Wednesday 11 June 2014

All you need to know about Downhill Mountain Biking (VTT) in Vallorcine

If you love downhill mountain biking (VTT in French) then we (the Bellevue Alpine Lodge) suggest you add Vallorcine to your list.




640m vertical drop
The downhill mountain bike course in Vallorcine is possibly the best in the Chamonix Valley. Starting at 1900m at the top of the gondola, what follows is the stuff of dreams.


A 640m vertical drop, starts in open terrain and then takes you into the forest, alternating technical sections with single dirt track riding. 

There are different ‘modules’ that allow you to choose easier or harder options for the final section.




How long will it take?

The tourist office’s official publication suggests 30 minutes.  Experienced riders will do it in much less though! 

Check out this video for an insight in how more confident riders tackle the course:



How do I get to the top?

The Vallorcine gondola opens on the 3rd of July and will remain open until 29th August.  Opening hours are 08:30 to 17:30, but remember that the lift will close for lunch from 12:15 and 13:15.

Of course you can ride up – it’s probably an hour and half from Vallorcine to Col des Posettes.  It’s a tough ride though, so best of luck!

Is it all for hard-core mountain bikers?

No. There are routes in Vallorcine for all levels: beginners, intermediates and experts.  All start within minutes of the Bellevue Alpine Lodge

There are trails all the way along the Vallorcine valley to the Col du Montets on the Swiss border.

Most are suitable for any level, although the north-facing trail from the village (i.e. on the right hand side) is much more challenging.

You can also ride up to Chalet de Loriaz for lunch from Le Buet – that’s about an hour’s hard, uphill ride on a wide zig-zag track, but you get great views from the top.

Here's a map of some of the options available to you for mountain biking in Vallorcine:



Accommodation in Vallorcine

For a great location, minutes from the start of all the trails, and with B&B and Half Board (for hungry riders) options, please contact us at the Bellevue Alpine Lodge.  We have five bedrooms and availability from €65 per night.


Article by Iain Martin


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