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Val d'Isere Mountain Biking
| Mountain Biking (MTB / VTT) |
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Val d’Isere is great for the keen skier in winter with an array of long, steep descents across the Bellevarde, Solaise and La Daille areas. However, these slopes are much more difficult to tackle in summer on a mountain bike. There has been a downhill track from the top of the La Daille cable car for nearly 10 years but it is very technical and is therefore only ridden by the most experienced riders. There are many more options for mountain biking in Tignes so this may be worth considering if staying in Val d’Isère. (NB: In French, mountain biking is called VTT. (Vélo tout-terrain!)) |
| Mountain Biking Trails / Areas in Val d'Isere |
In an attempt to develop the sport in resort, a new downhill track has been developed this summer which is accessible to the greatest number of bikers. “Val Bleu” is laid out over nearly 7km from the arrival point of the Olympique Express (at the top of La Face de Bellevarde) to the foot of La Daille, nearly 900m of descent taking about half an hour and covering a variety of terrain. In the first section there is a high mountain atmosphere. Then it goes over tuff, an abrasive limestone rock, which is good for speed but also for shaking you up a bit. Then, finally, there are dirt tracks winding their way through the trees.
For those who fancy more of an expedition there is the High Exposure Isère Descent Itinerary (called H.E.I.D.I. for short - very Alpine!). Starting at the Col d'Isèran the singletrack descent winds its way through Val d'Isère, Nantcruet, Le Monal, Sainte Foy and finishes in Viclaire at the base of the Val d'Isère valley. At over 60km long and dropping around 3700m (from 2764m to 800m) this ride shows off the spectacular scenery of the Alps at their best. The peaks of the Vanoise National Park and the icy caps of the glaciers will make this an unforgetable ride!
Martin Léger, Killy Sport, Ogier, Jean Sport and Intersport hire out Mountain Bikes for ~15€ per day, click here for contact details. Tuition is available through Evolution 2 and Val Gliss and there are also several private instructors who advertise in the hire shops offering outings of one or several half days in groups of 3 to 6. Approximate prices (supervision and instruction, equipment and cable car pass included): €50 for a half day with a semi-rigid mountain bike, €70 with a mountain bike with full suspension. See our Summer Lift Passes section for lift pass prices.
H.E.I.D.I. Route Map
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last updated 13-May-2008 |
| What time of year is it best to come mountain biking? |
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Weather permitting, June, September and up to the end of October are good months to mountain bike as trails are quieter and the temperature a bit more ambient. Too early in June or too late in October and a number of the higher passes maybe covered in snow and are therefore unsafe to traverse. The lifts serving the valley tend to open during the second week of June and close mid-September. If you're not fond of the uphill or long ascents, you should consider the busy summer months of July and August; when the summer lift system is fully functioning. However this is high season where prices are high and trails extremely busy. There are also restrictions placed on certain trails and tracks during these months. Whenever you choose please remember to respect others users of the mountain, especially walkers, and control your speed of descent... |
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last updated 10-Apr-2008 |
| Mountain Biking Code of Conduct |
It is important to remember that the trails around the Val d'Isere valley are used by many. Allegedly... during August a mountain bike policeman patrols around Val d'Isere and Bois du Bouchet to ensure that bikers are not riding on specific trails reserved for exclusive pedestrian use. Before setting out, you should check with the Tourist Office that your chosen route has no restrictions.
The following 6 mountain biking rules were introduced by the International Mountain Biking Association, and should be understood and followed by every mountain biker before venturing out.
| 1. | Ride on open trails only. The mountainside and it’s environment is precious, ensure your cycling is environmentally sound and socially responsible. | 2. | Leave no trace. Stay on existing trails and don’t create new ones, so no cutting off switchbacks! | 3. | Control your bicycle. Where safety notices are displayed, take note and follow them ! | 4. | Always let your fellow riders know you’re around Many trails are also used by hillwalkers who have priority over mountain bikers. In Val d'Isere there are trails which are off limits at certain times of the year so it’s best to check this out before you venture out. | 5. | Never scare or intimidate the local wildlife. Remember to leave gates as you found them. | 6. | Plan ahead. Check out your equipment before setting of to ensure it’s in good repair, taking puncture repair and basic tool kits with you. Carry necessary supplies including food and waterproofs. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear for the terrain you’re about to tackle. |
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last updated 10-Apr-2008 |
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