Munich Milan Gravel is a self-supported gravel bikepacking adventure that takes riders from Munich, Germany, to Milan, Italy, crossing the Alps on a carefully designed route that is both demanding and highly rideable. Organised by WE ARE CYCLISTS, the event focuses on beautiful landscapes, flowing gravel roads, and the spirit of long-distance adventure rather than extreme hike-a-bike sections.
The 2026 edition covers 800 kilometres with approximately 14,000 metres of elevation gain, starting in Munich and finishing in Milan. Riders follow a fixed GPX route through Bavaria, the Alpine foothills, and northern Italy, riding a varied mix of fast gravel paths, narrow trails, and quiet asphalt roads while enjoying constant views of the surrounding mountains.
Munich Milan Gravel follows a strict self-supported philosophy. Riders are responsible for their own navigation, food, accommodation, and mechanical repairs, with no outside assistance permitted. The event has a 7.5-day time limit, giving participants enough time to complete the crossing while still requiring careful pacing and planning.
With its balance of challenge, scenery, and rideability, Munich Milan Gravel has quickly become one of Europe’s most attractive gravel bikepacking events. It offers riders the rare opportunity to experience a true Alpine crossing while finishing in one of Italy’s most iconic cycling cities.
Based on this event's terrain, difficulty and riding style.
Riders taking on Munich Milan Gravel will cover 800 km and climb roughly 14000 m over the course of the route.
For Munich Milan Gravel, 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.
Munich Milan Gravel carries an overall difficulty rating of Advanced. The terrain itself is rough, technical terrain for a good stretch of the route, the climbing is steadily rolling, with a healthy amount of climbing, and conditions tend to run mild and generally comfortable.
Munich Milan Gravel takes place on August 8, 2026. That puts it in summer, with long daylight hours, though heat can become a real factor.
Surface-wise, expect gravel throughout Munich Milan Gravel — 45-50mm Tubeless tires are a safe bet.