For the road bike:
Ideal training area because we're on the edge of the high mountain’s. Directly north of us, towards Lake Geneva, a nearly Ardennes-like area with passes of about 7 km long and 1200 meters altitude but also rolling terrain and short steep climbs on and off. For days with doubtful weather a terrain and an altitude where it not immediately has to be very cold. To the south high cols and the ski resorts of Flaine and Avoriaz to climb, with famous names such as the Joux Plane, Joux Verte, Col de la Colombière, Col de Romme and the Col de la Ramaz. All of which appeared in the Tour de France and Dauphine Liberé. Climbs up to 1800 meter height and 21 km long in a beautiful landscape with in the background the Mont Blanc massif!
Another big advantage over areas ‘deeper’ in the Alps is that you can do a lot of tours/laps instead of going up and down the same road. From 35 km’s and in different combinations for as long as you want.
Mountain bike:
The Portes du Soleil, one of the most famous mountain biking areas in Europe. Whether you like downhill or Cross Country. The infrastructure and experience of the area make it truly the Mecca of mountain biking.
450 km of marked tracks/routes of different difficulties, 10 permanent downhill runs, 4 bike parks, 24 lifts open.
In Morzine there are 8 bike shops that rent good equipment and they have parts in stock in case of breakdown.
A big annual event is the PASS PORTES DU SOLEIL. Thousands of participants ride laps of different lengths throughout the Portes du Soleil with stamp posts, food and drink and all in a fantastic atmosphere.
Check out www.passportesdusoleil.com for more info.