Mountain biking holidays in the French Alps

One of Club Med’s newest (and only Exclusive Collection) resort in the Alps, Club Med Val d’Isère is the perfect place to explore the Alps by bike each day and relax in luxury upon your return. Seasoned road cyclists can enjoy the iconic Col de l’Iseran - and for a bit of help up those steeper elevations, the resort offers e-bike rental. The Col de l’Iseran is a challenging route through alpine scenery, on the highest paved mountain pass in Europe. The pass sits at an elevation of 2,770m and though it’s a tough climb, the stunning panoramic views of the French Alps make it worthwhile.

Val d’Isère also provides easy access to the Val d’Isère-Tignes bike park, which offers around 150km of mountain biking trails for a range of proficiency levels. At the top, you’ll find views across the range, including the iconic Mont Blanc peak in the distance, and whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, you'll find a trail that suits your skill level and preferences. Street sports enthusiasts can also try the pump track, which is suited to bikes as well as scooters, skateboards, or even rollerblades.

Perhaps one of the most famous resorts for cycling in the French Alps, Alpe d’Huez is home to the Tour de France’s most iconic ascent. From the town of Bourg d'Oisans up to Alpe d’Huez, this mountain pass is almost 14km in length and a challenge for even seasoned cyclists. Known for its 21 hairpin bends, enthusiasts from around the world make the trip to try this famous route, so it truly is a must-do for any keen road cyclists looking to book an activity-led holiday.

Road cycling is the go-to mountain activity for sports lovers here, but if you’d rather the help of electrically assisted bikes, Club Med Alpe d’Huez has you covered. For visiting families, Club Med Alpe d’Huez also offers accompanied mountain bike rides for children over the age of 8. Helmets, elbow and kneepads are all provided, and Mini Club Med instructors will guide them through the slopes to learn the joys of the mountains for themselves.

Valmorel is a great starting point for anyone looking to discover summer holidays in the French Alps. Alongside the e-biking and guided mountain biking that Club Med offer across all its mountain resorts, this is the chance to climb to the Col de la Madeleine and then fly down the steep slopes as fast as you dare. Club Med Valmorel offers a half day downhill mountain biking experience for all levels, which involves an ascent to the top of the mountain via ski lifts, followed by some thrilling downhill cycling. Open to all levels and those over the age of 14, it’s one not to miss for any guests to the resort.

For cyclists of any level, the Sentier des Lacs is a popular lake trail in the region, mixing natural beauty with some technical challenges along the way. It meanders up and down through the Tarentaise Valley, passing natural beauties including the Lac de la Grande Léchère, and is a truly authentic mountain biking experience.

One of Club Med’s most popular alpine resorts, Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon perches like a bird’s nest on the Saix plateau, overlooking green summer mountains and breathtaking alpine landscapes. The resort offers spectacular hiking and biking and relaxation in the Hammam spa when you make it home.

Belvédère du Saix offers a panoramic vista of the entire Saix Plateau, rewarding your’ hard work with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes. The trail leading up to the top is a challenging ride for even seasoned cyclists, but the views at the summit make it worth the climb. If you’d prefer something less intense, opt for the Tour du Lac: this lakeside trail encircles the serene Lac du Saix, offering cyclists a delightful and relatively easy day out, with picturesque scenery for constant company.

A resort nestled in the heart of Tarentaise Valley and sitting opposite the iconic Mon Blanc, Club Med Peisey-Vallandry provides plenty of opportunity for laid back holidaymakers and thrill seekers alike. Travel to the top of the mountain via ski lifts and conserve all your energy for the descent, or join one of Club Med’s accompanied rides to be treated to the scenic woodland trails accompanied by an expert guide.

The Boucle des Lacs is a well-maintained route that passes pristine mountain lakes including the Lac de la Rosuel and Lac de la Plagne. It’s a great option for experienced and beginner riders alike. Peisey-Vallandry is also home to a multitude of running trails, for anyone who wants a day out of the saddle. Enjoy beautiful loops through forests, along streams, or up steeper elevations throughout the Vanoise National Park.

Experience the ultimate summer mountain holiday with Club Med, where adventure and relaxation blend seamlessly amidst breathtaking alpine landscapes. Embrace the thrill of mountain biking on scenic trails, or choose from a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding. After a day of excitement, unwind with yoga sessions or indulge in our luxurious spa treatments. With exceptional all-inclusive packages, Club Med offers a perfect getaway for everyone. Book your unforgettable summer mountain escape now and create memories that will last a lifetime!