Badlands

Badlands is one of the world’s most iconic self-supported gravel ultracycling races, taking riders deep into the wild landscapes of eastern Andalusia, Spain. Created in 2020, the event has quickly become a benchmark in gravel endurance cycling, combining high mountains, Europe’s only true deserts, and the Mediterranean coast in a single unforgettable route.

The 2026 edition covers approximately 800 kilometres with around 16,000 metres of elevation gain, starting and finishing in Granada. The fixed route is around 85% off-road, following gravel roads, ramblas, desert tracks, and remote mountain trails through Sierra Nevada, Gorafe, Tabernas, Cabo de Gata, and the high-altitude landscapes of Sierra de los Filabres. One of the race’s defining moments is the ascent of Pico Veleta, at 3,396 metres, the highest paved mountain pass in Europe.

Badlands follows a strict self-supported philosophy. Riders are responsible for their own navigation, food, accommodation, and mechanical repairs, with no outside assistance or drafting permitted. The challenge is intensified by extreme weather conditions, where temperatures can exceed 40°C in the deserts during the day and drop close to 0°C at night in the high mountains.

With its relentless climbing, remote terrain, and dramatic contrast between desert, sea, and alpine landscapes, Badlands has earned its reputation as “the wildest gravel challenge in Europe.” It is a race that demands not only physical endurance, but also resilience, preparation, and the ability to thrive in one of the continent’s most unforgiving environments.