GranGuanche Audax Gravel
ExtremeSelf-supported audax-style gravel bikepacking event across the Canary Islands. The route covers about 800 km with ferry links, volcanic terrain, remote gravel tracks and paved connectors.
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▌ Self-supported audax-style gravel bikepacking event across the Canary Islands
Europe bikepacking event organized by Outer Detours
14 SCORING DIMENSIONS
EFFORT MATRIX
EXPERIENCE MATRIX
GREEN FLAGS
- [+]800 km of extreme gravel through Lanzarote, Canary Islands
- [+]17,000 m of climbing — proper elevation
- [+]Self-supported / ultra format = adventure focus
- [+]Organized by Outer Detours
- [+]Varied terrain: Gravel, Volcanic Tracks, Mixed Surface
- [+]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
- [!]Off-season date — plan for cold / wet conditions
- [!]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
Smoother surfaces let raw speed talk
Open exposure rewards aero + grit
800 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
Rocky surface = prioritise puncture protection over pure speed.
WEATHER PLAYBOOK
Lanzarote, Canary Islands in mid-winter (January): expect cold conditions, plan for rain and layering. 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]Cold-weather hypothermia — wet rider + low temps = bad day
- [!02]Headwind sectors — pace by feel, not speed
- [!03]Late-race climbs after the legs are gone
- [!04]Rocky descents — pinch flats are common
- [!05]Mental low point on the long, lonely middle section
- [!06]Resupply gaps — carry more food than you think
INSIDER INTEL
“The wind off the water defines the day at GranGuanche Audax Gravel. You either pace by perceived effort or you pay.”
“European gravel has a different rhythm — the long lunch stops, the espresso at km 60, the post-race beer that lasts hours. GranGuanche Audax Gravel captures that perfectly.”
RACE LOGISTICS
Self-supported by design. Carry your own food, water, tools, and shelter. Resupply from towns en route.
Plan for 24+ hour stretches between resupply points. Carry food and purification.
- +Timing chip + bib
- +Course markings + GPX
- -Spare tubes / tubeless plugs
- -Lodging
- -All food and water beyond the start
- -Shelter / sleep system
- -Tracker (rider-supplied for many ultras)
- -Drop bag transport (unless specified)
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.
- ▸GPS device with full route loaded is required, not optional.
TRAVEL OPS
GranGuanche Audax Gravel is a destination-worthy bikepacking event in Spain. A solid bucket-list addition.