French Alps
A low-down on our high-altitude highlights: which sports events to watch, when and where. Whether you're a spectator or a competitor, read below for a list of our recommended summertime events, and find out where to stay near the action.
Date posted: 04 April 2025, 5:30pm
Article length: 5 minutes
Les Gets (Exact venues to be announced at a later date) | 21-31 August 2025
A cornerstone of the global MTB calendar, Les Gets will host the UCI Mountain Bike World Series again. Expect elite downhill and cross-country riders, an electrifying atmosphere, and a village that lives and breathes cycling. A must for fans of speed, skill and gravity-defying descents.
Stay here: Apartment Edelweiss
Come live the excitement
Across Portes du Soleil resorts (Chatel & Morzine included) | 27–29 June 2025
Part trail ride, part mountain celebration, the Pass'Portes is a unique experience that takes riders through 80 km of alpine terrain across France and Switzerland. It combines panoramic views at high altitudes and the best of the Portes du Soleil bike parks, promising an adventure like no other.
Stay here: Chalet Bellatrix
Your journey starts here
Morzine | 4–6 July 2025
The Spartan Ultra World Championship is not for the faint of heart. It's an obstacle race known as the toughest on the planet, with steep climbs, icy rivers, and relentless endurance challenges, all set against the beauty of the Morzine peaks. Whether you run or cheer at the finish line, the energy is palpable, and the spirit of overcoming challenges is truly inspiring.
Stay here: Chalet Kerasia
Extreme challenge, extreme reward
Morzine | 4-6 September 2025
As summer comes to an end, the fun doesn't stop in Morzine. At the beginning of September, the Mont Blanc Rally descends on the region with one of its stages of the French Automobile championship. Come for the races and to check out some of the vintage and historic cars on display.
Stay here: Chalet Marguerite
Start your engines
Megeve & Combloux | 4–6 July 2025
Famous for its uncompromising elevation gain, the MB Race offers MTB distances for all levels, from family rides to the event's flagship race: the ultra-endurance MB Ultra Somfy (140km with over 7000m of climbing), known as the world's toughest mountain bike race. The setting? Pure Mont-Blanc magic.
Stay here: Apartment Lupin
You can go the distance
Combloux | 6, 7, & 8 June 2025
A more intimate trail-running event with spectacular views of Mont Blanc. Four different timed competitions on 7, 15, 25 and 42km loops through forests and mountain pastures overlooking the Mont-Blanc massif, as well as an obstacle course dedicated to families and mini-trails for children. A celebration of alpine heritage and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a slower, more laid-back pace.
Stay here: Chalet Purdey
The race for everyone
Chamonix | 26-28 June
Eight running competitions over the course of three days organised around Chamonix. There are different levels to sign up for, from 10km to 90km, and there's even the Young Race Marathon, specifically for kids. Test your endurance by running at high altitude and enjoy spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif.
Stay here: Chalet Ikigai
Push your limits
Chamonix | 11-13 July
Climbers will belay into Chamonix in July to compete in both Speed and Lead climbing competitions in this leg of the IFSC Climbing World Cup. Come see the world's elite climbers defy gravity and take on the granite peaks in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif.
Stay here: Chalet Ibex
Embrace the challenge, reach the top
Chamonix | The race starts on the 29th of August 2025
(UTMB World Series Finals) A pilgrimage for trail runners, the UTMB is more than a race; it's a global phenomenon. With thousands of runners, seven races, and a route that circles Mont Blanc, Chamonix transforms into a buzzing outdoor village for one incredible week.
Stay here: Chalet Foxden
Embark on a global phenomenon
Meribel | 9–10 August 2025
(Trail de l’Énergie) A real gem for runners, this race offers a variety of trail routes through Meribel's dramatic ridgelines and forests in the heart of the Vanoise massif. It's great for nature lovers, as the trail crosses the Tueda Nature Reserve. With such diverse trails, there's always something new and exciting to see here.
Stay here: Chalet Vallon
Nature lovers, discover something new
Passing through Courchevel | July 24th 2025
The world-famous Tour de France will take place from July 5th to July 27th. During stage 18, riders will pass through Courchevel in the French Alps. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness this segment of the race while taking in the breathtaking landscape. If you bring your own bike, enjoy a ride in the beautiful surroundings.
Stay here: Apartment Mirador 1850 B
The world's largest cycling race
Alpe d’Huez | June 22, 2025
A legendary cycling race consisting of 186km and 5,000 metres of elevation gain throughout its course. Courageous racers will cover ground through famous passes like the Croix de Fer, the Telegraphe, the Galibier, the Lautaret, and the final ascent to Alpe d’Huez.
Stay here: Apartment Epicea
Must-attend international cyclosportive event
Alpe d’Huez | July 4-6 2025
An unmissable downhill mountain biking competition. Started in 1995, and every year since (rain or shine!), riders have started at 3,330 metres above sea level on the Sarenne glacier and end up in Allemond, 2,600 metres below the starting point. As one of the longest and craziest races in the world, this is not one to miss.
Stay here: Apartment Thuja
Reach the bottom by any means
Verbier | July 11-13, 2025
This is Switzerland's oldest ultra trail, featuring four races ranging from 140 km to 28 km, all set in the stunning Swiss Alps. Each race offers a different distance, allowing you to select the challenge that suits you best. Along the route, you'll be guided to some of the most iconic locations in the Valaisian Swiss Alps.
Stay here: Apartment Snowcrest
Face the challenge head-on
Verbier | August 14-17, 2025
A festival that's a true celebration of bikes, featuring a wide range of bike categories and the exciting chance to test the latest bike and e-bike models from top industry brands. Activities like the Rando Gourmande, Parcours Decouverte, and the vibrant Event Village will keep you busy. Come to Verbier to ride scenic trails and soak in the unmatched festival vibe.
Stay here: Chalet Milou
Discover the latest bikes, experience an unmatched festival
Verbier | September 5-6, 2025
The Swiss mountain bike race marathon began in 1990 and is recognised as one of the most challenging mountain bike races. The route takes participants from Verbier to Grimentz, crossing several valleys and culminating at Pas de Lona, which reaches an altitude of over 2,700m.
Stay here: Apartment Ayous
Experience every altitude
Verbier | September 12-14, 2025
The Verbier Ultra is a race weekend organised by the non-profit association 'Les Coureurs UltraSolidaires.' This event invites participants to reconnect with nature and focus on the essentials through a weekend of trail running. Immerse yourself in a stunning landscape, experience the authenticity of the course, and create unforgettable memories together.
Stay here: Penthouse Treize Etoiles
Immerse yourself, experience nature as it's meant to be
Each of these events offers more than competition. They're cultural moments, community gatherings, and celebrations of the alpine spirit. Whether you're a rider, runner, or curious observer, you'll find joy in these high-altitude adventures' movement, scenery and shared passion.
Sure, this region in the Alps is a haven for competitors, but you don't need to be chasing a podium finish to enjoy summer here. The hiking trails rival the best in the world, with routes winding through lush valleys, dramatic peaks, and mountain lakes. There's white-water rafting or paragliding to give you a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape. And when it's time to unwind? Laid-back terraces, local fromageries, and sunset aperitifs make every evening as rewarding as the day's adventures.
The best part? You don't have to rough it. With Emerald Stay's selection of accommodation across the Alps, you can come back from your adventures to a cosy, centrally located apartment or an alpine chalet. Check out our properties here to book your summer stay today.
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