Downhill mountain biking
Downhill mountain biking in Savoie: A thrilling activity in the Alps
The French Alps are a spectacular playground for mountain sports enthusiasts. While the snow-capped peaks and ski slopes often take center stage, summer in Savoie reveals a completely different side, with its vast trail networks and dizzying descents. Downhill mountain biking, ou Downhill, is one of the most exhilarating disciplines that can be practiced there. Between La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel and Courchevel, the riders of all levels will find courses designed for adrenaline and fun. Let's dive together into this world where speed and technicality meet to create unforgettable experiences.
The origins of downhill mountain biking: from slopes to performance
Downhill mountain biking originated in the 1970s in California, when cycling enthusiasts began tearing down the mountains of Marin County on modified bikes. It quickly became a true extreme sport, with its own competitions, champions, and technological innovations. In Europe, the Alps have become an iconic location for downhill mountain biking, thanks to their spectacular elevation changes and breathtaking scenery.
Today, Downhill mountain biking is a recognized discipline with world championships and legendary races like the Megavalanche in Alpe d'Huez. In Savoie, this discipline quickly found its place, taking advantage of the infrastructure developed for skiing and the landscapes naturally suited to downhill skiing.
The Atmosphere on the Slopes
The atmosphere on the downhill slopes is unique. It's a close-knit community, passionate about speed, thrills, and nature. The sound of disc brakes, the smell of wet earth, and the palpable adrenaline create an electrifying atmosphere. bike park.
The RIDERS, whether beginners or professionals, often share moments of complicity on the ski lifts, discussing the best routes, the latest tricks or simply the sensations felt on a particularly technical slope. It is also a sport where mutual support is essential: we advise each other, we motivate each other and, sometimes, we help each other to get out of a bad fall.
We recommend starting the activity with an instructor who will share their best tips for getting started. After a quick introduction (cornering position, braking, safety precautions, etc.), the instructor will guide you through the specially designed downhill trails (bike park). In both summer and winter, the difficulty depends on the color: green, blue, red, or black. Have fun and don't forget to brake!
Conditions for practicing downhill mountain biking: Who can get started?
Downhill mountain biking is a demanding sport, accessible to those ready for the challenge. Here are the main criteria to consider:
- Physical condition Unlike traditional mountain biking, downhill mountain biking primarily requires the upper body and reflexes. You must be prepared to absorb shocks and maintain your balance on uneven terrain.
- Minimum age : Most resorts in Savoie offer slopes for children aged 10-12 years and over, provided they are accompanied and wear the necessary safety equipment.
- Essential Equipment : A full-face helmet, chest, elbow, knee, and sometimes even back protection are essential. Downhill bikes are specially designed to absorb shocks, with reinforced suspension and powerful brakes. Safety equipment is provided by our partner for your mountain activityGloves (not usually provided) are strongly recommended.
- Weather and Preparation Weather conditions can turn a fun descent into a technical challenge. On rainy days, the slopes become slippery and the roots treacherous. It's best to check before setting out.
The best downhill mountain biking spots in Savoie: Around La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel and Courchevel
The Savoy Alps are full of varied trails, ranging from technical courses to fun routes for beginners. Here are some of the best spots to get started:
- Bike Park of Les Arcs This area is renowned for its fast and technical descents. With over 180 km of dedicated slopes, it offers routes for all levels. The "La Cachette" slope is a must-see for speed lovers, while "La 8" offers a great variety of jumps and steep turns.
- Bike Park La Plagne : Here, you'll find more accessible slopes, perfect for beginners and families. Routes like "Colorado" and "Dré dans l'pentu" offer smooth descents with spectacular views of Mont Blanc.
- Bike Park Meribel : Méribel is famous for hosting the 2014 Mountain Bike World Championships. Its trails are therefore designed for competition, with steep and technical sections. The "Blue Line" trail is ideal for intermediate riders.
- Courchevel Less known for mountain biking than for skiing, Courchevel offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels. The marked trails allow downhill enthusiasts to enjoy the alpine scenery while indulging their passion. Courchevel offers interesting descents, particularly its red run "La Rouge de Courchevel" which offers a beautiful alternation of fast and technical sections.
Downhill mountain biking events in Savoie: La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel and Courchevel
Savoie is home to numerous downhill mountain biking events, attracting enthusiasts from all over Europe every summer. Here's a look at the major competitions and festivals in the resorts of La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel, and Courchevel:
Les Arcs: A Mecca for National Competition
The Les Arcs resort will host the French Downhill Mountain Bike Cup from June 27 to 29, 2025. The best French riders will compete on the legendary "La Cachette" track, renowned for its technical challenges and demanding layout. Organized by the Arc Mountain Bike Club, this event will also showcase young local talent.
La Plagne: The Super8 Festival
Every summer, La Plagne organizes the Super8 Festival, an event dedicated to mountain biking and electric mountain biking. In 2024, the fourth edition was held from July 12 to 14, offering a variety of events for all levels. The festival combines competitions, entertainment, and discovery of the region's trails.
The Super8 festival returns to La Plagne from July 12 to 14, 2025. This event offers a series of mountain bike and electric mountain bike races suitable for all levels, ranging from technical courses for experts to discovery rides for families. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the region's trails in a friendly atmosphere.
Méribel: A glorious past in the World Cup
Méribel hosted the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Finals in 2014, hosting downhill, cross-country and trials events. The resort continues to offer top-level downhill runs, such as the DH10 – G Force, used in the 2017 World Cup.
MEribel plans to organize a round of the French Enduro Mountain Bike & Electric Mountain Bike Cup in 2025. The exact dates will be announced soon, but enthusiasts can expect some challenging and spectacular courses.
Why try downhill mountain biking with family or friends during your chalet vacation?
Do Downhill mountain biking with family or friends invites you to share intense moments and create unforgettable memories. Teenagers are delighted to compete with their parents on the slopes.
Un stay in a chalet in Savoie is perfect for discovering this activity: after a day of descents, what could be better than getting together around a good Savoyard meal, relaxing in a jacuzzi or simply enjoying the panorama of the mountains?
In addition, our chalets in the Alps are situated near the slopes and makes it easier for you to access this mountain activity. It is also an opportunity to discover other activities in the region, such as hiking, paraglider or canyoning.
Get your fill of thrills in Savoie
Downhill mountain biking in Savoie is an experience not to be missed for thrill-seekers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, the resorts of La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel, and Courchevel offer varied and spectacular descents, all in an exceptional natural setting. So, strap on your helmet, get your bike ready, and hit the slopes for some pure adrenaline!
If you like downhill mountain biking in the summer, discover mountain biking in the winter
Mountain biking is also practiced on snowy slopes in winter! Have you ever tried the Mountain biking on snow ? We invite you to discover this winter mountain activity during your next luxury winter vacation in a chalet.
