Registrations for the 8th Pass’Portes du Soleil, a lift-assisted French Alps circuit event, open at 9am GMT on the 10 February.

Entries are strictly limited so register early to be sure to get your place. Last year 1000 people registered in the first hour and 3000 registered in the first 24 hours. 94% of these participants said they hoped to take part again, so the race to register is likely to be fought harder than ever.

The Pass’Portes du Soleil is fast becoming a ‘must-do’ event for all mountain bikers, and in response to demand this year’s event will be bigger than ever. For the first time it will take place over three days instead of two, increasing the number of participants from 4500 to 6000.

Torgon in Switzerland is rejoining the list of starter resorts, bringing the total up to 9 resorts. This gives participants even more choice about where to start their ride, while also ensuring riders are spread across the area and not queuing too long for lifts, or for singletrack!

The Pass’Portes du Soleil MTB route is 80km long with 1000 metres of climbing and a total of 6000 metres of descent thanks to the 16 chairlifts used. At various points along the route less experienced riders can choose an easier trail, while regular riders take a more challenging path. Eight food stops dotted around the course will keep riders fuelled up with scrumptious local specialities such as mountain sausages, raclette (local melted cheese), baguette, and cake.

The Pass’Portes MTB show will be held in Les Gets this year. Riders and visitors can test top of the range new bikes from the sport’s big-name manufacturers and watch incredible demos and shows all weekend.

Registration for the event is just €45 (for one day), which you can do right here www.passportesdusoleil.com