The Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally is a gravel bikepacking adventure set in the wild landscapes of Ireland, designed to celebrate the spirit of exploration, endurance, and Celtic heritage. Organised as part of the Pan Celtic Race family, the event offers riders a challenging yet welcoming off-road experience through forests, mountains, coastal tracks, and remote countryside.
The main Long Route covers 136 kilometres with approximately 3,122 metres of elevation gain, while a Short Route of 94 kilometres with 2,115 metres of climbing is also available. An optional 18 km Night Stage adds a further 389 metres of elevation gain, giving riders the chance to experience the Irish landscape under the stars.
The Gravel Rally follows a self-supported philosophy, with riders responsible for their own navigation, food, accommodation, and mechanical repairs. Rather than focusing purely on competition, the event encourages participants to embrace the journey, connect with fellow riders, and enjoy the rugged beauty of Ireland’s lesser-known gravel roads and trails.
With its combination of demanding climbing, remote scenery, and a strong community atmosphere, The Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally offers a memorable bikepacking experience that captures the adventurous spirit of Celtic exploration.
GPS tracks and route files are provided for reference only. Always verify with official event resources before riding.
Based on this event's terrain, difficulty and riding style.
Riders taking on Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally will cover 1000 km.
For Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally, we'd recommend a Gravel Bike — plan on 45-50mm Tubeless tires and a wide-range drivetrain, something like a 38-40T (1x) chainring paired with a 10-51T cassette, to handle the terrain comfortably.
Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally carries an overall difficulty rating of Advanced. The terrain itself is rough, technical terrain for a good stretch of the route, and conditions tend to run cool.
Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally takes place on May 1, 2026. That puts it in spring, when weather can still be unpredictable, so a flexible kit is worth packing.
Pan Celtic Race Gravel Rally runs primarily on gravel, and we'd recommend 45-50mm Tubeless tires to handle it comfortably.