The route
From Geneva Airport, it's just a 1.5-hour train journey to Martigny in the Rhone Valley. The valley is the main artery of the region. From here, the side valleys branch off to the right and left, each with a dream spot for mountain bikers at the end: Verbier, Val d'Anniviers and Zermatt. Train tickets cost between 17 and 25 euros (20 to 30 CHF) per person. You have to add half the ticket price for bike transport. However, there is also a multi-day bike ticket for just under 70 euros (78 CHF), which is valid for six days.
Timetables, reservations and ticket costs are best researched using the free WiFi at the stations at www.sbb.ch
Verbier
Best trail: from La Chaux to Lourtier. The descent extends from the highest point of the bike park to the beautiful village overlooking the Rhone Valley.
Accommodation tip
Hotel La Vallée in Lourtier, a few minutes from the cable car to Verbier. Info: www.vallee.ch
Val d'Anniviers
Best trail: Piste Bleue from Tignousa to St. Luc. The trail has incredible flow and offers a few moderately difficult kickers. Accessible with the spectacular St. Luc funicular railway.
Accommodation tip
Hotel Weissenhorn, high above St. Luc, dating from 1882. www.weisshorn.ch
Zermatt
Best trail: The Mark Twain Trail on the Gornergrat. A classic trail that is never too difficult against a sensational glacier backdrop. The best place to get off the Gornergrat railway is at the Rotendboden station.
Accommodation tip
Chalet Hotel Schönegg. The prices at the four-star hotel in the centre of Zermatt are no small matter, but neither is the gigantic breakfast. www.schonegg.ch
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