Preparing for mountain bike outings
In Valais, mountain bike trails will lead you into the heart of nature, into wild and unspoilt countryside, a good distance away from towns and villages.
For your safety, make sure you bring everything you need so that you are prepared for the unexpected and can enjoy your adventure to the fullest. With our selection of equipment to guarantee a successful outing, nothing will stand in your way of enjoying the great outdoors. And to ensure peaceful co-existence, please don't forget to show respect for other trail users.
- Must-have equipment
Choosing and maintaining your equipment
Mountain-biking
To choose the right mountain bike, it is important to consider your riding style, your skill level and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. A bike designed for 4x4 tracks or tarmac roads will not have the same features as a model designed for technical trails or downhill riding.
Throughout the season, regular maintenance helps to extend the life of your equipment. It is important to check the condition of your tyres, brake pads and suspension regularly to prevent problems. Simple, frequent maintenance is better than a major overhaul that comes too late.
Cleaning your mountain bike regularly helps to protect its components, prevent premature wear and ensure the bike performs at its best. Remove dirt, clean the frame and components using suitable products, rinse, dry thoroughly and lightly lubricate the chain, taking care to avoid using high-pressure jets on sensitive parts of the bike.
At the end of the season or after intensive use, it is recommended that you have your mountain bike checked at a specialist shop.
Helmet, protective gear and additional equipment
A helmet is an essential piece of kit for mountain biking: it must fit properly, be comfortable and be in good condition. Depending on the activity you’re planning, additional protective gear such as gloves, knee pads, back protectors or elbow pads is strongly recommended to improve comfort and safety.
A few simple items of kit can make your ride much more stress-free: a pump or CO₂ cartridge to repair a puncture, a spare inner tube, a repair kit, a multi-tool, a water bottle and a snack for longer rides.
Booking your accommodation
For an unforgettable mountain biking holiday in Valais, there’s nothing better than accommodation with the ‘Bike Hotel’ label. These establishments cater to all guests’ needs when travelling by bike or mountain bike. They also offer secure storage for your bike, power sockets to recharge your e-bike’s batteries, a space to clean your bike, a bike wash service and tool kits for maintenance and minor repairs. Some hotels even provide a packed lunch to take on the day of your departure.
Bike companies and Guides
Accompanied by local professionals, discover the most beautiful mountain bike routes in Valais without worrying about the organization. Local companies and guides advise you, adapt the outing to your level, and help you make the most of their in-depth knowledge of the terrain.
Safety and respect
Embarking on one of Valais’s numerous routes for a mountain bike tour is an incomparable experience. It is important that you comply with certain rules of good conduct for your own safety, as well as to preserve the surrounding nature and ensure harmony with other users. Respectful behaviour towards all trail users allows everyone to enjoy their hobby under the best possible conditions. Don't hesitate to slow down, warn and greet other users, who are also enjoying the enchanting Valais countryside. The mountains are a pleasure meant for sharing.
Alpine Manifesto
In the face of climate-related and environmental challenges, the Alpine Manifesto proposes a new way of experiencing the mountains that is more respectful, more conscious and more sustainable.
Under ten simple and inspiring principles, it invites everyone – residents, visitors and professionals alike – to take concrete steps to preserve Alpine landscapes, local communities and the unique biodiversity of our regions.
