Alps Gravel Epic
ExtremeConquer legendary alpine passes on gravel roads. Breathtaking mountain scenery with challenging climbs through the Swiss Alps.
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▌ Conquer legendary alpine passes on gravel roads
Europe ultra event organized by Swiss Gravel Federation
13 SCORING DIMENSIONS
EFFORT MATRIX
EXPERIENCE MATRIX
GREEN FLAGS
- [+]195 km of extreme gravel through Graubünden
- [+]5,600 m of climbing — proper elevation
- [+]Self-supported / ultra format = adventure focus
- [+]Organized by Swiss Gravel Federation
- [+]Varied terrain: Mountain Gravel, Alpine Roads, Single Track
- [+]European gravel-festival culture (post-ride food / beer scene)
RED FLAGS
- [!]Extreme rating — only attempt with prior ultra experience
- [!]Self-supported — no aid stations expected
- [!]Peak summer — heat + sun exposure are real
- [!]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
5,600 m of climbing means raw watts matter less than grinding low and steady. Your gearing choice will shape your day.
TIRE INTEL
Mixed gravel with no extreme demands — go for rolling speed.
WEATHER PLAYBOOK
Graubünden in mid-summer (July): expect mild conditions — pack for variable weather. Always check 7-day forecast race week and pack a packable shell.
PACING PLAYBOOK
Sit in. Let the start sort itself out. Pace by feel, not by rivals.
Where the field shatters. Stick to your power numbers, not the surge.
Save one match. The last 20% is where placement is decided.
WHAT TO FEAR
- [!01]Heat exhaustion + dehydration on exposed sections
- [!02]Late-race climbs after the legs are gone
- [!03]Resupply gaps — carry more food than you think
- [!04]Wall-style punchy climbs that destroy rhythm
INSIDER INTEL
“The climbs are the whole point at Alps Gravel Epic. 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. Alps Gravel Epic captures that perfectly.”
RACE LOGISTICS
Self-supported by design. Carry your own food, water, tools, and shelter. Resupply from towns en route.
Plan for 6-8 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
Alps Gravel Epic is a destination-worthy ultra event in Switzerland. A solid bucket-list addition.