2026 UEC Gravel European Championships
📍 Houffalize, Belgium
gravel
Date
30 August 2026
Distance
94km · 141km
Elevation
2,100 m
Difficulty
gravel
2026 Bolero UEC Gravel European Championships
Wallonia, Belgium · 30 August 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
The 2026 Bolero UEC Gravel European Championships in Houffalize, Belgium, features challenging courses of 46km, 92km, and 138km with significant elevation gains up to 2190m. Approximately 70% of the route is off-road on gravel and forest roads, including the steep and decisive Côte de Saint-Roch.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 138 km · 92 km · 46 km
- Elevation
- 2,190 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt, tarmac
- Typical W/kg
- 3.2–4.2
Rider fit
Who it's for
This championship event is designed for experienced and well-trained gravel riders seeking a significant challenge and competition in beautiful, rolling landscapes.
Who will struggle
Beginners or riders unprepared for steep, repeated climbs and extensive off-road sections will likely find the courses exceptionally demanding.
Training focus
Training should heavily emphasize sustained climbing power, off-road bike handling skills, and endurance for multi-lap events on varied terrain.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What kind of terrain can riders expect on the course?+
The course is predominantly off-road, with approximately 70% consisting of beautiful gravel sections and fast forest roads, while the remaining 30% is likely paved.
Is the course considered difficult?+
Yes, the course is challenging, featuring rolling landscapes, steep climbs like the Côte de Saint-Roch which is encountered in each lap, and difficult sections concentrated in the first half of every lap.
Where are the feed and waste zones located?+
There are two designated feed and waste zones: one at Pisserotte, Houffalize, and another at Rue Saint-Roch 71, 6660 Houffalize.
Which age categories are eligible to participate?+
Categories include elite men/women, men 19-59 years, women 19-49 years for the 138km course; men 60-74 and women 50-64 for the 92km course; and men 75+ and women 65+ for the 46km course.
Will the course route be finalized before the event?+
The route may undergo slight adjustments up until shortly before the event for safety and mobility reasons, with the final race course available for download a few days prior.