Verbier is the perfect e-biking playground. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned rider, the region offers a host of options with breathtaking scenery stretching from Verbier down to the floor of the Bagnes Valley. E-bikes have levelled the mountain biking playing field, meeting the expectations of keen athletes and those who prefer a more leisurely pace.
Sport or leisure
Having ridden a mountain bike from a young age, I was convinced that e-biking wasn’t my thing. I’d rather pedal with all the might of my calf muscles to maximise my cardio. Naturally curious, I still decided to try out an e-bike – what did I have to lose? As soon as I started pedalling, I was immediately converted, and just a few days later, I had bought my first e-bike. Now, I find it hard to go back to a traditional mountain bike.
Just a few minutes after leaving work, I can ride my e-bike into the hills of Verbier and explore new technical routes, both uphill and down, which never used to be an option simply due to a lack of time. This sport has also given me the opportunity to share fantastic rides with my friends and family who don’t usually go mountain biking. I’d compare it to a day of skiing among friends with a scenic ride, a meal and an aperitif in between. That’s what I enjoy about e-biking: you can focus on the athletic side if you want to exert yourself or you can take a more leisurely approach, mixing culinary treats with pleasure. One day, cycling might just be as popular as skiing in winter. Who knows?
It is also important to note that the resort boasts a huge number of trails, the majority of which are equipped with charging stations. You should also know that Verbier and the surrounding region are the perfect destination for this sport and mountain biking in general, as the resort is also home to a top-class bike park. Furthermore, several sports shops have e-bikes for hire and for sale.
My top two trails
Given the number of options on offer in the region, it is difficult to pick a favourite because I have so many. That being said, I will tell you about two rides that I’m particularly fond of.
These two rides offer unique experiences, whether you’re looking for a sporting challenge or a treat for your eyes and your taste buds. With numerous trail options and first-rate amenities, Verbier is without doubt the number one destination for e-bike fans.
Tour du Mont-Fort
I love this ride because it takes you along routes and trails that you can ski down in the winter with a spectacular section at the foot of Mont-Fort as well as the Japanese garden in Siviez for a spot of tranquillity. This 59km route begins in Verbier, heading down through La Tzoumaz and then on to Nendaz and Col des Gentianes before returning to the resort.
This trail offers an easier option using several ski lifts to conserve battery power, as well as a more demanding option without ski lifts (except for the cable car to Les Gentianes which is unavoidable). In either case, it’ll take a good part of the day to complete the trail. Personally, I enjoy having a coffee at La Croix-de-Cœur restaurant, so I can take in the fantastic view from the terrace overlooking the resort.
In terms of food, there are beautiful spots all along the trail for a picnic. There are also several restaurants where you can recharge. My top tip: Black Tap and its burgers at Col des Gentianes.
Cabane de Chanrion
What better way to discover Upper Val de Bagnes than on this ride? Starting from either Verbier (64km round trip) or the Mauvoisin Dam for a shorter ride to save battery power, this route explores the floor of the Bagnes Valley, passing through beautiful villages such as Bonatchiesse and Plamproz. Once you reach the impressive Mauvoisin Dam, you’ll follow a road along the dam’s stunning lake through tunnels and past waterfalls.
At the end of the lake, there is a scenic climb in view of the glaciers, culminating at the Cabane de Chanrion for a well-deserved drink and meal. The return journey goes back along the same route, and if your battery is running low, you can always head to Le Châble and take the Le Châble-Verbier cable car back to Verbier.
E-Bike Festival
Verbier is famous for its e-biking, partly due to its annual festival held in mid-August. This four-day event is open to everyone to try out the latest generation of e-bikes. There are also gourmet trails to enjoy, so you can explore the region while savouring local delicacies. If you’re looking for something more challenging, you can compete in e-bike races for both amateurs and professionals.
See you in Verbier this summer!
In short, I can’t wait to see you in Verbier this summer for some unforgettable e-bike adventures! Whether you’re a keen mountain biker or you just want to give it a try for the first time, Verbier has everything you’re looking for and more. Visit the E-Bike Festival to test the latest models, go on a gourmet trail or challenge yourself to an e-bike race. Come and have some sporting fun in a spectacular setting. See you soon on the trails of Verbier!
