Peaks and Plains

Peaks and Plains – Magdeburg, Germany

• Date: 28-30 May 2027
• Location: Kanuklub Börde, Magdeburg, Germany
• Distances: 555 km
• Event Type: Unsupported Ultracycling

The Peaks and Plains is an unsupported ultracycling event in Germany, a challenge that traces a path through the Harz mountains and across the wide-open plains of the Magdeburger Börde. This is a ride defined by contrasts, from the forested climbs of one of Germany’s most storied regions to the expansive flatness that follows. With a 48-hour time limit, the event invites riders to find a steady rhythm and push through the long roads in the country’s heartland.

The journey begins and ends in Magdeburg, setting out from the Kanuklub Börde. From there, the 555-kilometre route heads south into the Harz National Park. The character of this unsupported ultracycling event in Germany is shaped by this initial section, a series of zig-zagging paved passes that accumulate much of the total 7,300 metres of elevation gain. Riders will navigate the highest peaks of the Harz before the profile changes.

After the demanding climbs of the mountains, the route turns back towards Magdeburg from Bad Harzburg. This marks a transition from the peaks to the plains. While the majority of the climbing is done, the open landscapes of the Magdeburger Börde present their own kind of challenge. The terrain flattens, but the ride requires a sustained effort, with a few final climbs testing tired legs before the finish line comes into view.

Participants can enter as a solo rider or in a pair, but the ethos remains one of complete self-sufficiency. Support from third parties is not permitted, and accommodations cannot be booked in advance. This format puts the emphasis on personal planning and resourcefulness, a core tenet of the ultracycling discipline. The event takes place on public roads, and all traffic laws must be respected, reinforcing the individual responsibility of each rider.

The atmosphere of the event is one of focused endurance, set against a backdrop of deep history and natural beauty. It’s an opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the region, from the mystical forests of the Harz to the agricultural heartlands. The experience is shared through live GPS tracking, allowing followers to watch dots move across the map as each rider’s personal journey unfolds. There are many other gravel events in Germany, but few offer this specific blend of peak and plain.

As a test of self-reliance, Peaks and Plains is a classic unsupported ultracycling event. The entry includes live tracker rental, a finisher’s memento, and a selection of professional photos to commemorate the ride. Registration is managed via a lottery system to ensure fair access for all hopeful participants. For full details and registration information, please refer to the official event website. Discover more gravel events in Germany on our destination guide.