Many of us dream of being able to sunbathe at this time of year but we don’t know where to go. The first thing that comes to mind is the Caribbean and its incredible sundrenched beaches. However, you do not have to go to the other side of the world to get some sun in winter. With that in mind, we suggest that you visit the “Sun Island” this winter to replenish your vitamin D and get a tan.
The benefits of vitamin D in Alpe d’Huez
It is well known that the sun has a big impact on our metabolism and helps strengthen our immune system. In winter, we get around 1000 lux of light intensity, compared to 10,000 lux in summer. Another of the great benefits of the sun is that it improves our sleep. The light we receive from the sun stimulates the receptors located in our retina and activates the secretion of melatonin.
So, choosing a holiday in the sun will help you keep your spirits up, be more relaxed and fill you up on vitamin D. But, sun at Winter you say, keep reading about Alpe d’Huez!
Sun Island: 300 days of sunshine a year
Situated at the top of the gates of the Ecrins National Park, the resort is surrounded by a sea of clouds and always seems to be bathed in the sun. With its slopes facing south, Alpe d’Huez enjoys the maximum exposure possible to the sun.
Its favorable climate allows exceptional exposure to the sun: 300 days a year. Perched on an exposed plateau, the Alpe d’Huez ski resort is located at an altitude of 1860 meters. Exceptional sun and great snowfall coverage make the perfect tandem for skiers.
The generous microclimate of Alpe d’Huez allows it to proudly show off its nickname of Sun Island (Île au Solei). Relaxation on a deckchair in front of a sea of clouds does exist, and it is found at Alpe d’Huez.
Panoramic views from the top of the island
The highest peak on an island, Pic Blanc (3,330 meters high), offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region and in France. This panorama is even classified with 3 stars in the Michelin Guide. Its proximity to Ecrins National Park offers an exceptional diversity of landscapes.
Unlike tropical islands, this “Sun Island” is easily accessible by car, from Grenoble. Alpe d’Huez benefits from many free parking areas to minimize the carbon footprint of anyone looking at spending their winter in the sun!
Skiing and vitamin D in Alpe d’Huez
Vitamin D levels are heavily related to sun exposure. Indoor sports and the winter period are a detriment to the production of vitamin D. To avoid this, it is important to expose yourself to fresh air and go outside to practice sports. And what better than skiing in Alpe d’Huez?
With a total of 2,200 m of incline in an area of 150 km, the resort’s 120 marked out routes guarantee safety, whatever your level of skiing. In Alpe d’Huez, you will inevitably find the right piste for your level and wishes.
The expert skiers among us should know that the Sarenne, which rises to an altitude of 3,300 meters, is the longest black run in Europe: 16 km. Descending this incredible run can last between 30 and 40 minutes. It’s a unique sensation on an endless run that will delight the most experienced skiers.
If you want to show off a tan that will make you the envy of the rest of the skiers, and you are not willing to spend hours sunbathing while skiing, we have the perfect solution for you.
We also recommend that you take care of your hair during your stay in sunny ski resorts, so that you can not only look tanned, but also make sure that your skin is well protected from the sun.
Don’t forget your flip flops
When you pack for Alpe d’Huez, don’t forget to pack your flip-flops and your swimsuit. You can soak up the warm waters of the Alpe d’Huez pool. It’s a unique facility that offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
And for the more luxury minded, it is best to meet in the bathroom bar at the 4-star Hotel Grandes Rousses. Cocktail fans, make no mistake – cocktails aren’t just for drinking. Choose your favorite drink (champagne, mojito, piña colada, detox) and immerse yourself in this colorful universe. The piña colada bath is actually a coconut milk bath for dry skin, while the mojito bath relaxes body and mind with its hot-cold effect. This has to be tried, with no apprehensions!
For children, there’s a bath of “cotton candy” with a coconut and pineapple milk, accompanied by fresh fruit juice … Not forgetting the candies!
Winter sun lovers … let’s face it: you don’t need to take a plane to stock up on vitamin D in winter. I Love Ski has found THE station that will return your smile and your good humor this winter.
