Over the years, the French Alps have deservedly extended their reputation for delivering great thrills from winter sports to the realm of extreme sports in general. While certainly nowhere near as highly in demand during the warmer months as it is during the winter, France's main mountain range has managed to take those characteristics which make it a prime skiing and snowboarding destination and apply them to other sports as well.
Case in point: Alpine mountain biking. With a configuration that unites steep descents with hair-raising bends (and bordered by stunning views not fully enjoyable during the winter), it might seem as though the Alps were a no-brainer for fans of downhill and nature trail cycling. However, only in recent years does this sport seem to have begun being associated with the world-renowned mountain range, as more and more practitioners of the hobby discover all the region has to offer in this regard.
Below are just a few of the best resorts and areas in which to indulge in Alpine mountain biking. Unsurprisingly, many of these are locations that are already widely known as prime locations for skiing, although others may surprise even the most knowledgeable riders.
The Three Valleys
Anyone familiar with Alpine geography should not be surprised to learn that the list of best sites for Alpine mountain biking is dominated by the region known as Trois Vallees, or Three Valleys. This is where most of the best-known Alpine ski resorts are situated, and the very same characteristics that attract thousands of skiers every winter apply to Alpine mountain biking, as well.
As such, riders looking for a challenge need look no further than any of the areas in this region - from Morzine to Avoriaz and from Chamonix to La Clusaz. These sections offer plenty of opportunities for biking action regardless of each riders' favourite style, and fans of downhill in particular will not be let down by the variety on offer.
Further afield
It would be misguided, however, to think that the offer begins and ends with the Three Valleys. Further afield, plenty of other more or less well-known resorts await more adventurous riders - from Villard de Lans (site of the very first Mountain Biking World Championships, in 1987) to Alpe D'Huez, Les Deux Alpes or Le Grand Massif, which is single-handedly responsible for about 600km of mountain biking trails!
It is clear, then, that there is no lack on offer when it comes to Alpine MTB trails. The choice, therefore, is ultimately up to the rider, based on what he or she is looking to get from their experience.
Liz Olkowicz is the Business Development Manager for Ski and Summer Morzine, a tour operator, based in Surrey, offering tailor-made holidays. If you're looking for a thrilling holiday, Alpine mountain biking could be the sport for you. Morzine is the perfect location from which to explore the French Alps on a mountain bike, so for a great-value Alpine holiday, call us.
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