Mountain biking in the Annecy region is particularly interesting due to its mountainous terrain. This sport is gaining more and more enthusiasts. We offer you the best mountain biking spots in Annecy. Mountain biking is mainly practiced in the mountains in the region, descending forest trails and in resorts equipped with tracks and ski lifts.
Our tips for practicing mountain biking in Annecy
Annecy is a magical place for mountain biking. Here we provide all the information to discover how to practice it in the region.
What is the best season to go riding?
- From April to June: the weather is mild and the days are longer. The trails are less crowded.
- In July and August: the crowds are significant, so it’s best to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Until October: a good period, much less crowded.
- From November to March: you need to be very careful, as the trails can be slippery with fallen leaves, mud, and sometimes snow.
An appropriate mountain biking outfit depending on the season
- In summer: sportswear with suitable shoes, don’t forget to hydrate, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- In winter: warm and lightweight clothing is necessary, and your head and hands should be protected from the cold.
The different disciplines of mountain biking
- Cross country: this is the classic and popular way to practice mountain biking. At your own pace, you can enjoy nature.
- Downhill or downhill mountain biking: this variant involves descending slopes as quickly as possible. The duration does not exceed 15 minutes due to the significant effort required.
- Electric mountain biking: a small revolution since the effort of climbing is eliminated, leaving only the pleasure. The sensations are definitely there. However, the price of these little toys is still quite high.
Now that you are equipped, you need to choose the best places.
The best mountain biking spots around Annecy
We have selected five high-quality locations that allow you to practice mountain biking in different ways:
Semnoz
The Semnoz near Annecy has multiple trails. It is highly frequented for a 15 km descent. A shuttle during the summer will take you and your mountain bike to the start of the trails.
The tour of Mont Veyrier
This beautiful 25 km loop takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes with an elevation gain of 240 m. Starting from Annecy-le-Vieux, you need to climb the Col de Bluffy and then ride through the plain of Alex, where you will have a magnificent view of the Château de Menthon. The return is along the shores of the lake towards Veyrier-du-Lac.
The Fier loop
This 60 km route with a 330 m elevation gain starts in Cran-Gevrier heading towards Chavanod and then follows the road of Creuses to Rumilly. The return is from the Pont Saint André along the Fier back to Annecy.
The Montagne d’Âge
This route allows you to ride through a landscape that alternates between countryside and forest, with a low elevation gain making it accessible to a larger number of people.
La Clusaz
The resort of La Clusaz welcomes you in summer with ski lifts. On the program, 12 cross country trails and 3 downhill trails. You can also admire the Aravis valley, located 20 minutes from Annecy.
Video of the downhill from Semnoz on a mountain bike
Essentials in your mountain biking bag
To address all the various issues you may encounter during a mountain biking outing, we recommend filling your backpack with:
- A multi-tool
- A tire lever
- A pump
- A spare inner tube
- A quick link
- A derailleur hanger
- Some duct tape
- A water bottle
- Some energy bars
- A phone
- A small first aid kit
- A flashlight
- A rain jacket
The forests are vast, so if you go alone, don’t forget to inform your loved ones about your route.
Mountain biking clubs in Annecy
- Annecy cycling competition: mountain biking school for ages 8 to 16
- French Alpine Club of Annecy: mountain biking group
- CCAV74: cycling and mountain biking club in Annecy-le-Vieux
- Cyclo VTT Passion of Haute-Savoie
- ASPTT Annecy cycling road and mountain biking club
Where to rent a mountain bike in Annecy?
If you want to rent a mountain bike in Annecy, whether for hiking, downhill, or circuit mountain biking, there are many addresses available. It’s also an opportunity to rent an electric mountain bike to try out these new bikes or to ease back into sports! There are many options to rent a mountain bike. Some rental shops offer electric mountain bikes that make certain steep trails more accessible.
More information: Getting around Annecy
