The best gravel rides around Lac Supérieur de Fully

There are over 20 gravel bike trails around Lac Supérieur de Fully. The routes offer a range of challenges, with 16 considered difficult, 4 moderate, and 1 easy, catering to various skill levels.

The terrain around Lac Supérieur de Fully is characterized by stunning high-altitude alpine landscapes. You'll encounter dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, and lush pastures. Trails often wind through forests, along rocky ledges, and across scree fields, showcasing a diverse geology with crystalline rocks and limestone formations. Expect significant elevation changes and varied surfaces, ideal for gravel biking.

While many routes in the high alpine are challenging, you can find easier options, particularly those that stick to the valley floor or wider gravel paths. For example, the Saillon Medieval Village – Rhone Cycle Path in Valais loop from Fully is an easy 17.8-mile (28.7 km) trail that follows the Rhone Valley, offering a less strenuous ride suitable for families with older children or those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Many trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Valais Alps, including distant glimpses of Mont Blanc. The journey to Lac Supérieur de Fully itself passes by the lower Lac Inférieur de Fully and leads to the Cabane de Sorniot, a mountain hut that serves as a key resting point. The region's diverse geology, with crystalline rocks and limestone cliffs, also creates unique visual landmarks.

Yes, access to many trails often involves wider gravel paths leading to designated parking areas. For instance, the path from the Erié parking area towards Sorniot and the lakes of Fully is noted as being pleasant and wide, indicating accessible parking for starting your ride.

The best time for gravel biking in this high-altitude region is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (roughly June to October). During this period, snow has usually melted from higher elevations, and mountain huts like Cabane de Sorniot are open. Always check local conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as alpine weather can change rapidly.

Yes, particularly at higher elevations, the Cabane de Sorniot serves as a mountain hut offering food and overnight stays during the high season. At the alpine pasture of Sorniot, you can also purchase local cheese, butter, and sérac produced at the creamery. For more extensive options, you would need to descend to the villages in the valley.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the View of the Valais Alps – Saillon Medieval Village loop from Fully, which offers panoramic views and passes through the historic Saillon Medieval Village.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the diverse terrain that makes for an exciting gravel biking experience.

Yes, for those interested in natural water features, the Pissevache Waterfall – Pissevache Waterfall loop from Evionnaz is a challenging 42.7-kilometer (26.5-mile) route that specifically highlights the impressive Pissevache Waterfall.

One of the most challenging routes is the Col de la Croix de Cœur – Verbier loop from Mazembroz. This difficult 44.6-mile (71.7 km) path involves significant elevation gain, ascending to the high mountain pass of Col de la Croix de Cœur and offering extensive alpine scenery.

While direct public transport to the highest trailheads near Lac Supérieur de Fully might be limited, you can typically reach the broader Valais region and its valley towns by train or bus. From there, you might need to cycle or arrange local transport to reach specific starting points for the gravel trails.

Many trails in the Valais region are generally dog-friendly, especially those shared with hikers. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, particularly in alpine pastures where livestock may be present, and to check for any specific local regulations or protected areas that might restrict access for dogs. Ensure your dog is fit for the challenging terrain and elevation.