BILO.gravel ULTRA

BILO.gravel ULTRA – Grad Bjelovar, Croatia

• Date: 19 September 2026
• Location: Bjelovar, Croatia
• Distances: 210 km / 2,500 m elevation
• Event Type: Self-supported ultra gravel

The BILO.gravel ULTRA presents a formidable challenge in the world of ultra cycling Croatia, set against the quiet landscapes of Bilogora and Moslavina. From the start in the town of Bjelovar, the event is a true test of endurance and spirit. It asks riders to dig deep over a long and demanding course, rewarding them not with a podium, but with the quiet satisfaction of completing a significant personal journey through a beautiful and unheralded part of the country.

The route itself is a single, continuous loop of 210 kilometres, accumulating around 2,500 metres of elevation gain. The parcours is designed to showcase the region’s varied terrain, with approximately two-thirds of the distance on gravel surfaces and the remainder on quiet, paved backroads. Riders will navigate from rolling vineyard hills into deep, dense forests, finding a rhythm through relentless climbs and fast-flowing sections. Each participant receives a GPX file to guide their way.

This is a self-supported ride in its classic form. While there are designated checkpoints at local cafes, bakeries, and shops along the way, riders are responsible for their own nutrition, hydration, and mechanical support. Carrying essential tools and spares is mandatory. This format strips the ride back to its essence, placing the focus squarely on the individual experience, resourcefulness, and the simple act of moving across the landscape under one's own power. The event is a benchmark for ultra cycling in Croatia.

The weekend begins on Friday evening with a rider briefing, pasta, and drinks at the Artearia Hotel, offering a moment of community before the early start. The ride officially begins at 6:00 on Saturday morning from the town promenade at Trg Eugena Kvaternika. There is no time limit, allowing each rider to approach the day at their own pace. A post-ride dinner awaits finishers back at the hotel, providing a warm welcome at the end of a long day in the saddle.

Beyond the main event, the organisers foster a sense of shared experience. Riders can opt to join a relaxed, guided recovery ride on Sunday morning, complete with a coffee and brunch stop. This provides a gentle way to wind down the weekend, share stories from the road, and absorb the atmosphere of Bjelovar. It’s a thoughtful addition that complements the intensity of the main ride, extending the community feel of the event beyond the finish line.

The route through Bilogora and Moslavina reveals a side of the country that is often overlooked. The quiet roads and forested tracks offer a peaceful riding environment, far from the bustle of the more famous coastal regions. The character of the landscape is central to the event, providing a constant, compelling backdrop to the physical effort. For those interested in exploring more of the country on two wheels, there are many other gravel events in Croatia that explore its diverse regions.

The BILO.gravel ULTRA is an invitation to push personal limits and experience the deep satisfaction of a long-distance ride. It’s an adventure defined by the crunch of gravel under tyres, the quiet hum of the forest, and the inner resolve required to keep pedalling. Full details on the route, registration, and optional extras can be found on the official event website.