RAIA GRAVEL RACE

RAIA GRAVEL RACE – La Palma del Condado, Spain

• Date: 26 September 2026
• Location: La Palma del Condado, Huelva, Spain
• Distances: 113 km, 67 km
• Event Type: Gravel Race

The Raia Gravel Race returns to the Condado de Huelva region, a landscape defined by the quiet flow of the Tinto and Odiel rivers. This unsupported GPS-navigation gravel race in Spain starts and finishes in the town of La Palma del Condado, offering riders a true test of self-sufficiency and spirit. The event’s name, 'Raia', references the traditional name for the border between Spain and Portugal, evoking a sense of adventure across a storied territory. Participants will navigate a course rich with rural tracks, fast-flowing paths, and technical sections that demand focus.

Two distinct distances are offered to suit different ambitions. The main gravel race in Spain covers 113 kilometres with approximately 1,235 metres of elevation gain. A shorter 'Express' option provides a 67-kilometre route, though its final details are pending. The event also accommodates mountain bikes on the full-length course, allowing a broad range of riders to experience the terrain. With a maximum of 300 places available, the atmosphere remains focused and intimate, centred on the shared challenge of the ride.

The race format is an individual time trial, where each rider navigates the course entirely by GPS. There is no permanent signage or course marking, placing the emphasis squarely on preparation and navigational skill. Riders must carry the official GPX track loaded onto their device. This approach strips the experience back to its essentials: just the rider, the landscape, and the gravel under their tyres. The day begins early, with the race office opening at 07:30 in the Plaza de España for number collection.

The weekend’s activities are centred around La Palma del Condado. A rider briefing is scheduled for Friday evening, allowing participants to settle in and prepare for the day ahead. The race itself departs from the central Plaza de España at 09:00 on Saturday morning. This circular route winds through the region before concluding at the Recinto Ferial, providing a dedicated finish area to welcome riders home. The terrain is characterised by rolling lowlands, with altitudes ranging from just 14 metres to a maximum of 175 metres.

This corner of Andalusia offers a unique backdrop for a gravel adventure. The region is known for its agricultural heritage, and the route reflects this, winding through a patchwork of fields and along quiet service roads. The absence of major climbs creates a course defined by rhythm and consistent effort. For those looking to explore more of the country on two wheels, there are many other gravel events in Spain that capture the nation's diverse geography and welcoming cycling culture.

The Raia Gravel Race is more than a competition; it is an exploration of the frontier spirit from which it draws its name. The self-guided format fosters a profound connection to the landscape and a quiet sense of accomplishment. It’s an opportunity to test one's limits against the clock while immersed in the subtle beauty of the Huelva province. To learn more about the routes, registration, and event specifics, please visit the official event website.