Badlands

Badlands – Granada / Almería, Spain

• Date: 2026-08-30
• Location: Granada / Almería, Spain
• Distances: 800km
• Event Type: Self-supported ultra-endurance gravel challenge

For those seeking a profound journey through southern Europe, the Badlands gravel challenge offers an unparalleled adventure across diverse landscapes. This 800km route with over 16,000m of elevation gain winds through the unique territories of Granada and Almería, presenting riders with the stark beauty of Europe's only deserts, the serene expanse of the Mediterranean coast, and the demanding ascent to Pico Veleta, one of the continent's highest cols. The Badlands gravel challenge is a test of spirit and endurance.

The route itself is a tapestry woven from remote gravel tracks and ancient paths. Riders will navigate the sun-baked plains of the Tabernas Desert, its cinematic vistas offering a sense of vastness and solitude. The rhythmic crunch of gravel under tyres becomes a constant companion against a backdrop that shifts from arid badlands to fertile valleys, each turn revealing a new facet of the Spanish interior.

As the journey continues, the landscape transitions towards the captivating Mediterranean coastline, offering a moment of respite and a different kind of beauty. However, the true test awaits in the Sierra Nevada, where the ascent to Pico Veleta demands strength and determination. The thin air and sweeping mountain views create a sense of accomplishment unlike any other in a gravel race in Spain.

The Badlands is a self-supported endeavor, placing the emphasis on individual preparation and resilience. Riders carry all they need, fostering a deep connection with their surroundings and a reliance on their own capabilities. The atmosphere is one of shared challenge and mutual respect among those drawn to this rigorous yet rewarding experience. It is more than a race; it is a pilgrimage.

This region of Spain, from the historical echoes of Granada to the arid beauty of Almería, provides a profound setting for such an undertaking. The geological formations, shaped by millennia of wind and water, tell a silent story of endurance. Riders will pass through protected areas, experiencing the untamed heart of Andalusia, a truly unique location for a gravel race in Spain.

The spirit of the Badlands gravel challenge is one of discovery, both of the land and of oneself. Each pedal stroke contributes to a narrative of perseverance beneath the vast Spanish sky. It is an opportunity to disconnect from the ordinary and immerse oneself in the raw, unfiltered essence of bikepacking in a remarkable part of the world. For more details on the route and experience, visit the official event website.

Exploring the varied terrain of Andalusia on two wheels opens up a world of adventure beyond this event. You can find more other gravel events in Spain that offer their own unique challenges and landscapes, but none quite capture the essence of the wild Badlands gravel challenge.