| Quick Links |
|
| Top Picks... |
|
|
|
| Real Estate & Rentals |
|
 |
|
| Ski & Mountain |
|
 |
|
| Airport Transfers |
|
 |
|
Les Arcs Mountain Biking
| Mountain Biking (MTB / VTT) |
|
Les Arcs and La Plagne are two of the best downhill mountain biking sites in Europe. The riding is challenging, the views are spectacular and the long tracks just keep on flowing! Probably a resort best suited to intermediate/advanced riders, you’ll find plenty of demanding technical trails and steep downhill plummets. (NB: In French, mountain biking is called VTT. (Vélo tout-terrain!)) |
|
| What to Expect... |
Whatever you're looking for MTB-wise, you'll find it here in Les Arcs; plenty of gnarly downhill descents, lung-busting cross-country circuits and scenic 'rambles' through the Alpine landscape await you.
The lift system is efficient and takes you and your bike up to 2700m from where you can choose from a multitude of tracks to get back down into town; see our Summer Guide to find out about the lift system opening hours and lift pass prices. It can be as challenging as you like, some of the best French pro-riders come here to train so you can push it as much as you dare through streams and over the many roots, rocks and drops that characterise the terrain.
Many of the back-country trails require a little more effort to find, you may need a minibus or trailer to get there (many summer holiday operators offer this service as they cater well for bikers), but the general opinion is that is it well worth the effort and, in fact, their relative obscurity gives them that 'hidden gem' factor - you'll feel like you've really left the beaten track!
Les Arcs MTB / VTT trail map
|
|
last updated 13-May-2008 |
| What time of year is it best to come mountain biking? |
|
During July and August a number of lifts serving the Paradiski area open for mountain bikers and walkers. If you're not fond of the uphill or long ascents, you should come during these summer season months when and bars, restaurants and hotels are all open and the resort is liveliest.
Weather permitting, June, September and up to the end of October are good months to mountain bike as trails are quiet and the temperature cool. Too early in June or too late in October and there is a risk some of the higher passes maybe covered in snow and are therefore unsafe to traverse. You should note, however, that no lifts are open during these periods and the resort will be extremely quiet with limited shop and restaurant openings.
Whenever you choose please remember to respect others users of the mountain, especially walkers, and control your speed of descent... |
|
last updated 6-Nov-2008 |
| Mountain Biking Code of Conduct |
It is important to remember that the trails around the Les Arcs valley are used by many. Allegedly... during August a mountain bike policeman patrols around Les Arcs 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 Les Arcs 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. |
|
|
last updated 10-Apr-2008 |
|
