Spätzle Gravel King

Spätzle Gravel King – Bad Waldsee, Germany

• Date: September 18–20, 2027

• Location: Bad Waldsee, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

• Distances: 432 km (7,940 m elevation gain)

• Event Type: Self-supported ultracycling gravel event / race

The Spätzle Gravel King is the off-road distance of the Allgäu & Spätzle ultracycling event, founded by endurance cyclist Daniel Steinhauser. Based out of Bad Waldsee, the gravel route spans approximately 432 km with 7,940 meters of vertical gain across the Allgäu region. The route is 100 percent pre-scouted and designed to use low-traffic roads and paths, with GPX files provided to riders in advance of the start.

The event operates entirely under self-supported rules. Participants must carry their own gear or rely exclusively on commercial services that are equally available to all riders, such as shops, restaurants, and hotels. Private support from friends or family is prohibited, and adherence to the route is monitored by course marshals and mandatory live tracking via Follow My Challenge, which requires a refundable deposit. Riders can enter solo or in pairs, sharing equipment and drafting while remaining strictly self-sufficient.

Participants can register under either the Adventure or Race classification. The Adventure wave starts earlier on Friday (scheduled from 11:00) to allow more riding time before the Saturday cut-off, while the Race wave departs later in the afternoon (scheduled from 15:00) for those targeting a sub-27-hour finish. Event staff remain at the finish line into Sunday morning to receive late finishers with a warm meal.

The event basecamp is hosted at Sportpalast Bad Waldsee, which offers indoor sleeping areas in fitness rooms, restrooms, showers, and dedicated parking spaces for camper vans. A mandatory pre-ride bike check inspects roadworthiness, helmets, and night equipment, including lights and reflective gear. Organizers recommend a minimum tire width of 35 mm for the gravel route. Additional details and route updates are available on the official event website.