NIKON D800, AF Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8D, à 45mm, f/2.8, 1/100, 640 ISO. Photo Pascal TournaireNIKON D800, AF Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8D, à 45mm, f/2.8, 1/100, 640 ISO. Photo Pascal Tournaire
©NIKON D800, AF Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8D, à 45mm, f/2.8, 1/100, 640 ISO. Photo Pascal Tournaire|Pascal Tournaire
HighlightIce cave

Ice cave

Why not take a break between two ski runs to visit the ice cave at 2700m? With its snow and ice sculptures, it’s a natural art gallery in the heart of the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine ski area, with a 120m-long gallery created by artists.

A man-made, ever-changing grotto

For over 20 years, the ice cave has been created by people every year. Mountain guides got the idea of building this cave from a tunnel filled with air. It had the air let out of it and was then covered with snow. The cave is made at the start of the season and stays open all winter until the ski area closes in April. Each year, the artists have a different theme to base their sculptures on, like the Himalayas (2018), the funfair (2019) and farm animals (2020).

A fun family outing

You don’t need to be a caver to see this cave, it’s open to everyone! Leave your skis at the entrance and step into a winter wonderland! The ice cave is in the ski area, at a height of 2700m. With its beautiful art displayed along 120 metres of gallery and igloo, it’s a magical and enchanting world of snow and ice. Take time to admire the detail and precision of the sculptures carved into the snow or ice, all lit up with coloured lights. You’ll notice how cold it is in there too – whatever the weather outside, the temperature doesn’t climb above 1°C! There’s plenty of marvels waiting for you in this cave – not to be missed!

A whimsical place in the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine ski area 

To get to the ice cave, take the second stretch of the DMC up to 2700m. It’s ideal for a whimsical break between two ski runs or easily accessible on foot using the ski lifts. Don’t forget your cash as there’s an entry fee for the cave. Our tip – if it’s a clear day, take the cable car up to Pic Blanc, the highest point in the ski area, to get a stunning view of the surrounding Alpine peaks!

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