Tour Gravel Vosgien

Tour Gravel Vosgien – Ensisheim, France

• Date: July 3, 2027
• Location: Ensisheim, France
• Distances: 350 km, 700 km, 1200 km
• Event Type: Bikepacking

The Tour Gravel Vosgien is a self-supported bikepacking event in France, beginning from the town of Ensisheim. With three distinct distances on offer, riders can select a route that aligns with their personal goals and desired level of challenge. The event unfolds over a week in early July, inviting participants into the quiet landscapes and rolling terrain of the Vosges mountains. The routes are designed as a journey through the region's rich natural and cultural heritage, a true test of endurance and self-reliance.

Each of the three routes—350 km, 700 km, and 1200 km—has been carefully planned to showcase the diversity of the area. Riders will find themselves on a mix of quiet roads, forest tracks, and flowing trails. The routes for this bikepacking event in France are known to be fairly rolling, with some more demanding sections interspersed to keep things interesting. A tyre width of around 40mm is suggested for comfort and to mitigate fatigue over the long distances and varied surfaces encountered.

The event begins on a Friday evening with a pre-departure briefing and a welcome drink in Ensisheim. Participants have access to free camping at the start location, complete with showers and toilets, creating a communal atmosphere before the grand depart. The ride itself commences early on Saturday morning, with all distances starting together. This shared start allows for a sense of camaraderie, even as riders eventually find their own pace and rhythm on the diverging paths of this bikepacking event in France.

As riders traverse the course, they will encounter a remarkable collection of sights. The routes wind through the Vosges Regional Nature Park, past fortified castles, and alongside mountain lakes like Lac Blanc and Lac de Gérardmer. The parcours also takes in iconic climbs such as the Grand Ballon and La Planche des Belles Filles. The shorter 350 km and 700 km routes conclude in Saverne, while the formidable 1200 km loop brings riders back to the start in Ensisheim, completing their long journey.

The spirit of the Tour Gravel Vosgien is one of discovery and human connection. The intertwining routes mean that participants on different distances often cross paths, sharing moments on the road or at checkpoints. The landscape offers a rich tapestry of Alsatian, French, and German influences, seen in the architecture of the villages and the local culture. It's an experience that goes beyond just the physical challenge, making it a memorable bikepacking event in France and a highlight among other gravel events in France.

This is a journey defined by breathtaking scenery and personal resolve. From the vineyards of Alsace to the high mountain passes, the routes provide a constant sense of wonder. The organisation includes key support like a GPS tracker, checkpoint validation, and volunteer presence, while remaining true to its unsupported ethos. For complete details and registration, please refer to the official event website.