Peaks and Plains
ExtremeUnsupported ultracycling event from Magdeburg through the Harz mountains and Magdeburger Borde plains. The 555 km route has a 48-hour limit and mixes mountain passes, plains and quiet roads.
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▌ Unsupported ultracycling event from Magdeburg through the Harz mountains and Magdeburger Borde plains
Europe ultra event organized by Peaks and Plains
12 SCORING DIMENSIONS
EFFORT MATRIX
EXPERIENCE MATRIX
GREEN FLAGS
- [+]555 km of extreme gravel through Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt
- [+]7,300 m of climbing — proper elevation
- [+]Self-supported / ultra format = adventure focus
- [+]Organized by Peaks and Plains
- [+]Varied terrain: Mixed Surface, Mountain Roads, Gravel
- [+]European gravel-festival culture (post-ride food / beer scene)
RED FLAGS
- [!]Ultra distance — needs serious training base
- [!]Extreme rating — only attempt with prior ultra experience
- [!]Self-supported — no aid stations expected
- [!]Details not yet verified — confirm via official site
RIDER FIT
Built for hours in the saddle — your distance
Significant climbing rewards low-watt grinding
Ultra format = guided adventure with timing chips
Self-supported format suits bikepacking instincts
Technical terrain rewards bike-handling
Single-day pace suits crit-style riders less here
555 km is not a race — it's an expedition. Pacing is decided by hours, not km splits, and sleep strategy matters more than power.
TIRE INTEL
Mixed gravel with no extreme demands — go for rolling speed.
WEATHER PLAYBOOK
Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt in spring (May): expect mild conditions — pack for variable weather. Always check 7-day forecast race week and pack a packable shell.
PACING PLAYBOOK
Resist the urge to push. Your race starts in 48 hours, not at km 0.
Eat early, eat often. Sleep matters more than watts now.
Mental low point. Stick to the plan. Most riders bonk here mentally before physically.
Save matches. The finish line will reveal itself when you stop chasing it.
WHAT TO FEAR
- [!01]Late-race climbs after the legs are gone
- [!02]Mental low point on the long, lonely middle section
- [!03]Resupply gaps — carry more food than you think
INSIDER INTEL
“The climbs are the whole point at Peaks and Plains. You don't do this race for the flats.”
“European gravel has a different rhythm — the long lunch stops, the espresso at km 60, the post-race beer that lasts hours. Peaks and Plains captures that perfectly.”
RACE LOGISTICS
Multi-day stage race with full expedition support — lodging, meals, gear transport, and on-course mechanics typically included.
- +Timing chip + bib
- +Course markings + GPX
- +Aid station nutrition + water
- +Neutral mechanical support
- +Medical sweep + first aid
- +Daily meals
- +Gear transport between stages
- -Spare tubes / tubeless plugs
- -Lodging
Camping or shared accommodation at each stage town included or available as upgrade.
Book 6+ months ahead for big events. Check the race partner-hotel list for discounts.
Often the best value for groups. Search the wider race region, not just the start town.
Many gravel events offer on-site camping for a small fee. Check race FAQ.
- ▸Mandatory pre-race brief — non-negotiable attendance.
TRAVEL OPS
Peaks and Plains is a destination-worthy ultra event in Germany. A solid bucket-list addition.