Hope 1000

Hope 1000 – Romanshorn, Switzerland

• Date: June 2027
• Location: Romanshorn, Switzerland
• Distances: 1000 km
• Event Type: Bikepacking

The Hope 1000 is a self-supported bikepacking race in Switzerland, a demanding 1000-kilometre journey from Romanshorn on the shores of Lake Constance to Montreux on Lake Geneva. It follows the ethos of classic unsupported riding: no entry fee, no outside support, no prize money. Riders are entirely self-reliant, carrying their own gear and navigating a pre-determined GPX track. This event has established itself as a significant test of endurance and resourcefulness since bringing the spirit of bikepacking to the Swiss landscape in 2015.

The route itself is described as a masterpiece, a formidable adventure across the country. It connects iconic mountain passes like the Grosse and Kleine Scheidegg near Grindelwald with quieter, lesser-known areas near Finsterwald and into the French-speaking regions of Switzerland. The terrain is demanding, defined by significant climbing and varied surfaces that will test both rider and equipment. Navigation is solely by GPS, requiring participants to be comfortable with following a digital track without the aid of course markings or marshals.

As a pure bikepacking event, there are no support vehicles, mechanics, aid stations, or designated rest stops provided by the organisers. Participants must source all their food, water, and accommodation along the route from commercial or public sources. This unsupported format fosters a unique sense of freedom and personal challenge. The clock runs non-stop from start to finish, with each rider deciding their own strategy for riding, resting, and resupplying across the varied landscapes of this bikepacking race in Switzerland.

The journey begins in Romanshorn and traverses the breadth of the nation, exposing riders to the diverse topography and culture of the region. From the rolling hills near Lake Constance to the high alpine scenery of the Bernese Oberland, the Hope 1000 offers a deep immersion into the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps. For those interested in similar challenges, there are many other gravel events in Switzerland that share this spirit of adventure, though few match the scale of this particular undertaking.

This event is not for the unprepared. It is a true test of a rider's physical and mental fortitude, demanding careful planning, reliable equipment, and a resilient mindset. The satisfaction comes not from a finisher's medal but from the profound experience of crossing a country under one's own power. More details and the GPX track for individual attempts can be found on the official event website.