Every summer since 2018, Verbier becomes the epicenter of electric mountain biking during the Verbier Electric Bike FestivalOne of the highlights of this event is undoubtedly the E-Tour du Mont-Blanc: an ambitious professional endurance race which sees around twenty teams (men and women) compete over three days of intense competition.
The E-Tour du Mont-Blanc is a condensed series of technical challenges: 100 km, 3000 m of elevation gain and 5000 m of descentrequiring the use of four batteries per day. ESV had the privilege of participating as a "deflag" collaborator. Auguste was tasked with this mission: riding behind the racers to remove the course markers. This total immersion allowed him to experience the race from the inside and explore new trails in the surrounding regions.
Day 1: From Verbier to Courmayeur – Entering the Wild
Starting from Verbier, the runners begin the technical descent towards Lourtier, reach Orsières, then enter the Val FerretThis absolutely magnificent valley offers exceptional e-bike routes. For experienced riders, tackling the E-Race Pro course is a truly memorable experience.
The day culminates in a final climb through a wild alpine landscape. Once the Grand Col Ferret Once over, the Italian side unfolds: a breathtaking view of a pristine valley. A final downhill sprint leads the runners to Courmayeur for a well-deserved end to the day with a pizza and a beer!
Day 2: Between French glaciers and balconies overlooking Mont Blanc
After a restful night, the "deflag" team must set about catching up with the runners who set off at dawn. The morning begins with a steep climb to the Franco-Italian border, beneath the imposing Petite Aiguille des Glaciers (3464 m). In this setting at the ends of the earth, the feeling of freedom is total.
This is followed by a long and pleasant descent towards Les Chapieux, a small, suspended paradise. The special stage ends at the edge of a lake, between the Rochers des Enclaves and the Rocher du Vent. After a quick refuel and battery change, we set off again towards the nature reserve of Contamines-MontjoieAt the Col du Joly, the sloping path offers a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc and the legendary peaks of Chamonix. The descent towards Les Contamines is demanding and steep, before a final climb to reach Les Houches. To think we were in Verbier just yesterday! The feeling is superb.
Day 3: The final challenge and the return to Verbier
For this final stage, the route joins Champex LacThe route begins with a traverse followed by a descent interspersed with particularly technical "rolling stones". The flow returns on the final descent towards Champex, amidst pine trees and a characteristic orange soil.
Now is the time to summon all your remaining strength for the ascent of the Payanne's Head, Mont Brûlé and finally Col de MilleOn this ridge, the atmosphere is breathtaking! Vigilance is essential: the landscapes are so stunning that they could almost distract us.
From the Col de Mille, we take the descent towards MountainThis is undoubtedly the most beautiful section of the tour (a huge thank you to the local team for the outstanding trail maintenance). One last climb finally separates us from the finish line in Verbier.
Experience the adventure with us
A magnificent tour, demanding climbs, technical descents and a unique sense of accomplishment: doing the Tour du Mont-Blanc is a challenge to be undertaken at least once in a lifetime.
If this adventure appeals to you, the Swiss Mountain Bike School will take care of everything:
- Route adapted to your level.
- Battery logistics and supplies.
- Rental and maintenance of your latest generation E-Bike.
- Booking accommodation according to your needs.