The best MTB trails around Rhêmes-Saint-Georges

Embark on the "Da Introd al Piccolo Monte Bianco – giro ad anello," a difficult mountain bike loop in Italy's Aosta Valley. This challenging route spans 14.6 miles (23.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4269 feet (1301 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete. You will start on paved sections from Introd, transitioning to beautiful dirt roads and singletrack as you climb through lush forests. The trail offers majestic views of the Alps, including the impressive Mont Blanc massif and other 4,000-meter peaks of Valle d'Aosta. Expect some very steep gradients, especially after Alpe Champromenty, where you might need to push your bike for short sections. The descent features an enjoyable series of switchbacks, providing a varied and rewarding riding experience.

This trail demands very good physical fitness and advanced technical riding skills. While some sections are pedalable, others, particularly around Champromenty, are very steep and may necessitate pushing your bike. The descent, though enjoyable with numerous switchbacks, can be technical and exposed in parts, requiring good downhill abilities. Plan your visit during favorable weather conditions to fully appreciate the panoramic vistas and challenging terrain.

What makes this trail notable are the truly spectacular views of the surrounding Alpine landscape, including prominent peaks of the Aosta Valley and the distant Mont Blanc. The route ventures into the beautiful Gran Paradiso National Park, adding to its natural appeal. Despite its demanding nature, both the strenuous climb and the technical descent are highly rewarding for experienced mountain bikers. The mix of asphalt, dirt roads, and singletrack through forests and alpine meadows provides a diverse riding experience.

Get ready for a difficult mountain biking challenge on the Salita al Lago Djouan da Eaux Rousses trail. This route covers 11.9 miles (19.1 km) with a significant 3395 feet (1035 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will start on well-maintained paths through larch woods, then encounter diverse terrain including mule tracks, gravel roads, and technical, rocky singletrack sections, especially in the upper reaches. The highlight is reaching Lago Djouan, a picturesque alpine lake often visited with nearby Lago Nero, surrounded by white cottongrass and offering views towards La Grivola. You will also pass through alpine pastures with wide blooming meadows. This trail is considered difficult, so be prepared for demanding conditions and technical sections. Some parts may even require you to push your bike. The route is within the Gran Paradiso National Park, ensuring a pristine natural environment. You will pass through a basin pasture around the former Royal Hunting House of Orvieille, adding a historical touch to your ride. Keep an eye out for wildlife like marmots and ungulates as you ascend through the Djouan lakes valley. A significant portion of the trail follows Alta Via n. 2, a well-established long-distance alpine trekking route, which means you are on a path known for its scenic beauty. This trail offers unforgettable high-mountain vistas and a journey through a historically rich and naturally diverse landscape.

This difficult 11.8-mile mountain biking trail to Mont Pailasse from Rhèmes Saint Georges offers challenging alpine riding and views.

This difficult 3.6-mile mountain biking trail to Lago di Pellaud offers technical terrain and scenic views in Gran Paradiso National Park.