Between road cycling and mountain biking, gravel is establishing itself as one of the most dynamic activities around. On 9 August, the Haute Tarentaise will host the first edition of Alpine Gravel, a new event designed to showcase the region's landscapes in a different way.
The start will be given from See, at the gates of Bourg-Saint-Maurice. That morning, several hundred cyclists will set off on paths normally used for walking or mountain biking.
For its first edition, the Alpine Gravel will offer three formats. A timed race of 86 kilometres and nearly 3,000 metres of elevation gain for the most athletic, a 62-kilometre route with 1,900 metres of elevation gain, as well as a non-timed excursion version open in particular to electric-assisted bikes.
«The goal is really to introduce the sector.» explain Loïc Péché, the event organiser, in Le Petit Montagnard. «The scenery is magnificent. You pass through Villaroger, then join Les Arcs, go through alpine pasture and forest areas before returning via the greenway. It’s a real immersion in the Haute Tarentaise.»
Gravel cycling, the new cycling phenomenon
If the Alpine Gravel sees the light of day today, it's also because the discipline has been experiencing spectacular growth for several years. Midway between road cycling and mountain biking, gravel allows you to ride on forest tracks, farm paths, or little-used country roads.
For Loïc Péché, the comparison with running is obvious. «Gravel is a bit like the equivalent of trail running. People are more after nature, wide-open spaces and adventure than pure performance. People want to get off the road, to discover places they wouldn't have seen otherwise.»
This approach appeals to an ever-wider audience. Competitors find new physical challenges, while recreational riders appreciate the freedom offered by this bike, capable of riding almost anywhere.
A showcase for Haute Tarentaise
Behind this first edition also lies a tourist ambition. Supported by the Haute Tarentaise Community of Municipalities, the event must highlight the territory's potential for this growing practice.
The idea goes far beyond a simple sporting event. In the long term, Haute Tarentaise aims to develop a genuine network of permanent gravel routes, accessible to both residents and holidaymakers.
«The aim is to offer identified and structured routes, much like those that already exist for hiking.» Highlight the organiser. «People will be able to come with their bikes, download a GPS track and set off to discover the area at their own pace.»
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A philosophy that perfectly matches the current evolution of mountain tourism, where experience, gentle exploration and the discovery of landscapes are taking on an increasingly important role.
With two months until the deadline, registrations remain open and organisers hope to welcome around 200 participants. For this first event, the ambition is not to break attendance records but to lay the foundations for a lasting fixture.
Find out more
Registration is still open. To take part in the event, click here.
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