Introduction: Gravel Racing Across Europe Is Exploding in 2025
Gravel cycling has taken over Europe—and 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet for competitive and adventure-focused off-road riding. From the Pyrenees to the Nordic wilderness, gravel races in Europe now cover every terrain imaginable, blending ancient roads, forest trails, and alpine climbs into unforgettable events.
Whether you’re after ultra-endurance tests, scenic point-to-point challenges, or professionally organized UCI gravel qualifiers, this guide to the top 10 gravel races in Europe for 2025 will help you find the perfect ride. These are not just races—they’re full experiences rooted in community, challenge, and pure gravel passion.
1. The Traka – Girona, Spain
Widely regarded as one of the best gravel races in Europe, The Traka 2025 is set in the gravel mecca of Girona, Spain—a hotspot for professional cyclists and amateurs alike. This Girona gravel race offers diverse terrain, including forested tracks, rolling farmlands, and dry, technical gravel sectors. Spain gravel cycling fans flock here each spring to enjoy the warm weather, world-class support, and Girona’s thriving bike culture. As one of the most anticipated gravel bike events in Europe, The Traka blends competition and celebration seamlessly.
Read more about The Traka here
2. Badlands – Andalusia, Spain
Badlands 2025 is Spain’s most iconic ultra-endurance gravel bike race and one of the most extreme in Europe. Riders tackle the deserts of Gorafe, climb into the Sierra Nevada mountains, and descend to the Mediterranean coast. As a leader in ultra-endurance gravel cycling in Europe, Badlands challenges mental toughness, navigation skills, and physical stamina like few others. It is the ultimate test for cyclists seeking a no-support, raw terrain gravel adventure deep in Spain’s Andalusian wilderness.
3. The Rift – Iceland
Among the most visually spectacular gravel races in Europe, The Rift Iceland 2025 offers riders a once-in-a-lifetime experience on black sand deserts, lava fields, and glacial river crossings. It’s more than a race—it’s an expedition into the heart of Iceland’s most surreal landscapes. For those searching for extreme gravel events in Europe, this Iceland gravel bike race delivers both technical challenges and soul-stirring views. The Rift stands as a top-tier destination for volcanic gravel cycling adventures.
4. The Gralloch – Scotland
The Gralloch 2025 is the UK’s premier UCI gravel series race and has earned its place as one of the top competitive gravel races in Europe. Hosted in Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland, this event features fast forest roads, steep punchy climbs, and tight racing among elite and amateur riders. As part of the UCI gravel event Europe circuit, it offers a world-class course and is a qualifying race for the Gravel World Championships. For riders looking for UK gravel races with international prestige, The Gralloch is the crown jewel.
Read more about The Gralloch here
5. Falling Leaves Lathi – Finland
Falling Leaves Lahti 2025 is quickly becoming one of the most picturesque and rider-friendly gravel events in Northern Europe. As part of the fast-growing Finland gravel race scene, this event offers a seasonal twist—taking place amid Finland’s stunning autumn foliage. Riders experience crisp air, peaceful lakes, and golden forests, all while navigating smooth Nordic gravel roads. What sets this event apart from other Nordic gravel cycling races is its relaxed atmosphere combined with professional-level organization. If you’re looking for a scenic, community-focused Lahti gravel event that captures the essence of Finnish gravel culture, Falling Leaves Lahti is the ride to mark on your calendar.
Read more about Falling Leaves Lathi here
6. Nordic Gravel Series – Bergslagen, Sweden
The Bergslagen edition of the Nordic Gravel Series 2025 is one of the most scenic gravel races Sweden has to offer. Winding through forests, lakes, and historic mining towns, this event embodies everything that makes Scandinavian gravel events special: nature, solitude, and soul. Perfect for both competitive cyclists and weekend warriors, this is gravel racing in Sweden at its finest. If you’re planning your 2025 European gravel calendar, this is a must-add.
Read more about Bergslagen here
7. Raiders Gravel – Scotland
Raiders Gravel 2025 is a multi-day gravel stage race that winds through the remote and beautiful Galloway Forest Park. For riders seeking a true gravel adventure, this Scotland gravel event offers mixed terrain, challenging climbs, and stunning moorland views. As one of the leading multi-day gravel stage races in Europe, it combines the endurance of bikepacking with the structure of an elite race. This UK-based event is a standout for those chasing tough terrain and unforgettable scenery.
Read more about Raiders Gravel here
8. Gravel One Fifty – Netherlands
Gravel One Fifty 2025 is one of the Netherlands’ premier gravel events, known for combining competitive spirit with scenic Dutch landscapes. This Dutch gravel race begins in the historic village of Veenhuizen and features a fast, varied course through northern forests, heathlands, and quiet canal-side gravel tracks. As part of the elite tier of Netherlands gravel cycling events, Gravel One Fifty has become a staple for riders seeking a fast-paced but approachable European gravel sportive. For gravel cyclists looking for a well-organized, highly regarded event in the heart of Dutch cycling country, this is the one to beat.
Read more about Gravel One Fifty here
9. Gravel Challenge Blaavands Huk – Denmark
Gravel Challenge Blaavands Huk 2025 is Denmark’s leading gravel cycling event, known for its blend of beachside trails, pine forests, and open farmland. With strong local support and beautifully marked routes, it has grown into a top gravel event in Northern Europe. This Denmark gravel race is ideal for those looking for Nordic gravel cycling with a relaxed, rider-focused feel. Its coastal winds and unique terrain make it an exciting addition to any European gravel itinerary.
Read more about Gravel Challenge Blaavands Huk here
10. Italy Divide – Italy
Italy Divide 2025 is a self-supported ultra-endurance race that takes riders across the spine of Italy, from ancient Roman roads to the Dolomites. It’s one of the most ambitious and rugged gravel bikepacking races in Europe. Known for its long distances and jaw-dropping landscapes, the Italy Divide represents the heart of Italian gravel cycling. As one of the most difficult ultra gravel races on the continent, it draws a passionate global following. If you’re serious about gravel bikepacking in Italy, this is the ultimate challenge.
Read more about Italy Divide here
Final Thoughts: The Best of European Gravel in 2025
The gravel race scene in Europe is more exciting and diverse than ever. Whether you’re aiming for a UCI podium, seeking a remote bikepacking adventure, or riding just for the love of gravel, these 10 gravel races in Europe for 2025 offer the best mix of challenge, scenery, and community. From Girona to Iceland, Scotland to the Dolomites, the continent is packed with opportunities to push yourself on two wheels.
