Beyond the Trails

Valais is a vast playground for mountain bikers. With perfectly marked routes, breathtaking alpine passes, and an extensive network of spectacular trails, it offers an unparalleled experience for riders of all levels. Whether you’re tackling high-altitude singletrack, flowing through scenic valleys, or testing your endurance on legendary climbs, the region provides endless opportunities to explore on two wheels.

Beyond its incredible trails, Valais is a region shaped by its alpine culture, deep-rooted history, and warm hospitality. Traditional mountain villages, with their wooden chalets and time-honoured customs, offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained closely connected to the land for generations. Local cuisine is just as much a part of the experience, with specialties like Raclette du Valais, air-dried meats, and hearty rye bread providing the perfect fuel for long days on the bike. And after a day in the mountains, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a thermal bath, sharing a meal with fellow riders, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of the Alps. In Valais, the adventure continues long after you step off the bike.

And in 2025, Valais takes centre stage as the host of the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. This prestigious event will bring together the world’s best riders to test their skills on some of the most demanding and scenic courses on the planet. But, beyond the competition, Valais is a place where trails come in every shape and form – offering everything from fast, flowing singletrack to steep technical descents, with many trails adaptable to different skill levels. The diversity of routes allows beginners, experts and e-bike enthusiasts alike to enjoy the ride, whether they’re just starting out or experienced riders.

To get a true sense of the region’s riding culture, alongside our journey on the seven-stage Alpine Bike Route, we set out to explore the diversity of trails in Valais with local pros and enthusiasts. From a vast network of natural trails, pristine flowtrails, and technical downhill courses, there are so many options to test your skills – and have a blast doing it. From high-alpine ridgelines to deep valley descents as well as beginner-friendly routes for the less hardcore, Valais is home to some of the most varied and exhilarating riding in the world.

Aletsch Arena: Glacier Biking and Breathtaking Views

Aletsch Arena is a high-altitude biking destination, home to the longest glacier in the Alps and an extensive network of trails. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and, further dialling in the MTB credibility, home to the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro, E-Enduro, and E-Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Championships. We started our day early, meeting our local expert guide Matthias Hilfiker, and boarded the cable car to reach the glacier viewpoints above Riederalp. The sun was just beginning to break through the morning mist, casting long shadows over the ice field below.

The ride down from Bettmeralp took us along dramatic singletrack that hugged the edge of the mountain, with switchbacks offering thrilling and quite technical descents. Every turn revealed more of the vast glacier landscape stretching toward the horizon. The sheer scale of the Aletsch Glacier humbled us, and biking here felt like riding through an ancient world thanks to the cool air, the crunch of the rocky path under our tyres, and what we hoped was an ibex standing proud on a high ridge.

At the Moosfluh Viewpoint we took a break to take in the view. The Aletsch Glacier, a 20km-long stream of ice looking for all the world like a frozen river, curved through the valley, a reminder of the power and scale of the Alps. Standing there, it was clear that mountain biking here is more than just a ride – it’s about experiencing the landscape from a unique perspective, combining dynamic fluidity and speed with high vantage points only the self-powered can reach.

Mountain biking highlights:

Glacier biking trails: Ride along breathtaking trails where the ice-covered landscape stretches endlessly beneath towering peaks.
Riederalp to Bettmeralp descent: This is a flowing route that offers both technical sections and panoramic alpine views.
Viewpoint Hohfluh: Take a moment to soak in the scenery at Viewpoint Hohfluh, where the vast Aletsch Glacier unfolds in all its majestic beauty.

Off the Bike: Take the Moosfluh cable car to one of the best viewpoints of the Aletsch Glacier.
Where to Stay: Hotel Garni Sporting in Bettmeralp is a perfect base for your alpine biking adventures.
Where to Eat: Refuel with dinner at Restaurant Alpfrieden, where a huge range of local Swiss cuisine is on the menu.

Bellwald: Big Air with Gregor Jolliffe

After lunch at Alpfrieden (Röstis for the team, of course!), we crossed the Rhône River toward Bellwald, where the trails promised a mix of fun, progression, and challenge. The park has a well-earned reputation as a go-to destination for mountain bikers of all abilities, with routes designed for beginners, families, and advanced riders alike. Whether you’re learning the basics or pushing the limits of speed and airtime, there’s a trail to match your style. And Bellwald has been chosen as one of the venues for 2025’s key MTB events, alongside nearby Aletsch Arena; the UCI Mountain Bike Enduro, E-Enduro, and E-Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Championships will provide an irresistible draw for mountain bikers.

We met Scottish trail builder Gregor Jolliffe at the lift station, eager to explore the variety Bellwald has to offer. Our first run took us on a flowing descent through forested terrain, perfect for warming up and getting a feel for the trails. And then it was time for the jumps! Gregor wasted no time demonstrating just how much air could be gained using Bellwald’s diverse mix of natural and built features. Watching him launch high above the treeline was both awe-inspiring and slightly terrifying.

The park itself is set in an alpine forest, with rugged cliffs towering in the distance and rolling green pastures just beyond the trail. After an adrenaline-fuelled afternoon, we took a moment to enjoy the stillness of the mountains, standing at the top of the park as the late-afternoon light cast long shadows over the valley.

By the time we packed up, we were tired but exhilarated. Bellwald is not just a playground for experts, but a destination where every rider, from first-timer to pro, can find their perfect line and experience the best of mountain biking in Valais.

Mountain biking highlights:

Lord of the Rims Trail: Test your skills on this exciting new World Cup course, designed to challenge even the best riders.
Forest Bump trails: A trail designed around having fun! The trail can be ridden with little mountain biking experience but also offers the opportunity to test and advance your skills.
Bellwald Bike Park jumps: Send it on Bellwald’s famous jump lines, perfect for riders looking to catch big air and push their limits.

Off the Bike: Take a stroll around the local village, featuring sun-tanned wooden houses and barns unique to the Valais region.
Where to Stay: Bike Hotel Bellwald is a cyclist-friendly base perfectly located for easy access to the trails. It’s also a great place to enjoy a meal with fellow riders and share stories from the day.

Verbier: Flow and Freeride with Ludo May

We were excited to experience Verbier in summer. Having visited in winter for skiing, we knew the landscape would be spectacular, but we hadn’t yet seen what the region had to offer on two wheels. Verbier is a true mountain playground, with a vast lift-accessed trail network, scenic alpine routes, and a lively village that blends outdoor adventure with Swiss hospitality. The 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country Marathon World Championships come to Verbier in September 2025.

We met up with Ludo May, a professional rider and local expert, who guided us onto the way to La Chaux trail (Tsenelle Trail). This long, flowing descent was the perfect introduction to the area, winding through alpine meadows and open ridgelines, with sweeping mountain views in every direction. The trail could be taken at a relaxed pace or ridden more dynamically, as Ludo expertly demonstrated – one of the many reasons Verbier is a great destination for all types of riders.

With plenty of trails to choose from, we spent the afternoon exploring a mix of routes, switching between fast, rolling descents, high-altitude singletrack, and gentler trails that let us take in the scenery. The lift network made accessing the best trails effortless, allowing us to cover a huge amount of terrain without long, exhausting climbs. Whether looking for a laid-back ride, a technical challenge, or a big mountain adventure, Verbier offers something for everyone.

As we rolled back into the village, we took time to enjoy Verbier itself – a vibrant alpine hub with cafés, shops, and a relaxed post-ride atmosphere. Verbier had delivered the ultimate mix of playfulness and challenge, and riding with Ludo was an absolute treat and an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re here to ride, hike, or simply enjoy the mountain views, Verbier feels like a place where the adventure never stops.

Mountain biking highlights:

Flowtrail Tsenelle: Cruise down one of Verbier’s most scenic flowtrails, packed with smooth berms and rolling terrain for the ultimate ride.
Bike park: Challenge yourself on Verbier’s expert-level bike park lines, where precision and skill take centre stage.

Off the Bike: Take the gondola to Mont Fort for a panoramic view of the Alps stretching as far as Mont Blanc.
Where to Stay: Unwind at Hotel Mirabeau – a Bike Hotel that’s a cozy base in the heart of the town.
Where to Eat: Restaurant L’Ecurie is a great venue for sharing post-ride stories while enjoying a glass of white wine such as Johannisberg, made from a typical grape variety of Valais.

Crans-Montana: High-Alpine Riding and Competitive Downhill Trails

Crans-Montana is a town tucked away high in the mountains, easily accessible by funicular from the valley. It offers a mix of panoramic beauty, thrilling trails, and a vibrant cycling culture. We started our ride with a moment to take in the view – an incredible vista of 18 4,000m peaks, including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. The sky was a deep blue, the air crisp, and the anticipation high as we clipped into our pedals and rolled onto the trails.

The first section took us through alpine meadows, where the scent of wildflowers mixed with the cool mountain air. We followed winding singletrack past grazing cows and wooden chalets, the scenery opening up to reveal the breathtaking Tièche waterfall.

While we spent most of our time exploring the scenic singletrack of the Valais Alpine Bike Route, Crans-Montana is also renowned for its extensive cross-country trail network, offering riders a mix of fast-rolling sections, punchy climbs, and flowing descents. As part of the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, it will host the Mountain Bike Cross-Country Olympic events, bringing the world’s best endurance riders to race on a purpose-built course. The terrain here is varied and dynamic, designed to test both speed and technical ability, winding through forests, open alpine landscapes, and past iconic Valais viewpoints.

We ended the day with a well-earned meal at Café du Centre, where we met up with Julien Paganelli, a Swiss Cycling Guide. Over some fantastic local cuisine and wines, we discussed the evolving mountain biking scene in Switzerland, the future of trail development, and how Valais continues to set the standard for world-class riding.

Mountain biking highlights:

Panoramic high-altitude singletrack: Ride along breathtaking trails with sweeping views of 18 peaks over 4,000m, including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.
La Tièche and its waterfall-fed stream: Cruise through alpine meadows and past glacial streams, soaking in the raw beauty of the high mountains.
World-class downhill trails: Watch elite riders take on Crans-Montana’s legendary downhill courses, or challenge yourself on sections of these expertly designed tracks.

Off the Bike: At the end of the day, we recommend a trip to the wake park for some fun in the water and a cocktail at the Beach Club.
Where to Stay: Stay at one of the seven bike hotels within the destination.
Where to Eat: Share your best riding stories over a delicious meal at one of the 130 restaurants and bars in Crans-Montana, and try out Assiette Valaisanne – a local speciality consisting of cured meats, air-dried beef (viande séchée), local cheeses, and rye bread.

Val d’Anniviers: Alpine Riding at its Best

Our day began in Zinal, a quiet mountain town deep in the Val d’Anniviers. The trail climbed steadily from here, leading us higher into the alpine wilderness. There was a peaceful solitude to this part of the ride, the only sounds being the crunch of tyres on dirt and the occasional whistle of the wind through a fissure in the rocks.

At the highest point of the climb, we took a moment to soak in the view. We were early in the season with some snow lingering on sections of the high trail. And then came the descent – which proved to be one of the highlights of the entire trip. The singletrack snaked down through the mountains, a perfect blend of flow and technical sections. Some parts allowed us to pick up speed, leaning into the berms and letting momentum carry us forward, while others required more precise handling, with tight switchbacks and root-laced sections keeping us on our toes.

As we dropped into Grimentz, the landscape softened, giving way to rolling pastures and wooden barns that looked as though they had stood for centuries. We coasted into the village, our tyres crunching on cobbled streets as we made our way to the village centre. It was the kind of place that invited you to linger, to slow down and soak in the history and atmosphere.

Grimentz is also a key venue for the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country Marathon World Championships, with riders set to test their endurance and technical skills on trails as they race from Verbier to Grimentz on the Grand Raid track. Seeing these trails first-hand gave us a new appreciation for just how demanding the race will be. The high-altitude routes and fast descents make this an ideal location for both competitive and recreational riders alike.

Mountain biking highlights:

Steady climb from Zinal with stunning alpine views: Start your ride with an breathtaking (literally!) ascent, where every pedal stroke reveals more of the Valais Alps.
Fast, flowing singletrack descent into Grimentz: Drop into an exhilarating descent, weaving through alpine terrain on smooth, flowing trails all the way to the valley floor.

Off the Bike: Take a stroll through Grimentz’s historic streets, visit the local museum, or hike to the Moiry Glacier for one last breathtaking alpine view.
Where to Stay: Rest up at Hotel Alpina, Grimentz, a cozy mountain retreat perfect for unwinding.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a hearty, traditional meal such as Raclette du Valais (melted cheese served with potatoes, silverskin onions, and small pickled gherkins) at Restaurant de Moiry, where the warm atmosphere makes for the perfect end to the day.

Region Dents du Midi: A Morning of Precision and Speed

We arrived early in Region Dents du Midi, the swiss side of Portes du Soleil, and were greeted by crisp mountain air and the imposing Dents du Midi peaks towering above us. This area is famous for its bike park, with a reputation for fast, technical riding that tests even the best riders – especially the legendary World Cup track.

Our guide for the morning, Rich Powers, met us at the lift station in Champéry, where we loaded our bikes onto the gondola bound for Croix-de-Culet. Rich came armed with a serious enduro bike with huge springs and suspension travel so we knew we were about to be shown the ropes! The ascent provided a perfect chance to take in the scale of the landscape – rugged peaks, dense forests, and a network of trails snaking through the valley below.

At the top, we wasted no time dropping into the trails. The morning was all about precision and speed, carving through berms, navigating rock gardens, and hitting jumps with confidence. Les Crosets via Pointe des Mossettes – on the French-Swiss border and the highest point of Portes du Soleil MTB area (2’277m) – challenged us with more than 480m of elevation. The highlight was following Rich as he descended a section of the famous World Cup track – steep (and wow it was steep!), technical, and demanding full commitment.

The final stretch brought us back into the valley with adrenaline pumping. The bike park at Region Dents du Midi lived up to its reputation: fast, technical, and thrilling from top to bottom.

Mountain biking highlights:

High-speed technical trails in the bike park: Carve through some of the most exciting and challenging trails in the Alps, including Les Crosets via Pointe des Mossettes and many more.
Lift-assisted runs from Champéry to Croix-de-Culet: Take the lift up and enjoy fabulous views and a mix of flowing and technical descents.
Riding the legendary World Cup track: Experience the infamous Champéry World Cup downhill track, one of the steepest and most technical race courses in mountain bike history. This course will be ridden again for the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Championships for the downhill races.

Off the Bike: Explore 800km of hiking trails in the Portes du Soleil, between Switzerland and France. Discover an extensive network of trails winding through alpine meadows, forests, and panoramic ridgelines, offering a different perspective on the mountains.
Where to Stay: Relax at Hotel L’Étable, Les Crosets, a stylish alpine escape with easy access to the trails.
Where to Eat: J Steakhouse is the perfect spot to dig into a delicious meal after an action-packed day of riding.

Zermatt: Flowtrails Beneath the Matterhorn

And finally on to Zermatt – one of the most awe-inspiring places to ride a bike. As our train climbed from Täsch into Zermatt, the unmistakable peak of the Matterhorn appeared, framed perfectly between the valley walls. The energy of the town was buzzing with early-season tourists and fellow mountain bikers ready to hit the trails. In September 2025 Zermatt will host the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country Short Track World Championships, but there are countless reasons to head here with your bike from the moment the snow melts.

Our first stop was the Moos Flowtrail, a perfect warm-up designed to carve effortlessly through alpine meadows, offering long, sweeping turns and a playful rhythm. The beauty of this trail is its accessibility – perfect for beginners yet entertaining enough for seasoned riders to let loose.

Nearby is the Sunnegga funicular up to access the flowtrail – a faster, more thrilling ride that twisted down towards the valley, where we found ourselves flying between trees and over wooden bridges. Following our bikers Cornelius and Laura, we could see just how much time they had spent on these trails, their flow smooth and controlled. The sensation of speed combined with the gorgeous alpine views made for an unforgettable ride.

But Zermatt is more than just trails – it’s a place steeped in history. After our morning on the bikes, we sampled the region’s culinary delights in the form of Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake). Then we took time to explore the town itself. Rolling through the historic centre, we passed traditional wooden huts and hotels, charming cobbled streets, and evidence of Zermatt’s mountaineering heritage – including the plaque commemorating Lucy Walker, first to climb the Matterhorn. And one of the unexpected highlights of the day was spotting the famous Valais Blacknose sheep. These fluffy, curly-horned sheep are iconic in the region, and seeing them grazing just on the edge of town was a great surprise.

As the day wound down, we took a moment to sit by Schalisee, the small alpine lake near the new skills park in Täsch, letting the sun warm our backs. The water was still, reflecting the peaks above like a perfect mirror. It was a reminder that mountain biking here is more than just riding – it’s about immersing yourself in the landscape, in the community, and in the rhythm of the mountains.

Mountain biking highlights:

Moos Flowtrail: A perfect warm-up ride, this smooth and flowing trail winds through alpine meadows with jaw-dropping Matterhorn views.
Sunnegga Flowtrail: Pick up speed on this thrilling descent, twisting down towards the valley with berms, wooden bridges, and incredible scenery.
Bike Zone Schali (Täsch): Test your skills on jumps, berms, and rollers in this fun, progression-focused skills park.

Off the Bike: Stroll to the Gorner Gorge, where wooden walkways wind through steep rock walls above crystal-clear glacial waters.
Where to Stay: Rest up at Hotel Butterfly, Zermatt, just minutes from the trails and mountain adventures.
Where to Eat: Try out Restaurant Schäferstube – a cozy, wood-panelled restaurant popular with hikers and bikers, known for its locally sourced lamb dishes and classic Valais specialties like Raclette.

Valais Alpine Bike

Beyond the destinations we explored, Valais offers even more for mountain bikers. Leukerbad combines flowing singletrack with the chance to relax in its thermal baths – a great way to unwind after a long day on the trails. Brig, with its historic town and mountain views, is a perfect starting point for rides that climb high into the Alps. The remote valley of Lötschental feels wild and untouched, with technical descents and forest trails that offer a different side to riding in Valais. Further along the Valais Alpine Bike Route, places like Unterbäch, Moosalp, and Val d’Anniviers provide more chances to explore, each with its own mix of scenery, trails, and local character. Whether it’s high-altitude ridge riding, forest singletrack, or quiet valley trails, there’s always more to discover.

For the full guide to these destinations, check our Alpine Bike Guide.

UCI Mountain Bike World Championships

From August 30th to September 14th, 2025, Valais will take centre stage as host of the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, bringing together the best riders from around the globe. Over two weeks of intense competition, the world’s elite will tackle the same terrain we explored – proving that Valais is more than just a beautiful biking destination; it’s a true test of skill, endurance, and precision.

From the fast-paced cross-country battles in Crans-Montana to the adrenaline-fuelled downhill event in Champéry, every discipline will find its perfect stage. The enduro races will weave through the diverse trails of Valais, highlighting the mix of technical descents and alpine flow that make this region so special. Meanwhile, e-Bike and marathon riders will push their limits across rugged, high-altitude landscapes, showcasing the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps.

For riders and spectators alike, Valais 2025 will be an unmissable celebration of mountain biking. Whether you’re here to compete, watch the pros in action, or ride the very same trails, the event will cement Valais as one of the greatest biking destinations in the world.

For more information about the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, visit www.valais2025.ch

The Essence of Valais Biking

But what makes Valais special isn’t just the variety of trails or the exceptional scenery – it’s the way mountain biking is ingrained in the region’s identity. The seamless transport network, the accessibility of lifts, and the well-maintained trails make it easy for riders of all levels to explore the mountains. Whether it’s tackling a high-speed flowtrail in Zermatt, taking in the glacier views at Aletsch Arena, or riding the legendary World Cup tracks in Region Dents du Midi, every turn of the pedals brings a new adventure. There is a sense in Valais, too, of a mutual harmonious coexistence between all users of these trails – forest and mountain, by bike and on foot, respecting the natural environment while seeking adventure.

As we packed up our bikes and looked back at the towering peaks, one thing was certain – we would be back. The mountains of Valais aren’t just a destination; they’re a feeling, a way of life, and a place that keeps calling you home.

Don’t forget to reserve a place for your mountain bike on the SBB app or on sbb.ch.
For more information about Valais: visitvalais.ch/bike

USEFUL RESOURCES

Valais Alpine Bike stages: visitvalais.ch/valaisalpinebike-tour
To book the Valais Alpine Bike offer: visitvalais.ch/shop-valaisalpinebike
Valais Mountain bike routes: valais.ch/en/activities/mountain-bike/tours
Bicycle reservations are mandatory, book your place in advance: SBB app or on sbb.ch.
Share the Trails: visitvalais.ch/coexistence