France
3) Chamonix
Situated at the base of Mt Blanc (Western Europe's highest mountain at 4807m), Chamonix is arguably the world's most famous mountain resort. However, it is different from the typical notion of a resort, being that it is a self contained town with thousands of inhabitants.
A vibrant alpine town with a wonderful architectural heritage that bears witness to a wealth of history is both captivating and enchanting.The nearest airport is Geneva, about an hour's drive away.
Chamonix has been welcoming visitors for over two and a half centuries and can be truly described as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering over 40km of track for the bike enthusiast. The sports centre with its swimming pools and water toboggan will delight all ages and on a wet day there's always the indoor climbing wall, fitness centre and spa, an olympic sized ice-rink and a cinema complex.
What does Chamonix have to offer?
| Cross Country |
Intermediate & Advanced |
| Downhill | Intermediate & Advanced |
| Freeride | Intermediate |
| Cable Car |
No |
| Gondola | YES |
| Chairlift | YES |
| Connected to | - |
DOWNHILL
At the top of the valley on the Balme area, a downhill run is
reserved exclusively for bikers, whilst one for more experienced rider is the new mega long
downhill into the Vallorcine which clings to the steep face of the hill
for around 7-8 minutes. Le Tour and
Vallorcine have numerous trails that can all be interlinked on longer
rides or sessioned by downhillers, fast, flowing and technical enough to keep you on your toes. Les Bois (2km north of Chamonix) also offers a variety of trails
for all abilities.
CROSS-COUNTRY
Chamonix really does have some classic singletrack with steep rocky
sections and flowing silky traverses. The steep and varied slopes of the Brévent offer an unforgettable experience overlooking a magnificent panorama. It is this
side of the valley that features the most trails, (the Aiguille du
Midi does not cater for bikes). The summer lift system is perfect for gaining altitude, particularly if its the downhill thrill you're after. There are several gondolas and chairlifts in Chamonix, Vallorcine and Le Tour which all cater for mountain bikes. The valley offers a large
number of trails, the best known being the « Petits Balcons ». The trails vary in length between 7 km and
30 km, the longest being Chamonix-Le Tour-Chamonix.
FREERIDE
There is not much freeride, but there are some hiiden dirt jumps to be found - just ask the locals!
Chamonix is a popular walking destination, so it is best to visit at the start or at the end of the season when the trails are quieter. Some of the hiking trails are closed to bikers during peak summer season.
Les Houches
Driving into Chamonix valley from the Mont Blanc highway, you will also find Les Houches...
Les Houches is becoming a dedicated summer resort in itself with 1
Cable Car and gondola servicing the rapidly growing MTB area with tree
lined runs and a bus service for all types of mountain biking from downhill, XC and freeride.
When in Chamonix:
Don't
miss a trip to the top of the Aiguille du Midi for the breathtaking
views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley. Take the lift up to the
highest station at 2800m where you get an impressive panorama views and
some great descending.
| Summer Lifts Open |
Lifts are open from 2nd week in June until end of Sept |
| Lift Opening Times | 08.30 - 17.30 (always check) |
| Lift Prices | A day pass is 20 € // A week pass is 80 € |
Directory:
Tourist office: T+33 450 530024
Website: chamonix.com
Download Chamonix Trail Map HERE