On Your Bike: Join The Lodge For Exclusive Mountain Biking Retreat Hosted By Swiss World Champions Kathrin Stirnemann & Joris Ryf

Taking place next September, here’s everything a luxury adventurer needs to know about this all-inclusive escape in the Swiss Alps with world-class biking trails, expert coaching and lavishly restorative relaxation


 

The Lodge, Virgin Limited Edition’s luxurious nine-bedroom mountain chalet in Verbier, part of the award-winning brand within Virgin Hotels Collection, is launching an exclusive Mountain Biking Retreat between 6-13 September 2026. Created for riders of all levels, who want more than just great trails, the retreat will be hosted by Swiss World Champions Kathrin Stirnemann and Joris Ryf. The curated programme will blend elite-level coaching, unforgettable Alpine riding and restorative downtime that also allows guests to experience the exceptional all-inclusive hospitality that The Lodge is renowned for.

Designed to suit all levels of ability and with spaces for up to 18 riders, the retreat welcomes everyone from assured, performance-driven riders to those newer to mountain biking and keen to build skills and confidence.

Each day will be thoughtfully structured around riding, recovery and relaxation, with coaching designed to help participants to progress at their own pace. Guests are welcome to bring their own bikes or choose from a selection, including e-mountain bikes, provided complimentary by Swiss brand Thömus.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Verbier’s legendary trails offer the perfect playground for developing technique, flow and control. Under the guidance of the two expert coaches, guests can expect high-level, supportive coaching across varied terrain, along with the freedom to enjoy the mountains in a way that feels both exhilarating and unhurried. 

During each day of the retreat, nutritious, seasonal and Alpine inspired dishes will be served, created by The Lodge’s Head Chef, Gerwin Brand, who previously worked at the two Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire. From generous yet balanced breakfasts to trail picnics and afternoon tea, the curated menus will fuel performance and support recovery, while still feeling indulgent.

The evenings will be geared towards switching off, sharing stories from the trails over fine wines, and sinking into the chalet’s relaxed luxury with complimentary use of The Lodge’s spa facilities including indoor pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, sauna, gym and treatment rooms. Each cycling guest will also enjoy a complimentary sports massage designed to supercharge recovery during their stay.

Non-cycling guests are also very welcome during the retreat, where the full Lodge experience will await them. From complimentary use of the spa facilities followed by relaxed afternoons soaking in the views from the terrace to additional activities in the wider area, such as self-guided hiking, tennis and golf.

About the coaches:


Kathrin Stirnemann is one of Switzerland’s most accomplished mountain bike athletes and coaches. She is Cross Country Eliminator World Champion (2014 and 2017), E-Bike Vice World Champion (2021 and 2025) and National Coach of the Swiss Cycling Women’s Mountain Bike Team. Her coaching style is calm, structured and highly effective, focusing on technique, efficiency and confidence. 

Joris Ryfis a leading figure in the global e-MTB scene. He is E-Mountain Bike World Champion (2023), E-Mountain Bike Vice World Champion (2025), a multiple World Cup winner, and technique coach for the Specialized Factory Racing Team. Joris brings a performance-driven yet accessible approach, helping riders refine flow, control and technical precision.

The Lodge’s mountain biking retreat includes:


  • Luxury accommodation at The Lodge with length of stay options between three- and seven-nights during 6-13 September 2026
  • Half a day of coaching/guided cycling per day of the retreat with options including enduro riding and uphill/downhill sessions in the Verbier bike park, Col de Mille e-mountain bike ride, Les Shlérondes and Vertigo trails
  • Transfers to activities and bike park tickets as part of the itinerary are included
  • All food and drinks, from hearty alpine breakfasts to après-ride cocktails and fine wines
  • A bike mechanics and maintenance workshop
  • One complimentary 30-minute sports massage per guest
  • Secure bike storage with charging points
  • Exclusive ‘The Lodge’ cycling shirt or vest to take home as a memento of the retreat
  • Complimentary bike testing from Thömus, giving guests the chance to ride top tier bikes on iconic alpine terrain

Start the adventure
Wallet: Rates for the Mountain Biking Retreat start from CHF 550 per person, per night (based on two people sharing) for a minimum three-night stay. For those wishing to linger a little longer, a full-week stay is available from CHF 500 per person, per night.
How: Spaces for just 18 riders available. For further details visit virginlimitededition.com, call 0800 716 919 or e-mail enquiries@virginlimitededition.com to book.
When: 6-13 September 2026

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