Les 2 Alpes

• High-altitude and snow-sure with glacier skiing (to 3600m) and 75% of the area above 2000m

• Well-balanced terrain suitable for beginners through to advanced skiers

• Strong freestyle reputation alongside excellent off-piste opportunities

Beginners

Les 2 Alpes is a reassuring place to learn. There are several beginner zones, including on the snowfront but also ones at 2100m and 2600m, meaning that whenever you go there are ideal conditions for those starting out. It’s often said that the higher slopes in Les 2 Alpes are amongst the easiest.

There are also wide, gentle slopes at resort level and higher up the mountain. A blue run following the Jandri trail between 3200m and 2800m is designed for slower skiing to take in the breathtaking views.

What stands out is the progression. You’re not confined to one small area, so as confidence grows, you can start to explore further while still sticking to manageable terrain. Ski schools are well organised, making those early days feel structured and supportive.

Intermediates

Intermediates are particularly well looked after here. There’s a huge choice of blue and red runs, including long descents from the glacier all the way back to resort.

The variety across different sectors and both sides of the resort (with the Vallée Blanche side) means you can explore something new each day. The long vertical descent (2300m) from the glacier to Mont de Lans (1300m) at the entrance to the resort, can be done without any lifts. This is a real highlight, offering both distance and a sense of achievement.

Advanced

For advanced skiers, there’s plenty to keep things interesting. You’ll find steeper black runs, more technical sectors and extensive off-piste terrain.

The glacier ensures reliable conditions, while areas like La Fée freeride zone and Le Diable, a favourite sector of good and very good skiers with reds and blacks through fir trees, offer more challenging descents. There is a good selection of serious routes with impressive vertical drops. Exploring neighbouring La Grave with a guide is a good option for those looking to push themselves further.

The resort has created several trails for those who want to try ski touring in a managed environment. These include the Parcours des Vallons, which features an 800m altitude differential. Two others are on the Vallée Blanche side of the ski area.

Mountain fun zones

Les 2 Alpes is one of Europe’s best-known freestyle destinations. The Toura snowpark (between 2600m and 2900m) is extensive, with themed zones and features categorised by ability levels, alongside a halfpipe and boardercross areas.

There are beginner-friendly freestyle zones, so it’s easy to try something new in a relaxed setting. Even if you’re not taking part, the atmosphere around the park is always worth seeing – and the sector is accessible to pedestrians.

• Wide range of non-ski activities suited to all ages and interests

• Strong offering for families and mixed groups

• Lively atmosphere continues beyond the slopes throughout the week

Plenty happening off the slopes

There’s no shortage of things to do in Les 2 Alpes beyond skiing. From sledging and ice skating on the outdoor rink to swimming pools and organised entertainment, there’s something to fill every afternoon and evening.

The snowfront area often feels particularly lively, with activities like the Big Air bag and tobogganing creating a fun, relaxed base for both skiers and non-skiers.

Family-friendly options

Despite its reputation for après, Les 2 Alpes works well for families. Dedicated play areas and a variety of off-slope activities make it flexible and easy to manage.

For something different, take the family to the ice cave at 3400m (accessible on foot as well as on skis). There are ice sculptures and light displays making for a magical immersive experience.

The resort also offers the chance for children from the age of 6 to try driving mini-snowmobiles! The tourist office puts together a weekly entertainment programme with free and low-cost activities often aimed at families.

High-altitude experiences

Non-skiers can still enjoy the mountain thanks to pedestrian lift access. Heading up to the glacier is a highlight, offering wide views and a real sense of the high Alps.

At the top, attractions such as ice caves and the viewing platform that juts out from the mountainside provide a memorable experience without needing skis.

Pedestrian access to the ski area

For non-skiers who want to meet up with those on the slopes in the day, Les 2 Alpes is well designed. As well as being able to head to 3400m to experience the Belvédère des Ecrins viewing platform, you can visit the ice cave, and slopeside restaurants at 2100m, 2400m, 2600m and 3200m are all accessible. When we visited, we enjoyed lunch with incredible views across the resort from the terrace of the Troika restaurant on the Vallée Blanche side.

• Excellent choice of restaurants across a range of budgets and styles

• Lively après-ski and nightlife scene

• Good range of shops and services for a convenient stay

Dining for every occasion

Les 2 Alpes offers a wide selection of dining options, from casual cafés and quick lunches to more relaxed evening restaurants.

You’ll also find seven mountain restaurants on the slopes, most of which can be accessed as a pedestrian too. We enjoyed Chalet de la Toura and the Pano bar when we were last there.

As well as traditional Alpine dishes such as fondue and tartiflette, there are restaurants offering a modern twist on traditional dishes (like Porte d’à Côté) and international cuisine, as well as places offering takeaways, making it easy to mix things up over the course of your stay.

Après-ski and nightlife

Après-ski is a big part of the experience here. Popular spots fill quickly in the afternoon, with music and a sociable atmosphere spilling onto terraces. The Umbrella bar at the foot of the slopes is a great choice for atmosphere.

Evenings often continue into late-night bars and clubs, giving the resort its lively reputation. Whether you’re after a relaxed drink or a more energetic night out, you’ll have plenty of choice.

Shops and essentials

The resort is well equipped with mini-supermarkets, bakeries, sports shops and local boutiques. Everything is easy to access, which is particularly helpful if you’re staying in self-catered accommodation.

There are also delis with local produce, ideal for easy meals or a relaxed evening in.