Gravel Across Alps: Graalps

GRAAALPS is an ultra-distance gravel adventure that takes riders across the heart of the Alps, linking France, Italy, and Switzerland on a spectacular journey of legendary mountain passes, rugged gravel tracks, and breathtaking alpine scenery. As part of the Race Across Series, it combines demanding terrain with professional organisation and a semi-self-supported format.

The event offers three distances—300 km, 500 km, and the flagship 800 km route. The longest course starts in Mandelieu-la-Napoule on the French Riviera and finishes in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, crossing three countries and accumulating approximately 21,000 metres of elevation gain. Riders tackle a carefully designed mix of paved alpine roads and gravel tracks, with around 22% of the route off-road.

Unlike a fully self-supported bikepacking race, GRAAALPS follows a semi-autonomous format. Riders remain responsible for their own navigation and pacing, while organiser-operated Basecamps provide designated places to rest, refuel, and access drop bags, allowing competitors to recover before continuing into the mountains.

From the Mediterranean coastline to high Alpine passes, GRAAALPS delivers an ever-changing landscape of dramatic valleys, remote gravel roads, and iconic climbs. With relentless elevation, technical terrain, and unforgettable scenery, it has quickly established itself as one of Europe’s premier gravel ultra-distance events.