TL;DR
Les Deux-Alpes ski resort in France is extending its winter sports season until July, offering skiers and riders the opportunity to hit the slopes well into summer at high altitudes.
Les Deux-Alpes Extends Ski Season to July
While most French ski resorts close their slopes as spring arrives, Les Deux-Alpes in the Isère region is keeping its lifts running for skiers and riders until July. This unusual extended season allows visitors to enjoy winter sports alongside summer activities like hiking and mountain biking.
From now until May 28, skiing will be available from 2,600 metres altitude and above. Between May 29 and July 6, the ski area will shift to higher elevations, operating from 3,600 metres, including the Belvédère des Écrins area at 3,400 metres.
The resort's high altitude makes this late-season skiing possible, contrasting with lower-lying areas that have struggled with snow coverage. Adult lift passes for mountain access are priced at €49.50. This offering sets Les Deux-Alpes apart from other high-altitude resorts like Val d'Isère and Tignes, which only open their summer ski areas for professional training.
Les Deux-Alpes has invested significantly in its infrastructure to support year-round operations. A new state-of-the-art télécabine lift system, the Jandri, was installed this year at a cost of €148 million. This 52-cabin electric system can transport skiers and other mountain users from the base at 1,600m to the ski area at 3,200m in just 17 minutes, with a midway stop at 2,600m.
The Jandri lift is part of a larger €650 million improvement project across Les Deux-Alpes and l'Alpe d'Huez. These investments aim to enhance the resort's appeal and accessibility, allowing it to operate beyond the traditional winter season.
Les Deux-Alpes' commitment to summer skiing comes at a time when many French ski resorts are reassessing their operations due to changing climate conditions. Some lower-altitude resorts have already announced the end of downhill skiing, shifting towards year-round activities instead. However, Les Deux-Alpes' high-altitude terrain allows it to maintain snow coverage and continue offering skiing experiences well into the warmer months, providing a unique option for skiers and riders looking to extend their season.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
