At 1¾ mls long and ½ ml at its widest point, Les Deux-Alpes is a small resort with a population of only about 3,000 out of season, swelling to over 35,000 when the ski-season is in full swing. Although a ski-resort since the 1930s, it didn't really take off in a big way until the 1970s - the results of which can be seen in some insensitive development and a vaguely tacky apres-ski feel. The busy central square and single main street give the impression of a busy town rather than an alpine village but it is easy to escape into the mountains - whether you are hitting the slopes in winter or enjoying the stunning scenery in summer.

A popular choice in summer with Italians. During winter the British and Italians still outnumber the French - both as tourists and staff. Beginners and intermediates are well catered for on the high-altitude slopes, but there are very few nursery slopes at resort level. Advanced skiers have a limited choice of slopes.

From less expensive, simpler hotels to modern apartment blocks. A wide choice of mid-range accommodation.

Situated along the main street and at the commercial centre at the Place de l'Alpe de Venosc. Predominantly sports shops selling expensive designer equipment.

Daytime: skiing and snowboarding in both winter and summer (mornings only) on the glaciers above the resort; other winter activities include snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing; sports centre offering gym, squash, weight training and sunbeds; indoor pool. In summer, hiking, horse riding, bungee jumping and white-water rafting; heated outdoor pool. Several folk festivals in nearby villages of l'Alpe de Venosc and l'Alpe de Mont-de-Lans. Nightlife: cinemas and bowling, as well as a multitude of bars and heaving nightclubs; night skiing.

Many reasonably priced snack bars, creperies and pizzerias. Choice of several high-quality restaurants offering international cuisine and local dishes.

A free ski-bus service circulates the entire resort, linking all the lift stations well into the evening.

Full day: skiing at Alpe-d'Huez; Grenoble, with its shopping, museums, churches and scenic environs.

In SE France, in the SE Isere region. 24 mls SE of Alpe-d'Huez. 46 mls SE of Grenoble. 100 mls SE of Lyon. 70 mls SE of Grenoble and its airport.

Set in a valley running N to S, with E-facing ski-slopes. The W-facing slopes have very poor snowfall, so skiing there is limited and cannot be guaranteed.

Post Code: 38860
Website: www.les2alpes.com

Airport : Satolas
Airport Code: LYS
Flight time from ther U.K.: 1 hr 30 mins