Escape from the valley

The trails straight above Chamonix are amazing, but generally steep and tech, with roots and rocks abounding. After some pretty wet weather had passed through it seemed a better idea to ride some more flowing singletrack whilst the rocks and roots dried out. We headed down the valley past Vaudagne and out to Servoz to start the long road climb up to the Lac Vert car park. The views help take your mind off the legs and the promise of a rest at the fountain in the middle of the road at Le Mont keeps you going. Alas, the fountain is no more, so remember to fill up the water bottle in Servoz!

The descent of Les Trois Gouillies was as good as ever, though possibly a bit slippier than ideal for those who were dropping the trail for the first time…. There’s a plethora of trails to choose from, the new Chamonix Bike Book give probably the best line if you’re not sure where you’re going.

From the old Servoz road we kept going down to Chedde and Le Fayet for a coffee before catching the train back up to Chamonix. The various free passes for transport don’t work after Servoz, so make sure you get your ticket before getting on the train, it’s much cheaper!

Back in Chamonix the increased bike traffic is helping to clear the worst of the winter’s loose rocks off the bike trails making things a bit more consistent, although you still canny take your bike up the Index chair due the amount of snow still up there.