2026 UEC Gravel European Championships
📍 Houffalize, Belgium
gravel
Date
30 August 2026
Distance
94km · 141km
Elevation
2,100 m
Difficulty
gravelbeginner friendly
Heathland Gravel
Limburg, Belgium · 7–9 August 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
Heathland Gravel in Maasmechelen, Belgium, offers a multi-day gravel festival with distances from 70km to 160km, including an Unbound Gravel Qualifier. Riders will navigate challenging off-road tracks and scenic heathland.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 70km · 110km · 160km
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 2.8–3.8
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is for gravel enthusiasts seeking an Unbound qualification challenge, as well as those looking for a fun, untimed gravel weekend with friends across various distances and stunning natural scenery.
Who will struggle
Riders without adequate endurance training or gravel-specific skills will find the longer 160km course, designed for "real gravel enthusiasts," particularly challenging.
Training focus
Focus on sustained power output for long gravel stretches, developing strong bike handling skills for off-road tracks, and building endurance to conquer the longer distances in the Limburg heathland.
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 distances are available and are they all races?+
Heathland Gravel offers 70 km, 110 km, and 160 km routes. The 160 km distance is an official race and Unbound Gravel Qualifier, while the 70 km and 110 km routes are untimed recreational rides.
How can I qualify for Unbound Gravel?+
By participating in the 160 km Official European Unbound Gravel Qualifier, you have the chance to claim one of 50 coins for Unbound Gravel 2027, awarded based on performance and a lottery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the courses?+
The courses wind through the scenic Limburg heathland, featuring gravel roads and a high percentage of off-road tracks, especially on the shorter 70 km route, offering panoramic views.
Are there any license requirements for participation?+
A valid license is required for those racing the 160 km Unbound Qualifying distance. A day license can be purchased online for €10 during checkout. No license is needed for the untimed fun rides.
What are the registration deadlines?+
For the 160 km race requiring a license, registration closes on August 6th at 23:59 CET. For those riding the 160 km for fun or participating in the 70 km and 110 km distances, registration is open until August 8th at 23:59 CET.
What is included with my ticket?+
Your ticket provides an "all-inclusive deal" for the full gravel weekend, and includes access to the Official Course Guide. Specific additional bike fun activities are also planned throughout the weekend.