GRAVEL ACROSS
Our concept is based on Gravel, Gravel Across Alps, or GRAAALPS for short.
From the CĂŽte d'Azur to the Swiss Alps, the ultimate transalpine gravel adventure!
GRAAALPS takes you through mythical mountain passes and secret gravel trails, crossing Switzerland, Italy and France. A semi-autonomous epic in which every ascent, descent and border crossing writes a new page in your adventure. A choice of three distances - 800 km, 500 km or 300 km - to ride solo, facing yourself and the mountains.
THE GENESIS OF GRAAALPS
It all began with a vision: to link two worlds as different as they are emblematic: the Mediterranean and the Alps.
On one side, Mandelieu, jewel of the CĂŽte d'Azur, with its golden shores bathed in light. On the other, Crans-Montana, perched in the heart of the Swiss Alps, with its majestic panoramas and pure air.
From this meeting was born GRAAALPS, a gravel adventure that traces a thread between the sea and the mountains, between Mediterranean gentleness and Alpine splendor. More than a sporting event, it's a journey of initiation that invites everyone to explore contrasting landscapes, to measure themselves against the road and against themselves, in a grandiose setting that unites two unique territories.
CRANS - MONTANA, SWITZERLAND
Perched in the heart of the majestic Swiss Alps, Crans-Montana offers incomparable Alpine panoramas and a perfect harmony of outdoor activities and refined lifestyle. A popular resort for winter sports enthusiasts, in summer it transforms itself into a sanctuary for hiking and golf amidst lush green landscapes.
With its authentic village atmosphere, top-of-the-range infrastructure and grandiose backdrop of snow-capped peaks, Crans-Montana appeals to those seeking the ideal balance between mountain serenity and recreational elegance.
Nestled on the CĂŽte d'Azur, Mandelieu beckons with its golden beaches along the Mediterranean. This idyllic destination perfectly combines coastal charm and luminous landscapes, offering a veritable haven of sunny relaxation, imbued with Mediterranean elegance.
Mandelieu, the pearl of the French Riviera, charms as much by its golden beaches as by the history of the ChĂąteau de la Napoule and the liveliness of its seafront. The perfect blend of leisure, culture and seaside lifestyle.
MANDELIEU,
CĂTE D'AZUR
THE GROAD
SEMI-AUTONOMY
Sleep, eat, refuel and shower: the services available at our Basecamps.
The spirit of GRAAALPS is based on semi-autonomy. This means that, on the road, each participant must manage his or her own equipment, food and repairs, while being able to take advantage of refreshment points and rest areas along the route (the basecamps). This format guarantees the perfect balance between freedom, adventure and safety, leaving each participant responsible for his or her own progress, while relying on attentive organization.
THE QUEST FOR GRAAALPS 2025:
3 DISTANCES, 3 COUNTRIES.
In 2026, three routes are proposed, three unique experiences through the Alps.
800 km: from Mandelieu to Crans-Montana, a complete odyssey between Swiss peaks, Italian passes and the French Riviera.
500 km: from Crans-Montana, the Tour du Mont Blanc Gravel is an intense, wild loop through the heart of the Alps.
300 km: starting from Crans-Montana, a condensed adventure, from epic gravel to the Swiss peaks.
đ A quest for endurance, freedom and exploration across 3 countries and 3 distances.
It's up to you to choose your legend.
Conceived by two former gravel enthusiasts, Nathalie and Fabien, the GRAAALPS routes take you through France, Italy and Switzerland, crossing the Alps twice. Each year, the route changes direction to offer a new perspective.
You'll discover the unique diversity of Alpine and Mediterranean landscapes: mythical passes, forgotten roads, wild valleys and grandiose panoramas. More than just an itinerary, it's a true immersion in the spirit of gravel and ultra-distance.
ATMOSPHERE AND COMMUNITY
Nothing compares to the spirit of GRAAALPS. Here, the difficulty brings people together, the scenery brings them together, and the passion for gravel creates a real community. Each participant lives his or her adventure alone, but shares the same energy: that of crossing the Alps together, beyond borders and kilometers.