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WHAT ARE THE TOP CYCLING-FRIENDLY SKI RESORTS IN SUMMER?
Ski resorts aren’t just for winter sports. In summer, many transform into cycling paradises, offering legendary climbs, smooth roads, and dedicated mountain bike trails. From the Alps to North America, resorts use their infrastructure—hotels, lifts, and services—to attract cyclists seeking altitude training or adventure. The best cycling-friendly ski resorts in summer combine accessibility with dramatic scenery, making them ideal for both road cyclists and mountain bikers. This article highlights the top global destinations, explains why they excel, and shares tips for planning a memorable summer cycling trip.
Why ski resorts suit summer cycling
Ski resorts are uniquely positioned to serve summer cyclists. Their roads are designed to handle steep gradients, while their lift systems and accommodations adapt easily for biking. What was once a snowy playground becomes a cycling training ground.
Altitude and training benefits
Resorts often sit at high elevation, offering natural altitude training. Riders benefit from improved aerobic capacity after weeks of climbing and recovering in thinner air. This makes resorts attractive to professionals and amateurs preparing for peak events.
Infrastructure built for athletes
Hotels accustomed to skiers adapt seamlessly to cyclists, offering gear storage, hearty meals, and transport services. Many resorts also repurpose ski lifts to carry bikes uphill, opening downhill MTB parks with groomed trails.
High-altitude roads for endurance training.
Hotels and facilities tailored to athletes.
Lift-access MTB trails in summer.
Stunning mountain scenery enhancing every ride.
These advantages make ski resorts some of the most cycling-friendly destinations once snow melts.
Top cycling-friendly resorts worldwide
Several ski resorts have gained reputations as summer cycling hubs, attracting both road and mountain cyclists. Their combination of famous climbs, smooth tarmac, and world-class MTB infrastructure makes them standouts globally.
Alpe d’Huez, France
Known for its 21 legendary hairpins, Alpe d’Huez is a bucket-list climb featured in the Tour de France. In summer, the resort opens its roads and trails to cyclists, with dedicated cycling festivals and well-developed MTB parks.
Livigno, Italy
At 1,800 meters, Livigno is a high-altitude paradise. Pro teams flock here for altitude camps, while amateurs enjoy smooth roads, epic climbs, and the Mottolino Bike Park. Its duty-free status also makes it a budget-friendly base.
Whistler, Canada
Whistler transforms into one of the world’s premier MTB destinations each summer. Its bike park features hundreds of kilometers of trails for all levels, while road cyclists tackle routes into British Columbia’s dramatic mountain landscapes.
Alpe d’Huez: iconic road cycling and MTB trails.
Livigno: high-altitude road climbs and bike parks.
Whistler: world-class MTB infrastructure and scenic roads.
Other gems: Aspen (USA), Verbier (Switzerland), and Andorra’s Vallnord.
Each resort offers unique strengths, but all share a common theme: leveraging ski infrastructure to create cycling meccas in summer.
Planning your summer cycling trip
Maximizing a summer trip to a ski resort requires thoughtful planning. Altitude, weather, and terrain demand preparation beyond the usual weekend ride.
Adapting to altitude and terrain
Acclimatization is key. Riders should allow several days before tackling big climbs to adjust to thinner air. Training should progress gradually, avoiding burnout on the first rides. Hydration is especially critical at altitude.
Practical logistics and tips
Book accommodations early, as summer cycling festivals fill hotels fast. Carry layered clothing, since mountain weather shifts quickly. For MTB trips, bring protective gear, and for road trips, ensure gearing matches steep gradients.
Arrive early to acclimatize to altitude.
Pack versatile gear for changing conditions.
Match bike setup to steep gradients and terrain.
Leverage resort services like lifts and guided tours.
By preparing strategically, cyclists can turn a ski resort trip into the highlight of their season, blending challenging rides with alpine beauty.
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