Mountain Biking (VTT) & Cycling

Le Vallée Giffre and the surrounding area offers mountain bikers more than 400 kilometres of outstanding terrain. The winter ski lifts become summer bike lifts and whisk you to the top of the mountains where there are blue, red and black downhill mountain bike runs according to the International Classification. There are 30 mapped itineraries taking you through famous cols, down mountain tracks and through forest paths. For a less demanding ride there are gentler lakeside paths leading up to Sixt Fer à Cheval with its splendid waterfall in the beautiful "Réserve Natural" or simply around the local villages.

The Bureau de Guide and Tourist Office offer daily, guided programmes to suit all levels incorporating different themes, for example:

• The "Goûter à la Ferme" includes tasting local food in farms up the mountains and there are also trips into the lakes and mountains - you can even spend a night in a mountain refuge. The guides create an unforgettable experience with their inspirational knowledge of mountain life.
• "Le Tour du Haut-Giffre" is a magnificent 80 kilometre circuit on varied terrain. It can be done over two days and is certainly not to be missed for those dedicated mountain bikers who need a challenge.

Cycling

This whole area provides a perfect training environment for the competitive cyclist and wonderful scenic routes for the more passive cyclist.

Put yourself in the shoes of the Tour de France riders and attempt the challenging Col de Joux Plane. If this is not your idea of fun then relax and enjoy the flat valley floor that stretches for miles or the easier inclines of other surrounding routes. Whether you require strenuous or easy mountain roads or lakeside paths there is something for everyone. There are picturesque villages to explore and many great watering holes en route. There are many local clubs that arrange cycling tours and circuits creating a vast array of possibilities.

The season begins in April and lasts until October. Tours of Le Lac d'Annecy and Le Lac Léman are easy excursions for cyclists. If you enjoy watching competitive cycling, both the Tour de France and the Dauphiné Libéré pass through the valley regularly, along with smaller races.

Bike hire is available from sports shops in Morillon, Samoëns and Sixt Fer à Cheval and includes adult bikes with a child seat. Please contact Toni for further details at info@alpsinstyle.com or on +33 (0)450903110.