A self-supported Bikepacking Challenge across The Alps
Your Adventure starts here
DISTANCE
800 km
CLIMBING
14.000 m
TIME LIMIT
7.5 days
DATE
August 8 - 15 2026
The event is already fully booked but you can
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Overview
Munich-Milan Gravel is an unsupported bikepacking adventure from Germany to Italy. Expect a mix of gravel, tarmac and trails – from Bavarian forests to Italian lakes. Ride at your own pace, find your rhythm and enjoy the challenge.
We designed the route to be beautiful and challenging, while still being mostly rideable (see FAQ), with stunning views throughout. It’s challenging, but not too extreme, and offers a fair challenge for every rider.
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 – riders who are littering will be disqualified. So carry your stuff to the next bin
- 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.
Important Information
THE ROUTE IN A FEW WORDS
Starting in Munich, the route winds through the rolling hills of Bavaria, then climbs steeply into the wild beauty of Tyrol. Some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes are on display as you make your way through alpine valleys, quiet gravel roads and hidden trails framed by the highest peaks. The long climbs and fast descents will test your stamina and concentration, but the reward is pure mountain bliss. As you descend into Italy, the landscape softens, with vineyards, turquoise lakes and small mountain villages lining your path. Designed to be challenging yet achievable, the route rewards persistence and endurance, as well as a love of long days in the saddle. Every kilometre brings a new view and a new challenge, not to mention that rare feeling of freedom that only the Alps can offer.
Find out more about the route in the following section.
REGISTRATION & BRIEFING
The evening before the start, riders will receive their cap, tracker, and start bag. We’ll also have a mandatory briefing to go over all the key information for the ride.
From our own experience at ultra events, you’ll definitely want to get some proper rest before the big day — but not on an empty stomach! We’ll organize a pizza dinner for everyone (not included in the entry fee), and of course, we’ll make sure there are gluten-free options available for riders with celiac disease.
START & CHECKPOINTS
We’ll kick things off early in the morning so you have a full day out on the route. But don’t worry – no one rolls out without coffee! There’ll be coffee and a small snack waiting for everyone at the start to get you fueled up for the ride.
We will prepare five checkpoints and you will get a stamp card to collect the stamps. Last year, filling the card was optional, in 2026 it will be mandatory.
We also hope, that we again will have one or two special Checkpoints where you can find a place to rest and where you can get some food.
RESUPPLY OVERVIEW
To CP1: Easy – plenty of shops, farm stands, and gas stations.
To CP2: Austria: no problem. Switzerland: plan ahead,
only a few options in the high mountains.
To CP3: Sparse early on (only a few refuges), then plenty in the valley.
Water can be tricky – refill whenever possible.
To CP4: Easy – towns, cafés, gas stations. Around Lake Como,
many stores stay open late.
To CP5: Frequent shops and villages, but few natural water sources.
Expect to buy bottled water.
To the finish: Plenty of options, but no reliable fountains –
stock up in towns.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Camping: Some riders come fully equipped with tent, sleeping bag, and mat. Along the route, you’ll find campsites that are perfect for self-sufficient riders.
Hotels: Less luggage, more comfort: hotels along the route where you can rest, recharge, and take care of your gear.
Rifugios: In the Alpine sections, rifugios offer simple accommodations and sometimes meals, providing a convenient stop in higher altitudes.
Wild Camping: If you consider wild camping, make sure to check local wild camping regulations in Germany, Austria, Swizzerland and Italy. In most regions it is prohibited!
THE FERRY
When designing the route, we made sure to include a ferry to bring even more variety to this adventure. We will share the ferry schedule in the roadbook provided a few weeks before the start.
WEATHER & OTHER RISKS
The Alps can throw anything at you, even in summer! Expect cool temps, sudden rain, and strong winds, especially at higher altitudes. Nights can get chilly, so make sure your gear keeps you warm and dry. Keep an eye on the forecast before heading into the mountains.
There are a few more things to watch out for: in Switzerland, there’s a reason for all the wooden bears—wildlife encounters can happen, so stay alert. Descents can come surprisingly fast and steep, so take your time and ride carefully. We want everyone to enjoy the ride, not the hospital!
ROAD BOOK
A few weeks before the start, you’ll receive a roadbook with the final route, waypoints, and all the important details. Take the time to study it carefully—knowing the route, distances, resupply options and tricky sections in advance will make your ride safer and more enjoyable.
FINISH IN MILAN
Munich Milan Gravel has not one, but two finish lines. The first finish line stops the clock, allowing you to ride through the city at a relaxed pace to the second finish line. Why? To avoid rushing and to make it safer. Take your time and follow the traffic rules.
We will be at the finish line to welcome every rider who finishes within the time limit.
Route Characteristics
Gucci Gravel: Route up to Checkpoint 1
Welcome to Bavarian gravel paradise!
South of Munich, the route follows smooth gravel roads, short singletracks, and a bit of asphalt. About two-thirds off-road, but 99% rideable. You’ll only need to get off the bike occasionally – for things like a weir or a few wooden steps.
Scenery: Classic pre-Alpine terrain with rolling hills and stunning views of the Alps. Along the way: scenic churches, wide meadows, grazing cows – and maybe even a bit of cowbell symphony.
Steep ramps? Rare – mostly where ancient glacial moraines are in your path.
Swissneyland: Route to Checkpoint 2
From CP1, things kick off with a fast singletrack downhill, followed by smooth gravel roads into the valley. Occasionally interrupted by small steps – but nothing too wild.
In Switzerland, the terrain starts gently… until you hit the first high alpine pass. Surprisingly smooth, with just a few rooty and rocky sections near the top. The very top of the initial descent is steep and loose, but on a wide track. Some decided to push the bike here.
Shortly after comes the second big pass: wide gravel roads all the way up – but steeper than the first and a bit more loose. Your climbing gears will earn their keep here. The descent starts fast and wide, but narrows into a singletrack with some roots and two tight switchbacks followed by a narrow track on the slope. You might have to hike it briefly.
Scenery: This section is seriously stunning. Steep slopes, narrow valleys, picturesque villages, wide alpine pastures, rocky terrain, countless waterfalls, and towering 3000m peaks lining your route. It’s a demanding but epic part of the ride.
Your decision: Route to Checkpoint 3
From CP2, the route continues on solid gravel and flowy singletracks. The climb to the highest point of the route isn’t long, but its lower part is brutally steep – classic Italian concrete with cross grooves. Time to use those bailout gears.
Afterwards, gradients ease but the surface turns chunky. The upper descent is one of the rockiest sections – caution: risk of pinch flats! The rest smooths out and ends on asphalt.
This next stretch is the most asphalt-heavy of the whole route – and trust us, you’ll be glad about it.
Altitude: Together with the previous segment, this part stays high – much of it above 1800 m. That means thinner air and stronger sun. Hydration and pacing matter.
Then comes a long valley: a mix of paved backroads, bike paths and mellow gravel – all rideable, no tech skills needed. But just when you find your rhythm: vineyards! Scenic, but steep ramps ahead.
Next up: the Munich–Milan Gravel route split. Here you have two options and have to make a decision. Either you take the
- Gravel pass – remote, steeper, rougher, no signal, but shorter and beautiful.
Or you chose the
- Asphalt route – smoother, longer, less steep, also scenic.
After merging, you’ll face one of the toughest climbs: steep, rough gravel right after the tarmac ends. Time to dig deep.
Scenery: From high-alpine rock faces and wide views to apple orchards, vineyards, castles and tight medieval alleys. After the split: gorges, quiet villages, panoramic mountain huts – and even a waterfall or two.
Ferry: Route to Checkpoint 4
Gravel fans – you’ll still get a taste here! This segment begins with two solid off-road stretches: first a wide gravel road, then a narrower, slightly more technical singletrack. Both are fast and flowy, and they drop you straight into one of the route’s most spectacular paved descents – tight switchbacks carved into the cliffside with massive views all around.
After that, it’s (almost) all asphalt to Lake Como. A short, tricky segment just before the lake throws in some rocks and narrow turns – stay focused, or hop off briefly if needed. Don’t be disappointed by the tarmac: this is the perfect stretch to recover and prepare for the final push to Milan.
Next up: the ferry across Lake Como – a moment of calm, a scenic break, and a chance to take in the Mediterranean vibe. Just one thing: the ferry doesn’t run at night. Plan ahead!
From the far side, you climb again – mostly on tarmac. The climb to CP4 kicks off with cobbles and small steps. A legendary segment – doable with full focus and fresh legs. But are your legs still fresh at this point?
Scenery: A big shift. Gone are the high alpine rocks – here come palm trees, lake breezes, steep cliffs, and villages with narrow lanes ending right at the water’s edge. Seagulls drift on the wind, waterfalls tumble from above, and the views stretch across the lake to distant towns and peaks. CP4 itself? A scenic gem – protected by heaven, they say.
Italian gravel hits Different: Route to Checkpoint 5
The big alpine climbs are behind you – but this section still packs a punch. Expect rolling hills, quick singletracks, and a few rewarding views. But be warned: Italian gravel hits different. The surface is rideable, but often rough and loose – round stones, slippery patches, and chunky terrain slow you down more than you’d think.
Tarmac? Minimal. Most paved sections disappear quickly, and the gravel keeps coming. You’ll also start to feel the heat of the Po Valley – hot, humid, and energy-draining.
Scenery: A changing landscape – smaller hills now replace high peaks, but the snow-covered mountains still line the horizon. You’ll pass small lakes, views of Lake Como, and trace a winding path around larger towns. One minute you’re on a dreamy singletrack by an old villa, the next you’re weaving past quiet industrial zones. Toward the end? Tight turns along a rusted steel fence.
Final stretch to the Finish Line
The long climbs are behind you. From here, it’s mostly downhill or flat, with just a few short ramps. The views fade, the drama eases. No more big alpine moments – this is all about reaching Milan.
It might look easy on paper, but don’t underestimate it: the remaining singletracks can be slow and technical. Legs are tired, focus is fading, but the finish is calling.
Scenery: The emotional shift is real – mountains, peaks and sweeping views are behind you. Now it’s villages, quiet roads, winding trails, and glimpses of the Milan skyline on the horizon. The gravel gets rare, but there’s one last short off-road climb right before the finish – a final nod to everything you’ve ridden.
Partners & Supporters 2026
An event like Munich Milan Gravel needs supporters. In 2026 we are happy that we have found some amazing brands who believe in our event. We think, they are a great Match!
Focus
This was MMG 2025
Read the commentary at dotwatcher.cc to find out more about Munich Milan Gravel 2025
FAQ
Bike: The best bike is always the bike you already have. You can ride either with a gravelbike or with a MTB.
Tires: We recommend at least 40 mm tires and an easy gear ratio for all the climbing.
Gearing: lighter than 1:1
We have everything, easy rolling gravel, small tarmac roads but also singletrails and especially in Italy the gravel can be rough. So better be prepared and have some energy left for the flat stretch in the end of the event.
Mandatory equipment:
- helmet
- lights and spare lights
- emergency blanket
- high-viz vest
We also recommend a repair kit, first aid kit, sleeping pad and sleeping mat, rain gear, powerbank, …
- puffy jacket
- Rain jacket
- Something warm if you get stuck in cold/wet weather, check the weather forecast two days before leaving.
- repair kit with
- multitool
- pump
- Chain link
- small chain wax/oil
- tubes, patches, repair for tubeless
- extra brake pads
- tape
- spare derailleur hanger
- electronics (charger, powerbank)
- Sleeping equipment
Yes, we offer to drop off one small bag of luggage per person.
We can not transport bike boxes and we can not transport suitcases and big bagpacks.
Of course it depends on where you live. We highly recommend traveling by public transport and avoiding airtravel.
Our preferred way of transportation is travelling by train. But make sure you do not plan too thight because in Germany, unfortunately you can have bad luck with trains.
We also recommend booking early to be sure that you get a reservation for your bike.
We recommend taking the train or flixbus
In August, the weather will hopefully be great but warm. Especially in the mountains you should check for the risk of thunderstorms. Always make the decision for your safety. Better stop and wait than getting catched by a thunderstorm.
The Munich Milan Gravel route includes one ferry, you should check the ferry schedule – the schedule will be shared in the roadbook
We said it’s “mostly rideable”… Spoiler: Yes, there are stairs. And a ferry. And maybe some moments where you’ll ask your legs for forgiveness.
So what does mostly rideable actually mean? Most parts of the route are rideable but during the last years, we learnt that what was rideable for us on our scouting trips can be super hard during the event. We have steep uphill sections, we have some sections which are super rough. Nick put a lot of effort in route planning and has checked many alternatives. Nontheless we know that riders will hate us at some points but let’s say it in Nicks words „they do not know the other options, which are even worse“.
The truth is: we designed a gravelroute that lets you focus on riding your bike and enjoying the nature around you. But you will face challenges.
We already can tell you: there are a few short sections where you’ll need to carry or push:
- a weir to cross the river,
- some stairs leading into a fairytale forest,
- when there are cute little horses,
- and of course… the ferry. And a section before the ferry
We are big fans of variety – and that’s where different rider skill sets come into play. While most of the route follows wide gravelroads, you’ll also encounter narrow trails, meadow paths, and small technical sections. Some riders might prefer to walk here, others will love the challenge to push the pedals.
And yes, while we don’t have the most elevation gain compared to other ultracycling events, we do cross the Alps. A suitable gear ratio for long climbs with luggage is definitely recommended. There might be some steep sections – but how steep they feel depends mostly on how tired you are.
As we ride through beautiful landscape of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy so does the type of gravel change. From so called premium gravel to more rough gravel we cover a lot of it. Wider tires and ideal tire pressure will make your life easier.
For reference: We scouted everything on 40mm tires with a 31-34 smallest gear ratio – and enough food, time and sleep.