can rise significantly, so it is advisable to book in advance if possible.

Hostel options start at about €25-40 a night for a dormitory, making this a great choice for budget travelers. Consider places like Hotel Campanule, which offers comfortable stays with easy access to the slopes.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get to Les Deux Alpes from Grenoble?

The journey from Grenoble to Les Deux Alpes typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Public transport, including train and bus, might take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on wait times and connections.

What is the best time for glacier skiing in Les Deux Alpes?

The best time for glacier skiing in Les Deux Alpes is from June to August when the resort opens for summer skiing. During this period, conditions on the glacier are fantastic due to the higher altitudes and cooler temperatures.

Can you ski in Les Deux Alpes in the summer?

Yes, Les Deux Alpes offers summer glacier skiing, allowing skiing and snowboarding during the warmer months. The glacier is typically open for skiing from early June through late August, providing unique year-round skiing opportunities.

What are the costs for skiing in Les Deux Alpes?

Expect to budget approximately €250-375 for a week of skiing, which includes lift passes and accommodation. Equipment rental can add another around €120-190 to around €160-250, depending on the type and duration of rental.

Is Les Deux Alpes suitable for beginners?

Yes, Les Deux Alpes has a variety of slopes suitable for beginners. Several gentle blue runs are available near the village, along with ski schools offering lessons. Prices for beginner classes typically start at around €40-60 for a couple of hours.

What other activities are available in Les Deux Alpes?

Beyond skiing, Les Deux Alpes offers mountain biking, paragliding, hiking, and summer sports. The extensive lift system allows for easy access to numerous trails, catering to outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in France on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to the Calanques and the adventure guide to the Vercors.