High Altitude Flow

Why you should go there: The regional nature park Queyras and its beautiful landscapes! This secluded region just south of Briancon has some of the best riding in the western alps. Intermediate to advanced mountainbikers will find fantastic flowy trails in a high alpine setting. The Queyras is a quiet region (at least in the fall) which feels refreshingly different from some of the popular biking hot-spots. The sheer beauty and the spectacular mountain ranges attracts outdoor enthusiast who prefer the wonders of nature over the bike exhibitions at the Bar Centrale in Finale or the Lenzerheide Bikepark… 😉

As the whole area is located at high altitude and some descents start as high as 3000 meters above sea level, it is recommended to visit in summer or fall. Especially during the main holiday season (Juli/August), you will be sharing the trails with a number of hikers. Also expect to run into herd protecting dogs that can be agressive. Follow the recommended guidelines and try to avoid going through sheep herds.

Who is it for: Skilled bikers who are into riding all natural trails in a high-alpine setting will find a little paradise with surprisingly flowy trails. If you bring enough fitness and don´t mind pushing or carrying your bike for a bit you can do some incredible epic backcountry tours.

Who should avoid it: Despite the often flowy trails smoothed by many hikers the region is not for absolute beginners. Frequent rocks, steeps, switchbacks and exposure in remote and rugged terrain require a certain routine on the bike. Also there is virtually no nightlife or places-to-be. If you like to see and be seen look elsewhere.

Trails

The “Stoneking Rally”, succesor of the famous Trans-Provence, is racing some stages in the Queyras. Adepts of the latter will know this means quality trails!

The area between Col d’Izoard in the north and Col Agnel in the south features all sorts of terrain. From coniferous forests lower down to rock and gravel desserts in the high regions above the treeline. The soil is often a nice mix of dirt and gravel and has good grip, even in wet conditions. In the higher areas you can find occasional rock gardens and slabs. We rode some trails in snowy and wet conditions and thought the grip was really good – exept for some root sections (not too surprising :-))

It is noteworthy that riding bikes on trails is officially tolerated in the Queyras nature park. Your behaviour on the trails contributes to maintaining the good coexistence on shared trails! Ride responsibly!