The Pass’Portes du Soleil 2021 Was One We Won't Forget!
About the Pass’Portes du Soleil 2021
Each year the Pass’Portes du Soleil marks the opening of the area’s full lift system and once again, it did not disappoint! The 17th edition of the event was held over the last two weekends, and we were so pleased to be in the centre of it here in Les Gets. The combination of 80km of varied routes, 1000-2450m of altitude, enthusiastic mountain bikers, breathtaking views, and tasty local produce made for an amazing long weekend that we won't soon forget.
It was a mountain biker's paradise, attracting riders from all over to join in the famous sporting weekend. Participants traversed a variety of picturesque trails (80km overall) using 13 lifts and stopping at frequent pit stops serving up our favourite local specialities… delicious!
Picture 1: Pass'Portes du Soleil MTB / Matthieu Vitré
The Trails
Having ridden these routes several times, we still can't believe how great they are. Although the trails are challenging, they are not too difficult, and mountain bikers of all levels will find them a pleasure to ride. As far as we are concerned, they are the best mountain biking trails in the world. We have ridden much of the UK as well as Canada, and nothing comes close.
The biking was possible in one day, but the event was spread over three days, so bikers could choose to participate on either Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, reducing any potential crowding. There were variations of the trails for those fitness enthusiasts who wished to cycle uphill or riders using an ebike.
You can find all the Pass'Portes MTB, ePass'Portes ePowered by Bosch and Pass'Portes pédestre courses by clicking here.
Picture 2: Pass'Portes du Soleil MTB / Sylvain Cochard
Participating from Les Gets
The weather was glorious, the mountain views were looking extra beautiful and the sound of Les Gets coming alive again floated through the valley. It was just what we needed to jumpstart the summer after what we can describe as a bit of a rocky winter.
This year, due to COVID restrictions, the Pass'Portes was only able to take place in the French municipalities of Portes du Soleil: Avoriaz, Châtel, Les Gets, Montriond-Les Lindarets, Morzine. This didn’t seem to matter or deter anyone from participating since these areas alone still offer a lot of ground to cover for bikers (and hikers, but we’ll get onto that in just a moment).
Over the two weekends, we were delighted to host some of the participants in our chalets and apartments in Les Gets. Since many of our properties are located on the slopes, and others just a short ride (or walk) away from the mountain lifts, it couldn't have been more convenient! Staying in Les Gets was also the perfect location for those who weren't participating in the event, but still wanted to experience its splendor and enjoy the beautiful alpine surroundings.
Picture 3: Pass'Portes du Soleil MTB / Matthieu Vitré
Who Took Part?
The Pass'Portes Kids
Not forgetting our mini bikers, the Pass’Portes Kids was available to 9-14 year olds. It was a special event supervised by trained instructors which started from Les Gets (as well as Morzine or Châtel) on Saturday and Sunday. It was great to see tiny budding mountain bikers with a big smile on their face ready to tear up the tracks. One day we’re sure we’ll see them leading the main event!
Picture 4: Pass'Portes du Soleil MTB / Sylvain Cochard
Pass’Portes Pedestre
The Pass'Portes du Soleil wasn’t just for mountain bikers, but also for pedestrians. Known as the Pass'Portes Pedestre, a walking pass was made available for those who prefer to explore on their own two feet.
Walkers could choose to join a guided trip or follow the signposts themselves starting from Les Gets (as well as Châtel or Montriond-Les Lindarets). The hike also allowed walkers to spot some of the local wildlife and learn about the Chablais Geopark, before stopping for some delicious food at local farms and restaurants, and perhaps even a cheeky drink or two. At these points, they were also able to meet up with mountain bikers in their holiday group since the routes ran parallel to the main event.
We had an unforgettable time kicking off summer with the Pass'Portes du Soleil 2021 here in Les Gets, so why not get ready for next summer and book up early? We’d love to have you!
Picture 5: Pass'Portes du Soleil MTB / Sylvain Cochard
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