This story was originally published in print, in the Summer issue of The Outdoor Journal, you can subscribe here. As a mountain biker I'm always searching for the next big adventure all over the world. Ten years ago I did my first mountain bike trip when I was fourteen to Portes du Soleil and since then my hunger for new trails, countries and cultures has only grown.
I define this passion as a personal fascination to break down boundaries and add another country to the bucket list; my bike is just the way I do it. When I arrived at Geneva airport with my 'rides-way-better-than-me-friend', Rui, I was excited to not cross the border to France like I usually do, and stay for the first time in Switzerland.
We'd be sharing a Bike Verbier chalet with other guests, all from the United Kingdom, which I thought directly translated into good times on the trails, lifts and pubs. Sixteen years ago Lucy visited the Verbier region during her winter holidays and ended up falling in love with Phil, who is now her boyfriend and business partner.
We soon understand that they complement each other. Lucy is a true organizer, and Phil Even so, his childlike personality is what makes the coming week so special; during breakfast, uplifts and when riding some seriously delightful singletrack. All ways lead to the front yard garden where mountains emerge massively in front of the chalet. A round just-baked cake is on top of a huge kitchen table, "is that for us Lucy?
We have some pedalling tomorrow", she smiles and cuts a big slice of highly-caloric fluffy blueberry cake for me and Rui, accompanied by a big cup of coffee.
