Grefillinn Gravel Race

Grefillinn Gravel Race – Reykjavík, Iceland

• Date: 2026-08-08
• Location: Reykjavík, Iceland
• Event Type: Gravel Race

The Grefillinn Gravel Race in Iceland on August 8, 2026, invites riders to experience the raw, untamed landscapes shaped by glaciers and the often-harsh highland weather. This event, whose name subtly hints at both the tools that carve the gravel roads and an expression of awe, offers a profound journey into the heart of Iceland's unique geological tapestry. It is a chance to connect with the land, feel the crisp air, and embrace the unpredictable beauty of the Icelandic wilderness under your tyres.

Starting and finishing in Logalandi, the race hub, the 207 km course immediately ascends into Þverárhlíð. Riders will navigate across the Kjarrá river, above Örnólfsdal, before descending towards Lindarhvol and then climbing up Norðurárdalur. This section may present a headwind, a quintessential element of the Icelandic experience, challenging both body and spirit as the vastness unfolds around the riders.

From there, the route traverses Grjótháls and returns to Þverárhlíð, crossing the Þverá river near the Grjót farm. By this point, riders can expect to have encountered several water crossings, adding to the adventurous character of the Grefillinn Gravel Race. These elemental encounters are part of the immersion into a landscape where nature’s forces are ever-present and influential.

The journey continues through Hvítársíða, taking a detour through Tunga before ascending Kaldidalur, a highland road offering a glimpse into the country’s wilder regions. This section, while potentially featuring rougher gravel, promises magnificent vistas, provided the mist does not obscure the views of Þórisjökull, Eiríksjökull, and Langjökull. The highest point on Kaldadalur reaches approximately 700 meters, a true high point in the other gravel events in Iceland.

A rewarding descent awaits through Lundarreykjadalur, with a final loop through Flókadalur before returning to Logalandi. The terrain is a blend of challenging climbs, fast descents, and rough gravel, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural wonders. Every pedal stroke deepens the connection to this ancient land, revealing its geological stories and evoking a sense of powerful solitude.

The event is more than a race; it is an expedition into the core of Icelandic nature. The landscapes traversed are not merely backdrops but active participants in the experience, with the raw gravel under tyres echoing the untamed spirit of the island. Being supported by Krauma, the natural geothermal baths at Deildartunguhver, intertwines the event with the very geological heart of Iceland, inviting reflection and rejuvenation.

The Grefillinn Gravel Race offers a unique opportunity to witness the serene grandeur of Iceland, challenging riders physically and mentally while providing moments of profound connection with the environment. It is a journey that will linger in memory, marked by the vast skies, the distant glaciers, and the persistent crunch of official event website.