• The French Alps have emerged from two million years of geological and glacial processes. The results have been spectacular and the potential for learning is huge. Teachers can give students first-hand experience of glacial features while observing the effects of climate and tourism. This educational trip will provide an inspiring personal and geographical experience.

    Subject Focus:

    • KS 4-5 Valley glaciers and glacial erosion
    • KS 4-5 Glacial transportation, deposition and moraines
    • KS 4-5 Plate tectonics and continental drift
    • KS 4-5 Hydro-electric power and geothermal activity
    • KS 4-5 Transhumance farming, tourism and recreation
    • KS 4-5 Case study: The need for sustainable tourism in the French Alps

     Student Outcomes:

    • Develop relevant fieldwork and geographical enquiry skills.
    • Study geographical phenomena first-hand, human and physical.
    • Understand the effects of environments on lifestyles and vice versa.
    • Broaden students' out-of-classroom geographical experiences.
  • Sustainability lectures

    Representatives of the tourism & commercial departments of Alpe d'Huez will talk to your group about the importance of managing tourism within the region and developing the local economy in a responsible fashion.

  • EDF hydro electric power station

    As seen in many parts of the Alps, glaciated valleys provide a perfect opportunity for the production of hydroelectric power. A guided tour of this local power plant and museum will provide pupils with a useful insight into the energy requirements of remote communities and how the development of new technology can be used to help the environment and local economy.

  • Écrins National Park

    This is the largest national park in France and has some of the finest examples of valley landscapes within its 227,332 acre limits. Well marked trails lead to open plateaux, melt water lakes, waterfalls and valley basins. The park is also home to several species of Alpine wildlife including: golden eagles, vultures, ibex, chamois and marmots. 

  • Museum of Huez and Oisan

    The rich mineral deposits that were left after glaciers retreated attracted many settlers to the Oisans Massif region and in the 12th century the site of Brandes was formed. Mining and pastoral activities increased local population levels and the Museum of Huez and Oisan, located in the centre of the Alpe d'Huez resort, traces the efforts of the early miners and the village from ancient geological times through to the current day.

  • Girose Glacier

    Taking a walk on a glacier is only advised with the assistance of a professional guide. The Girose Glacier is no exception and our mountain guide will accompany you and ensure correct safety equipment and procedures are in place prior to the exploration. A local geologist will also go along with your group to explain more about the many geological aspects of the glacier and in particular the characteristic flow into the valley. 

  • Alpe d’Huez

    Due to the high altitude, regular snow coverage, steep peaks and hairpin bends this area provides one of the world's largest ski resorts with 200 miles of piste and 84 ski lifts. In the summer months tourists still flock to the area for mountain biking, foothill trekking and to see the Tour de France's most exciting finishing point. The area's physical geography and sustainable tourism policy create an extremely interesting case study for school groups.

Suggested Accommodation

  • Le Mont Charvin

    Location: Notre Dame de Bellecombe

    Facilities: All of the rooms are spacious and offer plenty of natural light with views of either the village centre or Mont Charvin. Rooms are en suite with shower, toilet and comfortable beds. There is a large restaurant for groups to enjoy meals together and a lounge and bar with pool table and TV.

    Capacity: 50 Beds

  • Clubhotel Vallee Blanche

    Location: Alpe d'Huez

    Facilities: Located within the main resort area of Alpe d'Huez with a capacity for 160 guests staying in 41 en-suite rooms. Hotel facilities include: large restaurant, games room, in-house disco and recently modified classroom. Central location and most rooms have fantastic balcony views. 

    Capacity: 160 Beds / 41 Rooms

  • Clubhotel Belle Aurore

    Location: Alpe d'Huez

    Facilities: The Belle Aurore is our Flagship property in Alpe d'Huez and continues to sell out year after year. The unbeatable standards of service, its central location and south facing sun terrace make this is a fantastic summer Alpine hotel. Hotel facilities include: 38 en-suite rooms traditional dining room, bar and TV lounge.

    Capacity: 138 Beds / 38 Rooms

Discuss your requirements with an advisor:

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What teachers say...

  • QuoteIt makes a huge difference as a busy teacher to have people on the other end of the phone who always seem to be so helpful with solving the inevitable problems that arise in the organisation of such trips. Quote
    Mr Bentley
    Berlin tour

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