Mountain biking in the Alps offer some of the most stunning and challenging routes in the world, with a variety of terrain ranging from alpine meadows to rugged peaks.
Mountain biking in the Alps
These trails each offer unique experiences depending on what you’re looking for—whether it’s technical challenges, stunning views, or historical routes. The Alps provide something for every mountain biking enthusiast. Here are five of the best trails for mountain biking in the Alps.
Innsbruck to Seefeld (Austria)
Length: 20-30 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Gentle climbs, great for leisurely cycling
This relatively easy mountain biking route takes you on a shorter and less strenuous ride than many on this list. The route to Seefeld in the Austrian Alps takes riders past beautiful alpine scenery with views of the Karwendel mountains. The ride ends in the picturesque village of Seefeld, which is known for hosting winter sports events, and is also a popular summer destination for hikers and cyclists.
Les Arcs (France)
Length: Various trails (from 5 km to 60 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to advanced
Terrain: A mix of downhill tracks, cross-country trails, and enduro routes.
Les Arcs is known for its variety of trails, offering everything from technical downhill runs to scenic cross-country routes. It offers riders an incredible mix of technical trails, stunning mountain landscapes, and a variety of terrain suitable for all levels. The resort, part of the Paradiski area (which includes La Plagne), is renowned for its mountain biking scene and attracts riders from around the world. The terrain features downhill tracks, cross-country trails and enduro routes. You’ll find some of the most exciting downhill trails, with steep descents and challenging obstacles. There are also freeride zones for those looking to try out some tricks, jumps, and other freestyle elements. These areas are equipped with built-in features like dirt jumps and north shore sections. The panoramic views of Mont Blanc add to the experience, making it a top destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
The Via Claudia Augusta (Italy and Austria)
Length: 250 km (155 miles)/4-6 days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Terrain: Unpaved paths, gravel roads, forest trails
This ancient Roman road, now a modern bike path, offers a unique and scenic ride through the heart of the Alps. Starting in Italy and ending in Germany, the route takes riders through picturesque towns, vineyards, and forests, with incredible alpine views. It’s less technical than other Alpine routes, making it suitable for a wide range of bikers. Ideal for those who want to combine history, culture, and cycling. It’s an incredible ride that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The route traverses a variety of terrains, from forest paths and alpine meadows to challenging mountain passes, making it an excellent option for bikers who are looking for an adventurous and scenic ride.
St. Anton to Ischgl (Austria)
Length: 70 km (43 miles)/3-5 hours
Difficulty: Advanced
Terrain: Tough climbs, technical descents and rough mountain terrain.
The ride from St. Anton to Ischgl is an adrenaline-pumping route through the Austrian Alps. The route features a mix of rocky climbs, fast descents, and technical sections. It’s perfect for experienced bikers looking for a challenge and the thrill of high-speed downhill segments. The ride takes you through mountain passes, scenic valleys, and picturesque alpine meadows, making it a must-do for mountain biking enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the Austrian Alps. The area also has excellent lift systems to access some of the best trails.
Zermatt (Switzerland)
Length: 50 km (31 miles) of marked trails, with options for longer routes
Difficulty: Moderate to advanced
Terrain: It flows singletrack through alpine meadows to technical descents and challenging mountain passes. The trails vary from relatively flat, easy-going routes to demanding, steep, and rocky sections suitable for experienced riders.
Zermatt is one of the most iconic mountain biking destinations in the Alps, with a variety of trails catering to all skill levels. Riders can enjoy smooth flow trails, steep downhill sections, and the unique experience of biking with the Matterhorn as the backdrop. The route also offers technical climbs and exhilarating descents. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience the best of Swiss mountain biking. Some of the most popular mountain biking trails in Zermatt include the Matterhorn Glacier Trail (20km/12 miles) and Gornergrat to Zermatt (12km/7.5 miles).
If you’ve enjoyed reading reading our ‘Best mountain biking in the Alps’ article, checkout all our summer stories or our winter stories.
December 14, 2024
