Now entering its seventh year, the 2026 edition of Badlands stands as the pinnacle of the global Gravel Endurance scene. What began as a bold vision to showcase the untamed, contrasting landscapes of Eastern Andalusia has evolved into an iconic international pilgrimage. For this year’s challenge, a record-breaking roster of 400 riders from 47 different nations will gather in Granada, including a rapidly growing field of female ultra-endurance cyclists. Beneath the challenging side of this world-class event lies the enduring, raw soul of bikepacking: a test of pure, unsupported self-reliance balanced by a deeply shared, collaborative community spirit.

The Demanding Loop

Following the successful model of last year’s event, the route once again starts and finishes in the historic city of Granada, creating a loop through the spectacular province of Almería. The official 2026 track spans a formidable 817 km with an elevation gain of 14,420 metres. While the sheer scale of these numbers is daunting, they do not tell the whole story.

The true difficulty lies in the diversity of the terrain: from the high peaks of Sierra Nevada to the sandy ramblas of the Tabernas Desert and Cabo de Gata. This year features exciting key developments. The Gorafe Desert section has been reinvented, passing through the locality of Freila for the first time. Plus, a newly added test: the El Zalabí pass, climbing up to 1,641m at km 712, a challenge that will undoubtedly push every participant’s mental and physical resilience so late in the track. In the latter half of the route the infamous trio of consecutive climbs after passing Almería will once again test riders’ limits: Los Pedrolos (km 575; 767m), La Chanata (km 612; 1,423m), and El Romeral (km 658; 1,216m). Together, these three climbs present a grueling 3,000 metres of climbing over a mere 100 km.

The Roster: A Meeting Ground for Ultracyclists and Gravel Racers

Badlands continues to be the ultimate meeting point where diverse corners of the cycling community converge. The event draws a unique mix: bikepackers looking to enjoy the stunning scenery without rushing, gravel racers from the UCI ranks, and elite ultracyclists.

Among the riders on the starting line this year are Robin Gemperle, recent Transcontinental and Unbound XL winner, legendary ultracycling specialist Ulrich Bartholmös, former cross-country Marathon World Champions Tiago Ferreira, gravel specialists such as 2025 British Gravel Champion Lizzie Hermolle and Danni Shrosbree, former road racers Piotr Havik or Max Agut, and prominent solo endurance specialists such as Ole Bjørn Smisethjell, Anuchi Gago, Chris Mehlman, Marei Moldenhauer or Victor Bosoni, who smashed the Tour Divide record, the Traka Adventure and Atlas Mountain Race earlier this year. The Pairs category also promises action, featuring endurance powerhouse Svenja Betz headlining alongside partner Chris Senn.

The Badlands Warm-Up: Pre-Challenge Gatherings

Before the main clock begins ticking, the ‘Badlands Warm-up’ acts as a vibrant gathering to foster camaraderie and connection within the community. The pre-challenge events kick off on Thursday, 27th August, with a Welcome Coffee hosted by FARA Cycling, followed by the Social Ride by Continental, and an evening get-together at the historic Fuente Paseo de los Tristes in Granada.

On Friday, 28th August, the community gathers again for another FARA Cycling coffee, a Social Ride by POC, and a sunset get-together at the iconic Mirador de San Nicolás. These relaxed social rides allow riders to ease their nerves, check their setups, and share stories before the big adventure.

A Culture of Connection and Local Synergy

The true heartbeat of Badlands extends far beyond challenge, rooted in a powerful synergy between the international cycling community and the rich culture of Eastern Andalusia. Although the event embraces an “unsupported” spirit – where riders must comply with strict self-reliance rules that prohibit drafting, pre-booking of services, or planned external assistance – they are never truly isolated.

Across the remote villages traversed by the route, a remarkable culture of hospitality has blossomed. Local residents frequently open their doors to offer food, water, and emergency lodging, turning shared hardship into genuine moments of cultural exchange. This connection is mirrored in the actions of municipal councils, which have actively worked to improve trail surfaces. These improvements not only benefit the ride but also enhance the permanent “Badlands Unplugged” routes which anyone can ride throughout the year. This collaborative effort supports year-round sustainable cycle tourism and leaves a lasting, positive footprint on the local territory.

Final Thoughts

Badlands 2026 is far more than a gravel event; it is a profound journey through the raw, contrasting landscapes of Eastern Andalusia and a testament to human endurance. From the arid badlands of the Gorafe and Tabernas deserts to the pine-forested high passes of the Sierra Nevada, this seventh edition promises to challenge every rider’s mental and physical limits. Whether fighting for the fastest time or riding simply to complete the loop, every participant will experience a deeply transformative adventure of self-reliance, supported by the quiet beauty of the territory and the legendary hospitality of its people. Ultimately leading to a unique and enduring connection to the global Badlands community.