The "Claviere (To) MTB Tour: the Dark Side of the Moon" is a thrilling adventure that takes riders on an exhilarating journey through the stunning landscapes of the Italian-French border. With a focus on safety and guided expertise, this tour caters to mountain bikers of all skill levels, promising unforgettable experiences amidst the natural beauty of Monti della Luna. From the starting point in Claviere, you will embark on a challenging ride to the breathtaking summit of Sommet du Gondrans, navigating trails that offer breathtaking vistas along the way. What awaits those who take on this tour is a true test of skill and a chance to enjoy the dark side of the moon.
Key Points
- Explore the lesser-known trails and hidden gems of the Monti della Luna range during this 6.5-hour mountain biking tour from Claviere.
- Tackle challenging switchbacks and technical singletrack descents while enjoying breathtaking views of the alpine landscape.
- Suitable for mountain bikers of all skill levels, with optional bike rental and lunch available to enhance the experience.
- Tour includes a guided ascent to the Capanna Mautino hut and a panoramic descent to Le Font, showcasing the diverse terrain.
- Book the tour with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.
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Tour Overview and Experience
The Claviere (TO) MTB tour, titled "The Dark Side of the Moon," offers participants a thrilling 6.5-hour adventure through the wild and breathtaking landscapes of the Italian-French border region.
This limited-group tour, available in Italian, French, and English, takes riders on a journey across verdant mountain scenery, past hidden lakes, and down into the Montgenevre Bike Park.
Highlights include a circular route through the Monti della Luna and a panoramic descent to the summit of Gondrans at 2,459 meters.
With optional bike rental and lunch, this tour provides an immersive off-road experience for mountain bikers of all skill levels.
Tour Description
Setting out from Claviere, the high-altitude Claviere (TO) MTB tour takes riders on a journey across the verdant landscapes and imposing mountains along the Italian-French border.
The route ascends to Capanna Mautino, then veers off to lesser-known paths leading to the serene Fontana Fredda and Sous Bousson lakes.
The tour culminates in a panoramic descent to Le Font, followed by a final climb to the Sommet du Gondrans at 2,459 meters, offering various descent options.
Riders can expect a thrilling experience on designed trails, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Monti della Luna, or "Mountains of the Moon".
Booking Information
The Claviere (TO) MTB tour is priced from €45.00 per person. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
To get a full refund, they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Availability and starting times for the tour are also provided, so visitors can check if it fits their schedule.
The tour includes a mountain bike guide, and guests have the option to add on a lunch at La Taque or rent a mountain bike.
Detailed instructions on the meeting point, which is a wooden cabin with a Chaberton Outdoor Activities sign in front of the Claviere church, ensure participants find the starting location easily.
Included Services
The Claviere (TO) MTB tour includes a mountain bike guide to lead participants through the scenic routes. Though lunch at La Taque and mountain bike rental are optional add-ons, the tour provides the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
| Included Services | Lunch at La Taque | Mountain Bike Rental |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain Bike Guide | Optional | Optional |
| Equipment | – | – |
| Expertise | – | – |
Regardless of the add-ons, the core tour package equips adventurers with a knowledgeable guide and the resources to conquer the challenging trails of the Italian-French border region.
Preparation and Requirements
Participants must come prepared for the Claviere (TO) MTB tour. They’ll need to bring essential gear like sunglasses, snacks, water, and cycling clothing.
A helmet, both for mountain biking and general use, is a must. Padded shorts, gloves, sunscreen, and a windproof jacket will also come in handy.
Participants should also consider bringing photographic equipment to capture the tour’s breathtaking scenery.
The meeting point is a wooden cabin with a Chaberton Outdoor Activities sign, located in front of the Claviere church.
With the right preparation, adventurers can fully enjoy this wild mountain biking experience.
Meeting Point
Located in front of the Claviere church in Piazza Europa, the wooden cabin with the Chaberton Outdoor Activities sign serves as the designated meeting point for the Claviere (TO) MTB tour.
Participants should arrive at this easily identifiable location, where they’ll meet their mountain bike guide and prepare for the thrilling adventure ahead.
The meeting point provides a convenient and central gathering spot, ensuring a smooth start to the tour.
Riders should plan to arrive a few minutes early to allow time for final preparations before setting off on the challenging yet rewarding route through the stunning Monti della Luna landscape.
Ascent to Capanna Mautino
From the meeting point, riders embark on the initial ascent towards Capanna Mautino, a historic mountain hut situated at an elevation of approximately 2,130 meters.
The climb winds through lush meadows, offering glimpses of the majestic Monti della Luna range.
Along the way, riders encounter:
- Challenging switchbacks that test their technical skills
- Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys
- Opportunities to catch their breath and refuel before the next leg of the journey
The ascent to Capanna Mautino sets the stage for the tour’s exploration of the "Dark Side of the Moon," where riders will explore the lesser-known trails and hidden gems of this captivating alpine landscape.
Panoramic Descent to Le Font
The panoramic descent from the Sommet du Gondrans takes riders down a thrilling singletrack, carving through the alpine landscape towards the quaint village of Le Font.
The trail winds its way through dense forests and open meadows, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Riders will need to navigate technical sections and tight switchbacks, testing their technical skills and nerve.
The descent provides a true adrenaline rush, with the promise of reaching the picturesque village of Le Font at the end.
This section of the tour showcases the epic, diverse terrain that makes the Claviere MTB experience so unforgettable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Level of Fitness Is Required for This Tour?
This tour requires a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be comfortable riding a mountain bike for extended periods and ascending and descending challenging terrain. A good level of cardiovascular and muscular endurance is recommended.
Can I Bring My Own Mountain Bike?
Yes, participants can bring their own mountain bike for the tour. The tour provider does offer optional mountain bike rental, but it’s not required. Bringing your own bike can provide a more personalized experience on the trails.
Is There Any Technical Difficulty Involved in the Trails?
The tour features technical, challenging trails with steep climbs, technical descents, and rocky sections. Participants should have intermediate to advanced mountain biking skills and be physically fit to handle the demanding terrain.
Are There Any Restrictions on Group Size or Minimum Participants?
The tour has a limited group size of 6 participants. There are no minimum participant requirements. The group size is capped to ensure a personalized and intimate experience for each guest on the tour.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a cancellation policy that allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations can be made with a "reserve now, pay later" option.
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Sum Up
The "Claviere (To) MTB Tour: the Dark Side of the Moon" offers an unforgettable mountain biking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Italian-French border. Catering to riders of all skill levels, the tour promises thrilling trails, breathtaking vistas, and expert guidance, ensuring an exhilarating experience amidst the natural beauty of the Monti della Luna. Participants can look forward to an unforgettable day of challenging yet rewarding exploration in this spectacular alpine setting.