Given its characteristic topography, there is no lack of opportunities for MTB'ing in the Haute-Savoie. A few good strategies for mixing sports with the exploration of an exceptional territory:

Vallée Verte:

Descent along the banks of the Menoge (about 3 hours) from Habère-Poche (plateau des Moises) to Saint André-de-Boëge. Shaded paths and very pleasant. Return by shuttle. MTB + helmet + shuttle: € 16 for adults, € 13 for children (below 11 years).

Marked trails accessible to all on the plateau des Moises. Brochure of the MTB routes and pedestrian paths in the Vallée Verte.  Available for € 10 at the Habère Poche Tourist Office - +33 (0) 450 39 54 46.

Taninges-Mieussy:

Accompanied circuits. From family walks to the «Free-ride» descent, the most beautiful MTB trails of Taninges - Praz-de-Lys are there to be explored. Small groups of 8 people. Contact: Bertrand Magnon-+ 33 (0)685 02 38 69.

To follow: 7 MTB circuits (from 45 minutes to 2 hours) on Mieussy-Sommand for all levels - Brochure available for € 10 at the Tourist Office of Mieussy/Sommand - + 33 (0) 450 43 02 72.

And then after the effort, why not dip and splash about in the water:

In the heart of the village of Onnion, facing the Mont Blanc, a heated pool in a pleasant and green environment. Open in July and August: every day from 10:30 am to 7 pm and Saturday until 8 pm, with activities from 8 pm to 9 pm, weather permitting. 2006 novelty: a ludic improvement of the paddling pool with a slide and fountain for children. Information: + 33 (0)450 35 78 64 or (0)450 35 70 43.

Nautical Centre of Annemasse: an outdoor Olympic pool (50m) with a paddling pool and games for children, 1500 m2 of lawn - open on Monday from 12 pm to 8 pm, Tuesday to Friday from 10:30 am to 8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 7 pm. Tariff: € 3.20 for adults and € 1.60 for children.

Photo Vallée Verte: A. Bouvet, Maison de l'Image
Photo Piscine d'Onnion: Arnaud Maudière