Between the glaciers of the King of the Alps – Mont Blanc MTB Tour

If you’re passionate about off-roading, are looking for an unforgettable experience on your mountain bike and if you like to push yourself, then Mont Blanc MTB Tour is ideal.

In this Collection, I propose a 180-kilometre (111 mi) itinerary with a staggering amount of climbing compared to distance. With extreme gradients both up and downhill and no flat sections, you’ll clock up 8,000 metres (26,250 ft) of elevation gain.

The trail runs clockwise; I’ve divided it into four stages so you can enjoy the magnificent views over Alpine villages along the route. It gives you enough time to pause and admire breathtaking panoramas over Mont Blanc, the King of the Alps.

Although only a few days, this adventure takes you from Italy to France and into Swizerland. You’ll get to see huge glaciers up close from the saddle which is an opportunity to seize, especially given the rise in temperatue which is rapidly melting these ecosystems.

These Tours are only suitable for you if you’re experienced on two wheels and if you have good mountain bike technique. As you can imagine, they lead mostly along high mountain trails and forest roads.

Given the extreme environment, you need to prepare well and ensure you have all the necessary gear with you, as well as trained legs. Wear comfortable shoes with soles suitable for hike-a-bike and bring sufficient clothing to protect yourself from the frequent and common alpine storms during the summer. At these altitudes, temperatures can vary more than 20º C from day to night. Even in summer, the nights can drop to -10º C, so don’t skimp on your sleeping bag.

I recommend bringing enough water bottles or bags to carry at least 2 litres of water with you. You’ll find water along the way, but it’s infrequent and you don’t want to run out.

You should only take on this challenge in the summer season. As the weather conditions can vary on high mountains, it’s important to check the forecast carefully close to your departure date.

Out of respect for these fragile territories and so as not to contribute to global warming, I advise reaching the starting point by public transport rather than car. It’s easy to reach Courmayeur by train and a short bus ride from Milan and Turin. Get off the train at Chivasso-Aosta-Pré Saint Didier and catch the bus to Courmayeur – the times coincide with the train.

You can take your bicycle on the buses and trains. In short, no excuses!

Happy pedalling!