The best MTB trails around La Tour

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around La Tour, offering a diverse range of options for riders. These routes are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of nearly 4 stars.

La Tour offers a wide range of difficulty levels. You'll find trails catering to various skill sets, including 1 easy route, 6 moderate routes, and 24 difficult routes. The region is known for its 'red singletrack' and 'black singletrack' primarily designed for downhill riding, as well as easier 'green trails' and flowing 'blue tracks'.

Yes, there are options for beginners. The region features an easier 'green trail' established in 2012, which is accessible via the main Charamillon gondola and the Autannes chair lift. Additionally, komoot lists 1 easy route and 6 moderate routes that could be suitable for those newer to mountain biking or looking for a less strenuous ride.

Mountain biking in La Tour is characterized by its alpine environment and diverse terrain. You can expect rolling grassy slopes, varied singletrack, and routes that often traverse through natural reserves. Altitudes for riding typically range from 1,264m to 2,270m, providing significant elevation changes and stunning mountain backdrops.

Yes, many routes in La Tour are designed as loops. For example, the Col de la Colmiane – Saint-Martin Pass (La Colmiane) loop from Col Saint-Martin is a moderate 10.7 km circular trail. Another option is the more challenging Saint Dalmas – A Thousand Rocks loop from Saint-Dalmas, which covers 18.4 km.

The trails around La Tour offer breathtaking alpine scenery and access to several natural features and viewpoints. You might encounter highlights such as Mont Vial, the dramatic Gorges de la Vésubie, or enjoy a View of Gilette and the Rocky Cliff. The region is part of the stunning Chamonix Valley, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride.

Beyond the trails, the region boasts several attractions. You can explore the start of Col Saint-Martin or the Saint-Martin Pass (La Colmiane). The quaint Le Tour village itself serves as a charming hub with coffee houses and eateries, and the Aiguille Rouge Nature Reserve offers extensive biodiversity and views of the Col des Montets.

The Chamonix Valley, where La Tour is located, is best enjoyed for mountain biking during the warmer months when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are stable. The region's alpine nature means that spring and autumn can also offer good riding, but it's always advisable to check local conditions before heading out, especially at higher altitudes.

Absolutely. Many trails in La Tour feature significant elevation changes, characteristic of the alpine environment. For instance, the Mont Viroulet par le col de la Séréna en boucle – Parc national du Mercantour route involves over 1,490 meters of ascent and descent over its 21.2 km length, navigating through challenging alpine landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning alpine views, and the range of trails that cater to different skill levels, from flowing descents to technical singletrack.

The Chamonix Valley, including Le Tour, generally has good public transport links, which can aid in accessing trailheads. The region's infrastructure, such as the Charamillon gondola and Autannes chair lift, also provides direct access to certain trails, including the easier 'green trail'.

Le Tour village, a central hub for accessing trails, offers a charming atmosphere with coffee houses and eateries where you can refuel. For bike rentals and shops, the wider Chamonix Valley is well-equipped to cater to mountain bikers' needs, providing services for equipment and repairs.