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France
Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur
Provence
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Briançon

Vars

The best MTB trails around Vars

4.5

(46)

464

riders

22

rides

Mountain biking around Vars is characterized by its diverse Alpine terrain, featuring high mountain passes, extensive forests, and scenic valleys. The region is nestled within the Hautes-Alpes, offering routes that traverse elevations up to 2,580 meters. Riders can explore a network of trails that wind through natural singletrack, open meadows, and shaded forest sections. High-altitude lakes and panoramic ridges provide distinct natural features throughout the area.

Best mountain bike trails around Vars

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Lake…

Last updated: May 4, 2026

4.9

(22)

154

riders

#1.

Lake Peyrol – Lac de Chabrieres loop from Vars

43.3km

04:36

1,530m

1,540m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Hard

4.3

(3)

46

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

4.3

(3)

30

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Popular around Vars

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Rough and tough – spectacular gravel loops in the Alps

Cycling Collection by

Diana

Tips from the Community

Cyrilleoxybike
August 15, 2025, La porte du paradis

beautiful accessible pass then superb descent into the Val d'Escreins

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The small path that goes into the larches first offers a magnificent panorama then when you attack the balcony you let yourself go to the pleasure of mountain biking with a very clean single, flow and not exposed ... to do and redo!

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This little haven of peace is located in the Val d'Escreins, in the Queyras regional park. You can stop there for a night or stay longer to explore the surroundings. You can also stop for a gourmet break (traditional local cuisine, homemade pastries). All information on opening dates and for reservations can be found on the website https://www.refuge-basserua.fr/

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Very suggestive landscape with the lake as a completion

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Artificial lake but with beautiful colors

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Enbicia2
July 4, 2024, Lac de Peyrol

Beautiful natural emerald lake.

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It reaches above 2000 m. Views are wonderful.

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Fabrizio Garofolo
June 30, 2024, Vars

Ideal village for practicing summer and winter sports.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Vars?

Vars offers an extensive network of mountain bike trails. The Bike Park alone boasts over 200 kilometers of trails, catering to various disciplines like downhill, enduro, and cross-country. On komoot, you'll find 22 curated mountain bike tours in the region, ranging from easy to difficult.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Vars?

The summer season is ideal for mountain biking in Vars. During this time, ski lifts like the Sainte-Marie and Peyrol chairlifts are open, providing easy access to higher trails and maximizing your riding time. The region enjoys a lively summer atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Vars?

Yes, Vars offers trails suitable for beginners and families. The Bike Park includes green and blue-graded trails, as well as dedicated 'Kid Zones' with wooden modules for mini-riders. These areas are designed to help new riders hone their skills in a safe environment. On komoot, you can find 2 easy mountain bike tours.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Vars?

Vars' mountain bike trails feature incredibly diverse terrain. You can expect everything from technical forest runs and natural singletrack to open meadows and scenic ridges. The region is known for its natural feel, with less manicured trails, offering a mix of challenging climbs and descents through varied mountain landscapes.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Vars?

Yes, many routes in Vars are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Lake Peyrol – Saluces Pass loop from Vars is a challenging 41 km route that takes you through varied mountain landscapes and past high-altitude lakes.

What natural features or landmarks can I see while mountain biking in Vars?

Vars is rich in natural beauty. You can ride past high-altitude lakes such as Lac Peyrol, Lac de l'étoile, and Lac Chabrières. The iconic Col de Vars offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and massifs. The Val d'Escreins natural reserve, with its crystal-clear water and stunning waterfalls, is also nearby. You might also encounter the Mirror Lake or the Lake of Nine Colours.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Absolutely. Vars is well-regarded by experienced riders, especially for enduro and all-mountain disciplines. The Bike Park features red and black-graded trails, including the historic 'Taillefer' trail known for its fast sections and technical challenges. On komoot, you'll find 7 difficult mountain bike tours, such as the Col de Vars, 2109 m – Lake Peyrol loop from Vars, which includes the iconic Col de Vars.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Vars?

The komoot community highly rates mountain biking in Vars, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse Alpine terrain, the extensive network of trails, and the breathtaking natural beauty, including high mountain passes, extensive forests, and scenic valleys. The natural feel of the trails, less manicured than in some other resorts, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Are there any long-distance mountain bike descents in Vars?

Yes, Vars is famous for its epic long descents. A notable attraction is the 32-kilometer descent from the summit of La Mayt (2580m) down to Embrun and the shores of Lake Serre-Ponçon. This route offers an impressive 1800-meter vertical drop, primarily through forests with occasional panoramic breaks.

Can I access mountain bike trails using public transport or are there specific parking areas?

While the region research highlights the accessibility of trails via ski lifts during summer, specific details on public transport directly to trailheads are not provided. However, Vars is a resort, and parking facilities are generally available within the village areas to access the Bike Park and other trail networks. For routes like the Lac de Chabrieres – Vars loop from Le Hameau, starting points are often accessible from local hamlets.

Are there any routes that take me over high mountain passes?

Yes, Vars is known for its high mountain passes. The Col de Vars (2,109 m) – Col de Vars loop from Vars is a challenging 45.5 km trail that leads through high mountain passes and forests, offering stunning views and a significant elevation gain. The Col de Vars itself is a mythical route for cyclists, featured many times in the Tour de France.

What other outdoor activities can I combine with mountain biking in Vars?

Vars offers a wide array of complementary outdoor activities. You can explore an extensive network of hiking trails, try thrilling rides like rail tobogganing or the Vars Mountain Kart, or engage in climbing, via ferrata, and accrobranche. Water sports like rafting and paragliding are also available through local partners, allowing you to experience the mountains from different perspectives.

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