The Unsupported Bikepacking Event Crossing The Alps
About Munich Milan Gravel
Munich Milan Gravel is a gravel bikepacking challenge that leads over fast gravel paths, narrow single trails and small asphalt roads from Munich to Milan. The route crosses the Alps from north to south.
Start: Munich
Finish: Milan
Date: August 9 to 16, 2025 (Registration and briefing on 8 August late afternoon/early evening)
Kilometers: 800
Elevation gain: around 13,500 meters
Who for: Gravel people, bikepacking lovers, people looking for a challenge
Rules
Munich Milan Gravel is not an unsupported bikepacking race, but it is a bikepacking event where all participants have agreed to follow some of the rules of the unsupported bikepacking race, even if the rules are less strict than in a race.
Be fair.
Be fair to others.
Be fair to yourself.
- respect the environment
- leave no trace
- respect other people and vehicles
- respect yourself
- respect your limits
Drafting is not allowed except for those riding as a pair. But it is allowed to ride next to each other, talk to each other.
E-Bikes are not allowed. If you want to participate with an E-Bike, feel free to drop a message, we will find a solution for you.
Make sure to stay save, don’t overestimate yourself, make sure to respect local traffic laws, always wear a helmet even on a hot summer day and on an uphill section. Mandatory equipment is:
- helmet
- lights and spare lights
- emergency blanket
Everyone has to follow the given route. You are allowed to leave the route but you have to return to it at the very same point you left it.
If you want to take a shortcut and continue to ride to the finish line, you can do so but you will get a “Did not finish” or something similar.
Plan your ride, check your resupply spots and sleeping options. Support is not allowed. This means, friends and family can watch your dot but nothing else. Book your hotel rooms by yourself, buy your food and drinks at commercial spots.
But: Feel free to help others with technical problems, if someone offers you a tea, you can take it.
There are different laws in the different countries and regions. Make sure to inform yourself and to respect the laws.
For example (not complete):
- wild camping and bivouac in Tirol/Austria not allowed
- traffic lights: red means stop
Every now and then you should check your tracker to see if it is working or not and to see the battery state. The tracker is not just about dotwatching but mainly about your safety.
Charge if necessary.
The main reason for the trackers is the savety aspect. For us as organizers it is good to see all the dots moving.
Valid insurances are mandatory to start at Munich Milan Gravel. It is for your own and for our safety. Mandatory insurances
- liability insurance
- health insurance
- life insurance
Be on time for the accreditation, the briefing and the start. Take your time on the route, enjoy it, take rests. But if you arrive after the finish line closes, be aware that you have to send the tracker back by yourself and that we can not welcome you at the finish line.
A clear mind is important. Make your decisions wisely, ask for help if you are in danger and help others. Take a nap if tired.
The Route
MUNICH
The pulsating heart of Bavaria unites tradition, modernity, and nature. The city impresses with its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and its immediate proximity to the Alps.
BAVARIAN ALPINE FOOTHILLS
INN VALLEY
THE CENTREPIECE OF THE ROUTE
Over three high alpine passes into remote, pristine landscapes far from traffic. Narrow single trails, expansive rugged terrain, exhilarating descents, and breathtaking mountain panoramas define this section. Often, solitary refuges provide the only opportunity to pause, while two imposing reservoirs dominate the scenery. The challenging, rough terrain may be demanding, but the spectacular views reward every effort.
THE VALTELLINA
RUGGED LOMBARDY
LAGO DI COMO
THE LAST STRETCH
From the shores of Lake Como to the vibrant heart of Milan, this region is one of striking contrasts. Mediterranean charm gives way to rolling hills, while abandoned railways and historic canals tell stories of past engineering feats. The route winds through peaceful landscapes and charming villages, gradually revealing the presence of the metropolis. A journey that blends nature, history, and urban energy.
MILAN
Time to celebrate.
FAQ
The best bike is always the bike you already have. You can ride either with a gravelbike or with a MTB. We recommend at least 40 mm tires and an easy gear ratio for all the climbin
We recommend at least 40 mm tires and we recommend profiled tires over slicks.
- helmet
- lights and spare lights
- emergency blanket
We also recommend a repair kit, first aid kit, sleeping pad and sleeping mat, rain gear, powerbank, …
Of course, be patient 🙂
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