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Meribel Mountain Biking
| Mountain Biking (MTB / VTT) |
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Terrain that is good for skiing is, in summer, great for mountain biking! Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular in Alpine resorts; Méribel and the Three Valleys have fitted special bike racks to the gondolas and some chairlifts, so you can be transported to the top of the trails and freewheel down. A trail map covering the Three Valleys is available from the Tourist Office, and group outings are organised during the summer season. Mountain bikes are available to hire from several sports shops in the resort. (NB: In French, mountain biking is called VTT. (Vélo tout-terrain!)) |
| What to Expect... |
Méribel is part of the huge 3 Vallees Ski area and has massive mountain biking potential. The area has an extensive network of singletrack trails, downhill courses and fireroads. There is also a bike park which, although in its early years, is developing each season.
Check out our Summer Guide to Méribel to find out about the lift system and lift pass prices for mountain bikers.
Méribel MTB / VTT Trail Map
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last updated 13-May-2008 |
| What time of year is it best to come mountain biking? |
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Weather permitting, June, September and up to the end of October are good months to mountain bike as trails are quieter and the temperature a bit more ambient. Too early in June or too late in October and a number of the higher passes maybe covered in snow and are therefore unsafe to traverse. The lifts serving the valley tend to open during the second week of June and close mid-September. If you're not fond of the uphill or long ascents, you should consider the busy summer months of July and August; when the summer lift system is fully functioning. However this is high season where prices are high and trails extremely busy. There are also restrictions placed on certain trails and tracks during these months. Whenever you choose please remember to respect others users of the mountain, especially walkers, and control your speed of descent... |
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last updated 10-Apr-2008 |
| Mountain Biking Code of Conduct |
It is important to remember that the trails around the Meribel valley are used by many. Allegedly... during August a mountain bike policeman patrols around Meribel 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 Meribel 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. |
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last updated 10-Apr-2008 |
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