The recent temperature increase across the Alps over the past couple of weeks has got our minds wandering to summer, and whilst there is still snow on the ground, Morzine locals have been spotted dusting off their mountain bikes and finding muddy tracks to play around on.
It may never have occurred to you to visit this area in the peak of summer, despite loving the mountains and what they have to offer during the winter. Being part of the Portes du Soleil, Morzine has easy access to 12 other resorts that surround it, meaning that there is just as much to discover here during the warmer months. One of the best ways to go about exploring at this time of year is by doing the Pass’Portes du Soleil. This summer will mark the 16th year of the event, which attracts locals and tourists from far and wide. On June 28th this year, thousands will gather for a weekend of touring around the Portes du Soleil either by walking or cycling. The mountain bike trails take you across France and Switzerland, lifting you from 1,000m to 2,500m in altitude. The trail takes you on 15 lifts, with 1,000m of total uphill climbing, and a leisurely 6,000m of downhill. Different trails will be marked for those wanting to avoid the lifts and take on more of the uphill.
As it is such a popular event, the rides have to be spread out over three days, making the route less busy and more enjoyable. To limit the number of participants, you must register to take part, and in doing so choose a certain day that you would like to ride, and the departure point you’d like to start from. If the departure point you want to select is not available for any reason, do not worry, there are nine starting points all within a short drive (or pedal) from one another. Registration has opened this month, so there are still plenty of spots up for grabs, but enter soon to guarantee your place. Due to the amount of organisation put into this weekend, there is a fee to enter. Prices this year are as follows: Adult Pass’Portes Pass – €54, kids pass – €23. To enter for a kids pass you must be between the ages of nine and 14 years old. The costs include your lift pass for the day you ride, registration number, food and refreshment stops with local specialities on offer, a PDS present, and a voucher for a free PDS lift pass to use in summer 2019 or during the 2019/20 winter season. The pedestrian pass costs €15.
