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Race Across Switzerland

Swiss Alps, Switzerland · 22–26 July 2026

Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal

The Race Across Switzerland is an ultra-cycling event offering 200km, 300km, 500km, and 1000km distances through the demanding and spectacular Swiss Alps. It is known as one of the most difficult races in the Race Across Series, featuring significant climbing and technical sections on mixed surfaces.

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Distances
200km · 300km · 500km · 1000km
Surface
tarmac, gravel, dirt
Typical W/kg
3.8–4.5

Rider fit

Who it's for

This event is for experienced ultra-cyclists and strong endurance riders who thrive on extreme challenges, high mountains, and diverse alpine landscapes.

Who will struggle

Riders with limited experience in long-distance cycling, those unprepared for significant alpine climbing and technical terrain, or participants without adequate training for multi-day efforts will find this race extremely difficult.

Training focus

Training should heavily prioritize sustained climbing power, long-distance endurance on varied terrain including tarmac, gravel, and dirt, and developing mental fortitude for extended efforts in an alpine environment.

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 are the qualification requirements for the 1000km distance?+

To register for the 1000km, participants must have finished a Race Across 300km in the last 12 months, a Race Across 500km in the last 24 months, a Race Across 1000km in the last 36 months, or any Race Across 2500km. Alternatively, equivalent long-distance experience, such as completing a 300km road, gravel, MTB, virtual race, BRM, or self-organized adventure within 24 hours, is accepted.

What kind of terrain and landscapes can riders expect?+

The course traverses the spectacular Swiss Alps, including challenging cols like the Gotthard and Furka, valleys, forests, lakes, and even viticultural regions. Riders will experience grand landscapes, significant altitude gain, and technical sections.

What support is available during the race?+

The race format includes a unique "base de vie" (life base) which serves as a central hub where riders can access their belongings and meet support teams or family. This is the only location on the course where external assistance is permitted.

How are the race routes structured for the different distances?+

The Race Across Switzerland routes are designed as either loops or linear sections that converge towards or revolve around a single "base de vie." Participants will complete one or two different loops or follow a linear course to reach the life base to fulfill their chosen distance.

How can I travel to the race start locations?+

The main starting locations (Klosters and Champagne) are accessible by train, road, and plane. Klosters can be reached by train via Landquart, with connections from major cities like Lyon, Paris, Munich, and Milan. By road, take the A3 motorway to Landquart. Zurich Airport provides a 2-hour train connection to Klosters.

What are the registration fees for the 2026 event?+

Prices vary by distance (200km, 300km, 500km, 1000km), category (solo, duo, team), and registration phase (Waiting List, Standard, Last Chance). For example, a solo 200km entry ranges from 139€/131CHF to 169€/159CHF depending on the phase, while a solo 1000km entry ranges from 359€/337CHF to 449€/422CHF.

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