Welcome to our guide to cycling in Morzine!
At Epic Road Rides, we’re passionate about helping cyclists find the world’s best places to ride, and Morzine is right up there.
Set in the Haute-Savoie region of the French Alps, this beautiful alpine town is a summer paradise for both outdoor enthusiasts and cyclists, alike. It’s surrounded by iconic climbs like the Col de Joux Plane and Col de la Joux Verte, and jam-packed with rewarding rides and panoramic mountain views.
Add in pristine lakes, beautiful pine forests, plus a buzzing cycling culture, and it’s easy to see why Morzine has become a regular stop for the Tour de France peloton.
In this article, we hear from #TeamEpic ambassador Louisa Woolf, who visited in August 2025. Louisa shares why it’s a fantastic destination for cyclists to consider and her top tips for anyone planning a Morzine bike tour.
Louisa Woolf is a freelance journalist and passionate bike tourer who has travelled extensively across Europe and South America by bike. Most recently, she completed a three-week adventure through Slovenia, finishing in Ljubljana, and was struck by the country’s superb cycling infrastructure, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming attitude toward cyclists. In August 2025, Louisa also explored Morzine in France, discovering its iconic Alpine climbs and vibrant cycling culture.
Before that, Louisa left a cargo bike delivery job in London to embark on the trip of a lifetime across South America. Over nine months, she cycled through five countries, following world-class touring routes from northern Colombia to the Ecuador–Peru border.
Political unrest in Peru forced a change of plans, leading to an unexpected detour to Uruguay, a country Louisa knew little about before arriving. From crossing over from Buenos Aires to riding up to the Brazilian border and back, with inland explorations in between, Uruguay became an unforgettable highlight. She has since returned to discover even more of this beautiful and underrated cycling destination.
To try and make this article more digestible, we have broken it up into four parts:
- Part 1: Why spend your holiday cycling in Morzine? The reasons that make this a great cycling destination.
- Part 2: What can you expect from Morzine (a cyclist’s perspective)? Setting the scene for what cyclists can expect from a holiday in Morzine.
- Part 3: Where are the best bases and must-do cycling routes in Morzine? Includes GPS + a variety of options to suit different abilities.
- Part 4: What things do you need to know before cycling in Morzine? Delving into the practical side of what to expect, including practicalities, plus useful insider tips
Part 1: Why spend your holiday cycling in Morzine?
Located in the heart of the French Alps, Morzine is a cycling hub with lots to offer.
When you’re cycling in Morzine, it’s not uncommon to see more bikes than cars, and the best climbs start right from the centre of town.
Steep alpine ascents, rolling valley roads and scenic forested routes make every ride special.
A thriving cycling hub
Morzine is an excellent base for cycling in the French Alps. It’s a MTB mecca but it’s great for road riding too!
Nearby towns also make great bases for road cyclists and mountain bikers. Les Gets and Samoëns stand out thanks to easy access to a mix of climbs, valley roads and scenic loops. However, I found cycling in Morzine particularly special. This alpine town is surrounded by extensive pine forests, and a river runs through the centre.
The town lives and breathes cycling from June to September. More on this below. During this time, riders are (typically) respected on the roads, and the infrastructure reflects this with dedicated cycle lanes, clearly marked routes and numerous bike-friendly facilities. The many Morzine bike hire shops offer everything from road and mountain bikes to e-bikes. Several hotels also cater specifically to cyclists by providing secure storage, repair facilities and rental services.
Legendary French Alps climbs
From Morzine, road cyclists can tackle iconic Tour de France climbs, such as the Col de Joux Plane cycling climb or the Col de la Joux Verte. In fact, the town has been visited by the legendary race on multiple occasions over the years. More on this below.
Meanwhile, mountain bikers have access to world-class trails; it’s the largest mountain bike area in Europe(source) and nearby Les Gets is a regular host of World Cup MTB events.
An outdoor lover’s paradise
Morzine is not just about cycling. It’s also a beautiful alpine town with traditional chalets, riverside walks and lots of great restaurants.
Nearby villages such as Les Gets, Samoëns and Avoriaz provide even more opportunities for exploring, from lifts for mountain biking to paragliding and canyoning.
Whether you’re chasing epic climbs or exploring scenic valleys, a Morzine bike holiday offers bucketloads of world-class cycling and adventure.
Part 2: What can you expect from Morzine (a cyclist’s perspective)?
Where is Morzine located?
Morzine is located in the Haute-Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. The town sits in the Vallée d’Aulps in the French Alps, at an elevation of 1,000 metres, and is dominated by traditional alpine chalets spread across a river gorge. Morzine is near the Swiss border and approximately 70 kilometres east of Geneva by road. It is an ideal base for both mountain and road cycling, and for a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Often referred to as Morzine-Avoriaz, the area combines the traditional alpine allure of Morzine with the modern, purpose-built, car-free resort of Avoriaz. Cable cars connect the two areas, and while Morzine’s streets offer an authentic alpine atmosphere, Avoriaz provides direct access to winter slopes and summer trails.
Morzine is within the Portes du Soleil. This area comprises eight French and four Swiss ski resorts, all connected by the Portes du Soleil lift pass.
See below a map featuring some of the key places mentioned in this article. Hover over the map pins to see the names of places.
What is the terrain like?
From a cyclist’s perspective, Morzine is an alpine playground.
The town sits at 1,000 metres in the Vallée d’Aulps and is surrounded by steep, forested hills and towering peaks. You can expect significant climbs almost anywhere you ride, as the routes quickly gain elevation as you leave the valley.
If you prefer rolling terrain, the nearby lower valleys provide gentler gradients. Flatter routes are limited, but you can find some along the river valleys between Morzine and its surrounding villages.
What are the roads like?
In Morzine, I found that motorists generally treat cyclists with respect, reflecting the town’s strong cycling culture.
The region provides good infrastructure for cyclists, including frequent signage for both road and mountain bikers.
Smooth, well-maintained road surfaces, particularly on main climbs and popular scenic routes, mean the town is ideal for road bikes. Morzine holds the status of a ‘Ville à Vélo’, a recognition from the Tour de France for its commitment to promoting cycling in all its forms. It means the town places cycle tourism and the sport of cycling at the heart of its local development.
What kind of cyclist is Morzine suitable for?
Morzine offers world-class cycling for every discipline, from legendary road climbs to some of the most challenging and celebrated mountain biking trails in the world.
From June to September, this ski resort town transforms into a lively hub for MTB enthusiasts. This makes it as busy in August as it is in February during ski season.
Just eight kilometres from Morzine is Les Gets, which is a regular host of the MTB World Cup. It’s home to thrilling races over technical trails against a backdrop of remarkable alpine scenery.
What about road cycling in Morzine?
If, like me, you prefer road cycling, don’t be discouraged! As mentioned earlier, Morzine offers some of the most incredible road routes in the Alps, including iconic climbs made famous by the Tour de France. Morzine has hosted the race 35 times since 1975, for 16 stage arrivals and 19 departures (source).
There are 25 challenging mountain passes within just 50 kilometres of Morzine-Avoriaz; this is an excellent base for an epic bike holiday.
Morzine town centre with a cycle lane to the right. At certain times of the day in summer, the whole road shuts for cars and stays open for cyclists! (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
How fit do you have to be?
Given Morzine’s alpine setting, you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the best Morzine bike rides!
Most of the decent-length routes involve significant elevation gain. This means it’s not ideal for complete beginners, but you don’t need to be a pro to have a fantastic time.
Top tip! Plenty of Morzine bike shops rent all kinds of bicycles, so if an e-bike would help you tackle the climbs, you have several options.
Is Morzine suitable for families?
Morzine is an absolute playground for all kinds of outdoor adventure activities. This makes it excellent for families with children who are looking for plenty of options to keep them entertained. The Parc des Dérêchesis is located right in the centre of town, and has so much to offer families, including:
- tennis courts
- a skatepark
- padel courts
- indoor and outdoor pools with water slides
- volleyball pitches
- petanque pitches
- horse rides
- an adventure playground.
As well as the park, Morzine offers more adventurous activities, such as canyoning, white-water rafting, rock climbing, hiking and paragliding. While some local climbs can be challenging, the valley also has some more gentle cycling routes that would be suitable for families with older children.
Do you need to join a tour to cycle in Morzine?
Since Morzine is so well equipped for cycling holidays, you don’t have to join a tour to access the best Morzine cycling routes. You can use the town as a base for exploring the many climbs and routes that you can easily reach on cycle paths with clearly marked signposts.
You can map out your own routes and ride at your own pace. There are cafés and restaurants to stop at and, if you want to, you’ll definitely meet fellow cyclists.
Part 3: Where are the best bases for cyclists and must-do cycling routes in Morzine?
Morzine centre
Staying in the town centre is ideal for a Morzine bike holiday, as many of the best climbs start right from there, and it’s within easy walking distance of excellent restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. Even at its busiest, the town retains a pleasant, authentic vibe, thanks to its lovely wooden buildings, the Dranse River running through its centre and an imposing mountain backdrop.
Morzine is full of walking paths that go along the river and into the forest, so it’s always easy to get away from any tourist crowds.
The main lifts operate from the centre of Morzine town, so if you’re interested in hiking the mountains as well as cycling, this is a good spot to be. The town is quaint yet lively, and it’s full of cyclists from June to September.
Walks through Morzine (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
St Jean d’Aulps
For a quieter and more authentic stay, you could consider the nearby village of St Jean d’Aulps instead.
It’s tranquil and scenic, and connected to Morzine by bus (only eight kilometres away).
Top tip! It has fewer tourists, so it offers a more peaceful retreat. It can also be considerably cheaper than Morzine.
Cyclists can enjoy alpine pastures and a traditional village atmosphere. Don’t miss the 11th-century Aulps Abbey, which is a fascinating piece of local history.
The must-do Morzine cycling routes
Morzine – Avoriaz – Col de la Joux Verte (Avoriaz from Morzine)
Best for: If you are going to challenge yourself to one big climb on your trip, let it be this one. Slightly gentler than Joux Plane, with nicer views!
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The Col de la Joux Verte climb
The route begins at the church right in the centre of Morzine. From there, you’ll pass a few chalets before turning almost immediately onto the road to Avoriaz at the roundabout, starting with the first five switchbacks.
The Grimpée d’Avoriaz was first featured in the Tour de France in 1975. The well-paved road is wide, and every kilometre, you’ll find signs showing your current elevation, the distance remaining and the average gradient ahead. You’ll quickly be rewarded with magnificent views of the Morzine valley and the Pointe de Nyon mountain.
It’s about 14 kilometres of climbing from Morzine to Avoriaz, with a steady gradient of 6% to 8% throughout and a total elevation gain of 860 metres. About halfway up, the road opens onto alpine pastures dotted with chalets, and you may spot paragliders launching above. Around three kilometres before the summit, the distinctive architecture of Avoriaz comes into view. Riding into town is a great chance to refuel, as Avoriaz has plenty of cafés, bars and restaurants. A personal favourite is the bakery Le Fournil de Cannelle.
The descent
The descent follows the Col de la Joux Verte, a quieter road that winds through a beautiful pine forest with lots to see on the way down! You’ll pass the village of Les Lindarets, where you’ll have to slow down for the resident goat population, but the goats are incredibly tame and receptive to strokes from tourists. It’s also a lovely place to stop for food, and the menus are full of local goat’s cheese.
From Les Lindarets, it’s nine kilometres back to Morzine if you go directly, though you can take a short detour to the impressive mountain waterfall called Cascade d’Ardents.
The views are incredible on the descent. You can see the strikingly turquoise Lake Montriond emerge through the trees. It’s also well worth a brief detour off the road to visit the Bout du Lac and take in the view from the quieter end of the lake. From here, you’ll pass through the village of Montriond, with its pretty church and impressive floral displays, before returning to Morzine.
Top tip! This route is a loop, so you could do it in reverse if you’d prefer a longer, slightly less steep climb on the way up.
Col de Joux Plane (from Morzine)
Best for: Tackling one of Morzine’s most famous Tour de France climbs and for impressive views of Mont Blanc
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Overview of the route
The route starts at the roundabout in town, called the Rond-Point de la Couttetaz. It takes you up the other side of the valley, and it’s possibly the most famous climb in the Morzine area. The Tour de France has used the Col de Joux Plane many times, and while it is known for being tough, it’s also one of the most rewarding Morzine bike rides you can do while you’re here. The climb is roughly 11 kilometres long, with 771 metres of elevation gain.
The climb
Be aware! The average gradient sits at 6.5%, but there are sections that kick up to 11%. The stretch up to Col du Ranfolly is especially steep.
The initial segment of the road starts by winding out of Morzine town, and it’s brutal. Soon, you wind through a beautiful alpine forest that opens into pastures near the ski lifts. From here, the views really start to open up, but the gradient increases too.
Once you’ve pushed through the steep section at Ranfolly, the good news is that the final two kilometres up to the Col are much kinder. There’s even a short downhill before the road bears right across the mountainside. As you turn the corner, the lake at the Col de Joux Plane comes into view, providing one of the best viewpoints in the valley.
The return trip
The summit of the col is the perfect place to stop, catch your breath, and take it all in. There’s even a café opposite the lake for anyone wanting a celebratory coffee or a quick refuel.
When you’re ready, the descent back to Morzine is back the way you came. It’s fast, flowing, packed with hairpins and absolutely thrilling.
Top tip! Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your route, continue over the col and descend all the way down into Samoëns. From there, you can loop round through Taninges before heading back to Morzine. This extended circuit covers 56 kilometres in total, with around 1,200 metres of climbing. It’s a tough but fantastic way to take in even more of the valley.
Morzine – L’Erigne – Lac des Mines d’Or
Best for: A beginner-friendly climb for cyclists seeking solitude
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Top tip! None of these Morzine cycling routes are especially busy! But if you’re looking for real peace and quiet, head up to the Lac des Mines d’Or. This is only seven kilometres from Morzine, with around 430 metres of climbing. It’s a shorter, more beginner-friendly option that still feels like a proper adventure.
This route starts at Morzine church ,and as you follow the Route de la Manche out of town, you wind gently upwards through the pretty hamlet of L’Erigne. It’s a beautiful, quiet road that carries you all the way to the lake, which is far less visited than nearby Lake Montriond.
At the top, you’ll find a gorgeous alpine lake backed by dramatic peaks. It’s a perfect spot to pause, grab a bite at the Lac des Mines d’Or restaurant, stroll the path around the water or set off on one of the hiking trails that begin here.
I particularly like the Col de Cou, a loop hike that starts and finishes at the lake and takes around two hours. The lake is at the end of the paved road, so to return to Morzine, simply turn around and enjoy the downhill ride the whole way back!
Climb to Lac De Mines D’Or (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
Morzine – St Jean d’Aulps – Valley route
Best for: A gentle Morzine route boasting beautiful views
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This route also starts at Morzine church, in the town centre.
This easy route is just under 30 kilometres and takes in some of the loveliest parts of the Morzine valley. With under 500 metres of elevation gain (most of which is on the approach to Lake Montriond), this is a good option for when you’d like an easier day!
The route takes you down the valley into St Jean d’Aulps, a picturesque village with quiet lanes and tracks that are perfect for a gentle wander. Along the way, you’ll pass the church, the ruins of the 11th-century Aulps Abbey and the little St Guérin oratory.
From there, make your way to lovely Lake Montriond.
The dramatic mountains tower above the turquoise water, producing an awe-inspiring setting. There, you can brave a swim, rent a paddleboard or stroll the loop around the lake. There are also a couple of cafés and even a playground, making it a lovely place to spend the day with your family.
Scenic view of Vallée d’Aulps (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
Part 4: What things do you need to know before cycling in Morzine?
What practicalities do cyclists need to consider when cycling in Morzine?
When is a good time for a Morzine cycling holiday?
Road cycling in Morzine is best during the summer months, from June through the end of September. For the full experience, plan your Morzine cycling holiday between mid-July and early August, when all the lifts are open and there’s a lively atmosphere in town.
For mountain biking in Morzine, the lifts generally run from mid-June to the end of August, so this is the ideal period for accessing the area’s best trails.
Road cyclists, who don’t rely on the lifts, may prefer June or September, when the roads are quieter, you can avoid peak crowds and potentially enjoy better savings.
Be aware! Snowfall usually begins in November, triggering the town’s transition back into a ski resort, and this usually continues through to April.
Peaceful reflections at Lac de Mines d’Or (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
What are the key cycling events in Morzine?
Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes
As mentioned earlier, Morzine has hosted the Tour de France 35 times, with recent stages finishing in the town in 2022 and 2023. The area is renowned for its challenging climbs, making it an iconic and celebrated destination in cycling history. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during the Tour, expect lively crowds, supportive messages scrawled across the roads and an electric atmosphere.
In August 2025, Morzine played host to the final stage of the Tour de France Femmes, highlighting its status as a key destination in the world of elite cycling (source).
The decisive stage challenged riders with a climb from Samoëns over the Col de Joux Plane, followed by a descent into Morzine, then another ascent over the Col du Corbier, before finishing in Châtel. This event underscored the town’s long-standing connection to professional cycling and its reputation as a must-ride location for road enthusiasts.
MTB World Cup
In August 2025, Morzine’s neighbouring town, Les Gets, hosted a stage of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series. Riders competed in downhill, cross-country, Olympic, and cross-country short track events.
Les Gets’ connection to elite racing runs deep. It first held a World Cup downhill round in 1996, and this has been a fixture on the circuit since returning in 2019. The area is now firmly established as a cornerstone of the mountain biking calendar, known for its technical terrain, outstanding alpine setting and passionate French crowds.
Morzine – Montriond – Avoriaz Triathlon
It’s hard to imagine a more dramatic or gruelling triathlon course than the one that winds through Morzine at the end of each August. Competitors start with a two-kilometre swim in the glorious alpine Lake Montriond. They then cycle a 46-kilometre bike loop with 1,520 metres of elevation gain, climbing the Col de la Joux Verte and the Grimpée d’Avoriaz before descending into Morzine. Finally, they complete an 11-kilometre trail run that adds another 210 metres of elevation.
It’s a huge test of endurance and a great watch for spectators.
What are the best hotels and accommodation options for cyclists in Morzine?
Remember to double-check bike storage arrangements (and any other services you need) before booking your accommodation as policies often change and they may charge for storage.
Top tip! Some hotels in Morzine have earned the ‘Accueil Vélo’ label, a special accreditation for establishments that go out of their way to welcome cyclists and provide services tailored to them. These certified hotels offer high-quality hospitality and include cyclist-friendly facilities, such as secure bike storage, luggage transfer, laundry services and basic bike repair kits.
Five hotels in Morzine have been awarded this accreditation, and they are all conveniently located close to the centre of town. You can browse them below:
Be aware! It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially if you’re visiting in peak season (July and August).
Multi Pass
Check with your accommodation provider if they are Multi Pass accredited. The Portes du Soleil Multi Pass is a summer activity card offering free or discounted access to a huge range of activities across the Portes du Soleil area.
When organised through your accommodation, the pass costs just €3 per person per day. If purchased independently, it costs €14 per person per day (prices in August 2025).
The pass includes most of the summer lift network. This makes it easy for walkers and families to explore the mountains for free. Other complementary activities include Morzine’s swimming pool complex, cinema, laser game, mini golf, indoor ice skating, tennis and padel.
Be aware! You’ll need an MTB-specific pass to bring your bike on the lift with you. Find out more.
Are there shops for bike hire in Morzine?
Prices, services and bike brands often change. Please let us know if anything is incorrect.
Morzine is a true cycling hub, and on a short walk through the town, you will find numerous bike rental shops. While most Morzine bike hire shops focus primarily on mountain bikes, there are also several options for renting road or gravel bikes. This includes:
Morz’na Sport
3 Rond-Point de la Crusaz, 74110, Morzine,
+33 4 50 79 09 63
This Morzine bike rental shop offers a selection of Lapierre road bikes and e-bikes to rent, for half-day sessions or multi-day rentals for your entire holiday. Helmets are included, and all bikes come with two bottle cages.
The shop is located on the main roundabout in the heart of town, making it easy to stop and check out their range. The staff are friendly, helpful and fluent in both English and French. During the busy season, it’s a good idea to call ahead and reserve your bike. Top tip! I used this shop a few times to rent a bike for my dad. They were super friendly and helpful, and they always had a bike available whenever we wandered in (it was the end of August).
Alps Bike Hire by Buzz Performance
14 Route d’Avoriaz, 74110 Morzine
Buzz Performance is a local coaching specialist that also offers bike rentals. Their Morzine bike shop stocks a wide selection of new Pearson road bikes, each equipped with two bottle cages, a gas canister, a saddle bag with a spare tube and tyre levers, a multitool and Shimano SPD-SL pedals. (You can swap pedals for toe cages or flat pedals at the shop, or you can bring your own pedals for them to install.)
Note: Pearson bikes are British, so by default, their brakes are set up UK-style – the right lever controls the front brake, and the left lever controls the rear brake. This is the opposite of standard European bikes.
Riders must bring their own cycling shoes and helmets. The shop is located at The Hive, a gym and sports complex that’s just a short walk from the town centre. You can visit in person or book bikes online in advance. They offer bike delivery to the surrounding areas upon request.
How do you get to Morzine?
Plane
The most convenient way to get to Morzine from abroad is to fly to Geneva, which is only about 80 kilometres away from the resort by road (even less if you use bike paths). Geneva is incredibly well connected to other places, so you can find well-priced and direct flights from all London airports, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Dublin, as well as many other European and North American cities.
Airport Transfers
Several transfer companies have experience with transporting passengers and their bikes to Morzine from Geneva airport. My best suggestion is to use one of the many local transfer companies based in the valley.
Cycle
If you’ve brought your bike, cycling from Geneva to Morzine is straightforward and a relatively easy ride. It’s also a great first taste of the exquisite alpine scenery that awaits you. To reach Morzine, it’s about 65 kilometres from Geneva Airport, or around 60 kilometres from Geneva’s main train station, with just over 1,000 metres of elevation gain. The start of the route is along the voie verte, which is a lovely, gentle cycle path that takes you out of the city and then onto quiet mountain roads and into the Alps.
Train and Bus
You can also reach Morzine by train. The closest station is Thonon-les-Bains. You can get there via frequent trains from Geneva or by high-speed TGV from Paris, which takes around four hours. Bikes are permitted on trains, but make sure you reserve a spot when you buy your ticket. From Thonon-les-Bains, you can take the regional bus Y91, which takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately €5 to €8. Bikes are permitted on the bus.
Any highway code and travel information I should be aware of?
As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for France are here.
You should also read and follow France’s highway code. Be aware! In France, cyclists must ride on the right, obey all traffic signs and signals, use lights after dark and wear a helmet.
Don’t forget to ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all the activities you plan on undertaking.
Do you have any tips for cycling in Morzine?
Is there anything cyclists can expect when riding in the mountains around Morzine?
One of the best things about biking in Morzine is the kilometre markers dotted along the mountain passes. These markers guide you all the way to the top and are a source of motivation, helping riders push through the final, gruelling stretches. Each marker provides essential information for cyclists, including altitude, distance remaining to the summit, and the average gradient of the next kilometre.
You’ll find these markers on all the major climbs in the Vallée d’Aulps, making it easier to pace yourself and tackle the alpine ascents.
What should I know to stay safe while cycling in Morzine?
While Morzine’s roads aren’t overly busy, you should expect to encounter cars during the climbs. You should also be prepared for narrow alpine roads with tight switchbacks.
Top tip! Ride sensibly, stay visible, and keep right to give drivers space. A well-serviced bike and strong brakes are also essential for big climbs and technical descents.
Expect a temperature drop at the summit of the cols, as it’s often much cooler up there than it is in town. The weather in the mountains also changes quickly. The wind can make descents feel especially chilly, so pack a lightweight jacket to stay comfortable on the way down.
Hairpin bend near Pointe de Nyon (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
What kit should I bring?
Make sure you bring layers for the alpine climate, as it can change quickly from sunny to rainy. Don’t forget to take a waterproof jacket for chilly descents. Always bring helmets, gloves, sunglasses and plenty of water and snacks so you can tackle the climbs safely and comfortably.
You can also pick up most cycling essentials at one of the many bike shops in Morzine, and for anything you forget, there’s a multi-storey INTERSPORT right in town.
Looking for more packing essentials? Don’t miss this practical guide to what to pack.
What level of training do I need?
Top tip! Don’t be intimidated by the climbs, as you can take them at your own pace. However, a base level of fitness is essential because these are the Alps, and even the moderate Morzine bike rides have some significant elevation gain. Pace yourself, enjoy the scenery and remember that every summit you reach is an achievement!
Do I need a car for cycling holidays in Morzine?
You don’t need a car during the summer months, as free shuttle buses serve every part of the town, including all the main lifts and the Morzine cycling routes that take visitors up to the popular Lake Montriond. The rides I suggest trying in this article all start from the centre of town. Morzine is also compact, so the distances to the start of routes are generally very short from wherever you’re staying.
Top tip! The Balad’Aulps Bus is a useful service connecting Morzine with nearby tourist hotspots, including Avoriaz, Les Gets and St Jean d’Aulps. Tickets are a few euros per person, making it an easy and affordable way to explore the valley without a car.
Be aware! Bikes are generally not allowed on Balad d’Aulps Buses. However, there is a shuttle service which transports mountain bikers to the Prodains cable car, which is called “Avo en vélo”.
What food and culture can I enjoy during a Morzine cycling holiday?
The Savoie region is known for its hearty, cheese-focused cuisine, so be sure to try a fondue or a tartiflette. For a cosy, traditional meal, head to La Grange, or try La Chaudanne for a slightly more chic option.
Top tip! Be sure to try Abondance cheese, a local speciality made in the neighbouring town of the same name.
Satellite Coffee is Morzine’s coolest, buzziest café, and in my opinion, it has the best coffee. Beer lovers also won’t want to miss the Bec Jaune microbrewery, which offers home-brewed beers and an excellent menu for a casual dinner.
Can I access food and water while cycling around Morzine?
Always scope your route before heading out of Morzine. Some mountain restaurants are open during the summer, but not all of them. Some of the major climbs (such as the Col de Joux Plane) don’t have a restaurant en route, so you can’t refuel until the summit. Make sure you carry enough snacks and water to get you to the top.
Fondue and wine (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
Do I need to speak French?
Morzine attracts lots of British tourists and expats, so English is widely spoken.
You don’t need to speak French, but people in bakeries and restaurants often appreciate it.
Interesting information about Morzine and its culture
Farmer’s Market
Every Wednesday morning, from 8:00am to 12:30am, Morzine hosts a lovely farmers’ market, showcasing the region’s best local produce. You can find fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, cheese and charcuterie, alongside clothing and regional products. It’s located in the Place de la Poste, right outside Carrefour.
Yoga on Lake Montriond
Don’t miss Sunday morning yoga at Lake Montriond. At 8:00 am, just as the sun peeks over the mountains, it bathes the yoga deck in warmth.
With a pristine alpine lake at your feet, pine forests all around, and dramatic peaks as your backdrop, it’s easily one of the most beautiful yoga spots you’ll ever experience.
Be aware! If you want to try this yoga, it is necessary to book in advance with Yoga Snow.
Morning yoga by the lake in the Alps (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)
What’s next?
A huge thanks to Louisa Woolf for sharing these detailed insights on cycling in Morzine!
Have you cycled around Morzine before and tackled one of its famous climbs? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Looking for more French Alps cycling ideas? Don’t miss:
- Cycling the Alps: An overview of the best Alpine cycling destinations
- Col de L’Iseran, for a guide to another great destination in the French Alps
- Cycling France: 7 best regions for cyclists
- French Alps cycle tours, for our pick of the best Alps bike tours
- Cycling the Route des Grandes Alpes, from Geneva to Nice
- French Alps weather, for a cyclist’s guide to when to visit the Alps
- The best Tour de France climbs, for more legendary cols to conquer
Loved reading Louisa’s guide? Don’t miss:
- Cycling in Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Cycling in Uruguay
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Looking for an organised cycling trip?
If you want someone to help you plan and book your cycling holiday, fill out this form. We aren’t a tour operator/agent but we work with lots of people who are and will do our best to put you in touch with someone that can help (within 24 hours where possible)!Louisa Woolf is a freelance journalist and passionate bike tourer who has travelled extensively across Europe and South America by bike. Most recently, she completed a three-week adventure through Slovenia, finishing in Ljubljana, and was struck by the country’s superb cycling infrastructure, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming attitude toward cyclists. In August 2025, Louisa also explored Morzine in France, discovering its iconic Alpine climbs and vibrant cycling culture.
Before that, Louisa left a cargo bike delivery job in London to embark on the trip of a lifetime across South America. Over nine months, she cycled through five countries, following world-class touring routes from northern Colombia to the Ecuador–Peru border.
Political unrest in Peru forced a change of plans, leading to an unexpected detour to Uruguay, a country Louisa knew little about before arriving. From crossing over from Buenos Aires to riding up to the Brazilian border and back, with inland explorations in between, Uruguay became an unforgettable highlight. She has since returned to discover even more of this beautiful and underrated cycling destination.
First Published: 12 November 2025
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