In this guide
A rainy day doesn't have to be a lost day
In Alpe d'Huez the weather can change fast. A cloudy morning can give way to sunny spells, while a thunderstorm can stop the lifts within minutes. The trick is to have a few flexible plans up your sleeve rather than writing off the whole day.
The resort has a large sports complex, an indoor pool, a museum, a cinema and plenty of family-friendly activities. Chalet Jepima also offers a comfortable space to turn a few rainy hours into a proper break.
The best things to do when it rains
AgorAlp
The complex offers more than twenty activities: fitness, weights, aqua fitness, climbing, badminton, squash, shooting, table tennis and more.
Indoor pool
An easy option for the whole family. In 2026 it was open from 27 June to 30 August (closed on Tour de France finish days).
History and Archaeology Museum
The museum tells the story of the resort and displays finds from the medieval site of Brandes.
Cinema
The programme changes regularly. On rainy days, book or arrive early for family screenings.
Games and indoor mini-golf
Wooden games, table tennis and mini-golf can round off a rainy day, depending on which spaces are open and the pass you've chosen.
Indoor sports
Badminton, squash, climbing and group activities keep teenagers and adults active whatever the weather.
Ice rink
A fun summer surprise, subject to the conditions and opening times published by the operator.
Library and cultural activities
Check the weekly events calendar for short guided tours, workshops, exhibitions and one-off events.
A day at Chalet Jepima
Films, board games, cooking together, reading and resting in a bright, comfortable apartment.
Which plan for which kind of rain?
Passing showers
- Museum or café during the shower
- A short walk between showers
- Indoor mini-golf
- Quick dash back to the chalet if needed
Steady rain
- AgorAlp
- Indoor pool
- Cinema
- A long, lazy lunch
- Games at the chalet
Thunderstorm
- Avoid the lifts
- Leave ridges and lakes
- Stay inside a building
- Postpone biking and hiking
- Follow local instructions
What to do with children
Under 6
Stick to short, nearby activities: the pool, the indoor play area, a short museum visit, a snack and games at the chalet. An over-ambitious plan quickly leads to tired children.
Ages 6 to 12
Combine the pool, wooden games, indoor mini-golf and a cultural activity. Build in a proper break during the day.
Teenagers
Climbing, badminton, squash, the pool, the cinema or a sports session are usually the most popular options.
Three backup plans
- Indoor pool
- Lunch at the chalet
- Games or a film
- A short walk if it brightens up
- Climbing or badminton
- Lunch in the resort
- Pool
- Cinema in the evening
- Museum
- Lunch
- Exhibition or short guided tour
- Cooking and games at the chalet
Budget guide
| Option | Budget | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Games and a film at the chalet | Very low | Flexible | Stock up on food and activities |
| Museum | Low to moderate | 1 to 2 h | Check for guided tours |
| Indoor pool | Moderate | 1 to 3 h | Avoid peak times |
| Sport at the AgorAlp | Depends on activity | 1 to 2 h | Book courts in advance |
| Child Premium Leisure Pass | €42 (summer 2026) | Whole stay | Worth it if you do several activities |
Thunderstorms: the key rules
- Leave ridges, lakes, via ferratas and exposed areas.
- Don't shelter under an isolated tree.
- Don't take a lift if the operator announces it's closing.
- Avoid mountain biking during and just after a violent storm.
- Wait for it to pass inside a safe building.
Map of the main indoor facilities
Official sources