"Green Diamond" Circuit
Level: depends on the circuit.
Description: Nine resorts have got together to form a huge mountain bike loop known as the "Green Diamond" (Praz sur Arly, Megève, Combloux, Demi-Quartier, Flumet, Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, Saint-Gervais, La Giettaz and Contamines-Montjoie). Click here for further information:
http://www.diamantvert-vtt.com !
Cassioz - Rosière :
Level : beginners
Time : 1h30
Drop : 50 m
Description : An easy loop which is suitable for children (from 8 years) . No difficulty and only one short slope - the Varins. In peaceful surroundings, you will discover the banks of the river Arly, as well as the picturesque hamlet of Cassioz with its farms, bread oven and chapel.
La Tonnaz:
Level : beginners/intermediate
Time : 2h
Drop : 320 m
Description : This lovely ride on the south side will give you a superb panorama on the Mont-Blanc. On the climb up, you must stop in the hamlet of Tonnaz for several good reasons: this is where the village of Praz was born, many farms from the XVIth century are still in activity, and you can sample delicious Savoyard snacks at the Ferme des Violons. What more can you ask?
Le Grand Bois:
Level : beginners/intermediate
Time : 2h
Drop : 240 m
Description : The ride begins with an even climb on the road. It then goes through a pleasant little wood on an easy road, which will allow you to improve your biking skills. Don’t forget to buy a "tomme" (cheese) from François and Christiane Arvin-Bérod at the Béroude. They make it on the spot.
Le Gateau:
Level : advanced
Time : 2h
Drop : 650 m
Description : Splendid and very varied loop, both from the point of view of the scenery and the passages (torrents, technical descents, forest trails...). The view is magnificent and an orientation table will help you to get your bearings in the Gateau region. There are numerous mountains all around: the Mont-Blanc, Pierra Menta, Aravis , Mont -Charvin, etc. You must also stop at Bonne Fontaine. There you will find a chapel built on the spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.
Lac des Evettes:
Level : intermediate
Time : 2h30
Drop : 340 m
Description : This is an ideal circuit for those who want to improve their biking skills. The pine wood surroundings are very pleasant. The Evettes lake is an ideal place for a break. Lovely for picnics with other biking fanatics.
La Ronde Praline:
Level : advanced and experts
Time : 4h
Drop : 1000 m
Description : Named after the famous mountain bike race which takes place in mid-August. The drop is physically tiring, but what a ride! The panorama is superb, culminating at 1930 m. You also pass close by the Plan de l'Are refuge where you can take a well-deserved break. Definitely a challenge for bike lovers!
Ban Rouge:
Level : experts
Time : 4h
Drop : 1000 m
Description : One of the most beautiful bike rides in the region. The Ban Rouge (1983 m) is the very top of the Praz slopes. The view from up there is stunning. Look out for marmots when in the Butte area – there are masses of them. Even though it is a tough ride, you will be well rewarded with a variety of lovely scenery.
A lot of other trails exist in and around Praz sur Arly. Amongst others, crossing the crests between Praz and Megève is quite unforgettable. All these rides offer the most beautiful Alpine scenery, through spruce forests and lovely pastures. And all of it with the Mont-Blanc in the background!
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