E-Mountain Bike, Cross-Country & Gravel Itinerary – Défi 3200

Right from the start, the tone is set by the Chemin des Demoiselles, which allows you to quickly gain height above the resort and reach the ridges. It’s a sustained effort, but the climb already offers some stunning views — remember to look back regularly to take in the panorama.
Once you’ve crossed the ridges, the atmosphere gradually changes: you leave the mountain pastures behind and enter a more rocky landscape, where the presence of marmots serves as a reminder of the area’s wild character.
A gentle, slightly uphill section leading towards the Lacs du Plan and Lac du Sautet gives you a chance to catch your breath before tackling a new challenge: the ascent of the Grand Nord, which takes you up to the Jandri midway point at 2,600 m.
From there, the route veers away from the main trails to enter a more isolated high-mountain environment, where you may still encounter snowfields* early in the season. The slopes at Toura 2,600 then put your physical endurance to the test, before reaching its lake at the end of a welcome short descent.
The summit draws nearer: the Jandri 3200 top station comes into view, whilst the Écrins massif, to your right, accompanies you. The final push is demanding, but the reward is well worth it.
At the summit, at 3,200 m, a 360° panorama unfolds before you. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mont Blanc.
Well done, you’ve conquered the Défi 3200.
A challenging route that must be earned and reveals itself as you ride, ideal for riders seeking a contrast between developed trails and wilder terrain.

*Névé: an area of hard-packed snow that persists at high altitudes during the summer and may cover mountain bike trails.

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