Opened in 2020, the Espace VTT de Chantelouve, in Bessans, will be awarded the "Stade XCO" (Cross
Country Olympique) by the French Cycling Federation on August 8, 2025. Recognition of the quality of this unique facility in France.
Olympic Cross Country Stadium
"Summer 2025 marks the official certification of the Espace VTT de Chantelouve as an Olympic Cross Country Stadium (XCO). For several years now, this facility has complemented Bessans' and Haute Maurienne Vanoise's extensive range of cycling circuits: it has all the features needed for youngsters, leisure sports enthusiasts and the most seasoned riders to come and train, test themselves or simply have fun on their bikes. A mountain bike stadium in a unique mountain setting, with trails for all levels, from beginners to those preparing for major sporting events," explains Yvan Clolus, National Mountain Bike Trainer.
What is an XCO stage?
The XCO (Olympic Cross Country) mountain bike stadium is a combination of natural
sections and technical areas, designed to take full advantage of the terrain's natural
characteristics. The term "stadium" here does not mean a space with a grandstand, lawn, lighting, etc. On the contrary, the Haute Maurienne Vanoise XCO Stadium is based on a network of integrated sections and trails in the heart of the mountains. Each section offers one or more alternatives, with different technical levels and possible escape routes.
The Stade VTT XCO can accommodate a wide range of riders, from extracurricular activities to
weekly club sessions, not forgetting the free activities of amateur riders and top-level athletes. "The French MTB cross-country team and its athletes are used to coming to Bessans for training. The variety of surrounding paths and roads, the quality of the local sports infrastructure and the spirit of nature that dominates here make this a magical place to prepare or recharge your batteries, summer or winter", explains Yvan Clolus.
Espace VTT de Chantelouve becomes "Stade VTT XCO Haute Maurienne Vanoise".
The "Stade VTT XCO" label will be officially awarded by the French Cycling Federation on August 8, 2025. To mark the occasion, the Chantelouve MTB area will change its name to "Stade VTT XCO Haute Maurienne Vanoise".
"Already awarded the "Site VTT FFC" label, Haute Maurienne Vanoise has taken another step forward in
recognizing its commitment to mountain biking, thanks to a dedicated area: the Stade VTT XCO Haute Maurienne Vanoise, with its strong identity and remarkable assets," explains Nathalie Furbeyre, Vice-President of Tourism and Outdoor Activities at the Haute Maurienne Vanoise Community of Municipalities.
"A variety of circuits adapted to all levels, with flowing, technical or challenging trails, meet the demands of Olympic cross-country training. L'Espace is located in an exceptional natural setting, facing the Vanoise National Park and snow-capped peaks, with a rich and preserved biodiversity of larch forests, alpine flora and wild fauna", explains Nathalie Furbeyre.
