Avoriaz Activity Review: 11th August 2011

And so was the little ride that we have just returned from, up the Vallee de la Manche to Lac Mines D’Or. It’s only 5 km or so up the Vallee but is well worth it for the stunning views and lake surroundings. There is a little walk around the lake itself with wildlife information on little boards (if you can read French.) The lake itself reflects the surrounding mountains; Tete du Boston, Nyon and the Angolan.

We had our little wander around the lake and then headed to the restaurant for some refreshments. We were a little late for lunch and so opted for ice creams and then a couple of beers to wash it all down whilst we soaked in the rays and admired the view. The best bit was that all the hard work had been done (not that it’s a hard ride, only the least pedal power averse would struggle) but it is nice to know it’s downhill all the way back to Morzine. If you’re on mountain bikes then take the river trail to the left of the road which brings you directly back in to town.

This last Saturday we were treated to the exceptional fireworks display at the Fete du Lac up Montriond. It’s a great evening out with plenty of people heading up there for picnique on the grass, bbq’s or dinner in the restaurants at either end of the Lac. Un-fortunately it was the last day of the duff weather period so was a little damp initially. It didn’t seem to put anyone off and the fireworks were stunning as ever!

The up-coming attractions this weekend are both in the grueling physical category. Saturday is for the runners out there, the Trail Hauts Forts is basically a fell race culminating in the climb to Avoriaz after ticking off Nyon and Fornet! Apparently 3200m vertical and 41 km distance - I can think of easier marathons. For those who may find this a little intimidating then there is a “short” course of 21km and 1700m vertical.

Me, I prefer to stick to two wheels so I will be having a pop at the Avoriaz cycle hill climb Sunday morning (in theory I could do both but whilst I may be daft I’m not stupid!) The climb to Avoriaz from the centre of town gains around 900m over the distance of 14km, not to be sniffed at but I guess it doesn’t sound quite as impressive as the running event stats.

Still it’ll be short but most definitely not sweet! The winner usually comes in with a time of around 38 minutes plus or minus a minute but anything under an hour is an achievement in my books, well actually climbing the thing is an achievement regardless of time. Basically it’s all comers so the winner will be an elite level amateur but the competitors bringing up the rear have probable only just dusted the bike down from last year’s event.

If you fancy a go of either event then pop into tourist information the day before to get the details; you will need a doctor’s note unless you are in possession of a racing license from an appropriate governing body.

Bon Route!