Riverside path to Abondance

 

A path that runs the length of the valley from Châtel to Abondance alongside the river has recently been completed, which has opened up a whole new area for safe and accessible riding.

 

The smooth path is 12km long and only 150m of descent in total, so is easy enough for all the family to ride.  You can stop off on your journey and visit the picturesque village of La Chapelle d’Abondance or take the chance to visit one of the markets for some local cheese or souvenirs along the way.  

 

The path is shady and cool in the summer, making it perfect to stop somewhere next to the river to picnic along the way - or alternatively you can eat in one of the many bars and restaurants accessible from the path.

 

Some of the rental shops (such as Vertical Horizons which is just up the road from Chalet Isobel) will allow you to rent bikes so that you either start and finish in Châtel, or alternatively it could be a one way ride where the bike shop meets you in Abondance and drives you back to the start (or they can pick up just the bikes and let you to enjoy the abbey and village of Abondance before you return to Chalet Isobel on one of the frequent buses).  

 

Mountain biking

 

For the younger members of the family there is “Le Kids Park” at the bottom of Pré la Joux next to the dirt jumps and wooden ramps – which is an area dedicated to getting kids started into mountain biking. 

 

This is a fun trail designed especially for children aged 5 and above, where they can experiment with turns, table tops, whoop-de-doos and other original features, just like the older kids. 

 

All kids need to wear a helmet and other protective gear.