If you’re searching for the ultimate mountain biking holiday in Europe, look no further than Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil. Spanning across France and Switzerland, the Portes Du Soleil mountain bike area is widely regarded as one of the best mountain biking destinations in the world, offering over 650km of trails, bike-friendly lifts, world-class bike parks, breathtaking alpine scenery and terrain for every riding style. Whether you’re a downhill racer, enduro enthusiast, trail rider or complete beginner, Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil delivers an unforgettable experience.
For riders travelling from the UK, Europe or further afield, Morzine has become the beating heart of the region, attracting thousands of mountain bikers every summer. From legendary downhill tracks to flowing jump lines and epic cross-country adventures, it’s easy to see why mountain bikers return year after year.
Why Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil is So Popular
The Portes Du Soleil is the largest linked mountain bike area in Europe, connecting multiple resorts through an extensive network of lifts and trails. Riders can explore:
All with a single lift pass.
The scale is staggering. Riders can spend a week exploring and still barely scratch the surface. With lift-accessed trails, huge vertical descents, professionally built bike parks and stunning views of the French and Swiss Alps, it’s one of the premier destinations for mountain biking holidays in Europe.
Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil: Morzine
Morzine is the most popular base for mountain bikers and provides easy access to the entire trail network.
Why ride Morzine?
- Direct access to multiple bike parks
- Great accommodation options
- Bike shops, rentals and workshops
- Vibrant après-bike atmosphere
- Suitable for beginners through to expert riders
The famous Pleney trails are legendary among downhill riders. Expect rooty sections, technical terrain, jumps and fast descents that have helped establish Morzine as one of Europe’s top mountain biking destinations.
Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil: Les Gets
Les Gets offers some of the most accessible and family-friendly riding in the region.
Highlights include:
- Smooth flow trails
- Excellent jump lines
- Progressive trail grading
- Stunning alpine scenery
- Regular international mountain bike events
The bike park has become famous for hosting World Cup mountain biking events and remains one of the best places in Europe to improve your riding skills.
Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil: Châtel
For experienced riders seeking bigger challenges, Châtel is a must-ride destination.
Expect:
- Technical downhill tracks
- Large jumps and features
- Steeper gradients
- Advanced bike park terrain
Many experienced riders consider Châtel one of the best areas for gravity-focused riding in the entire Portes Du Soleil network.
Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil: Avoriaz & Super Morzine
The Super Morzine and Avoriaz sector provides a fantastic blend of flow trails, natural singletrack and enduro terrain.
Perfect for:
- Intermediate riders
- Enduro bikes
- Scenic alpine riding
- Longer trail adventures
The area’s famous alpine villages and mountain views make this one of the most picturesque riding zones in the Alps.
Best Mountain Bike Trails in Portes Du Soleil
Le Pleney Mainline Trail
One of the most iconic downhill mountain bike trails in Europe.
Best for:
- Advanced riders
- Downhill bikes
- Technical terrain
Chavannes Bike Park Trails
A brilliant collection of blue, red and black runs perfect for progression.
Best for:
- Beginners
- Intermediate riders
- Families
Air Voltage
Arguably one of the most famous jump trails in Europe.
Best for:
- Jump enthusiasts
- Experienced riders
Les Gets Flow Trails
Perfectly shaped berms, rollers and jumps create some of the most enjoyable riding in the region.
Best for:
- Intermediate riders
- Trail bikes
- Enduro bikes
Swiss Side Adventures
Head towards Morgins and Champéry for a more natural alpine riding experience.
Best for:
- Enduro riders
- Trail explorers
- Advanced mountain bikers
Best Time for Mountain Biking in Portes Du Soleil
June
Ideal for riders wanting quieter trails and cooler temperatures.
Pros:
- Fewer crowds
- Fresh trail conditions
- Lower accommodation prices
July and August
Peak mountain biking season.
Pros:
- All lifts operating
- Best weather
- Lively atmosphere
- Bike events and competitions
Cons:
- Busier trails
- Higher accommodation costs
September
A favourite among experienced riders.
Pros:
- Cooler temperatures
- Reduced crowds
- Excellent trail conditions
- Stunning mountain scenery
For most visitors, late June through early September offers the best conditions for mountain biking in Portes Du Soleil.
