19 April Neusiedlersee Cycle Marathon
A fast start to the racing season. The participants can expect only 600 metres of elevation gain over 125 kilometres - that means: flat and perfect for high average speeds. Instead of struggling up the Alpine passes, the wind-driven peloton really gets down to business here. The top riders race at an average speed of 43 km/h over the 125 kilometre route. The route is not closed, but is largely protected by a motorbike corridor.
www.neusiedlersee-radmarathon.com
25 April 3Rides Gran Fondo Southern Wine Route
On 25 April 2026, the UCI 3RIDES Gran Fondo will start on the picturesque Southern Wine Route. The German Wine Gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach will serve as the start and finish of the new cycling event. According to the announcement, participants can expect a varied route over 100 kilometres with around 600 metres of elevation gain. A special highlight is the cross-border character of the route - around 15 kilometres of the course run through French territory.
www.3rides.de
Cycle marathon & cycle race in May
2 May - Flèche de Wallonie
On Saturday, 2 May 2026, the Proximus Cycling Challenge will make a stop in Durbuy - at the Flèche de Wallonie. Participants can look forward to a challenging yet spectacular course with many metres of elevation gain, winding roads and the characteristic landscapes of the Ardennes. A particular highlight is the legendary Mur de Durbuy. The tour combines a sporting challenge with riding fun - ideal for getting back into shape after the winter and optimally preparing for the summer season. The Ardennes show themselves from their best side: rugged nature, impressive panoramas and routes that make every cyclist's heart beat faster. There are three distances to choose from: 65, 120 and 160 kilometres.
www.proximuscyclingchallenge.be
10-16 May - Ride Across Portugal
A real ultra-cycling adventure: the participants cross Portugal from east to west in several stages. In addition to athletic endurance, navigation and racing tactics are required. The event is aimed at experienced long-distance cyclists who want to combine challenge and adventure. The route offers an impressive variety of scenery.
www.rideacrossportugal.com
16 May - Altmühltal Cycle Marathon
The Altmühltal Cycle Marathon impresses with scenic routes through one of the most beautiful regions in Bavaria. Gentle climbs and flowing sections make the race ideal for ambitious amateur cyclists. The family atmosphere and good organisation are particularly appreciated. Different route lengths offer flexible participation options.
www.altmuehltal-radmarathon.de
17 May - Granfondo Vosges
The Granfondo Vosges is challenging with crisp climbs in the low mountain range of the Vosges. Demanding metres in altitude and technically interesting descents make the race an attractive sporting event. The route is spectacularly scenic and offers a real mountain feeling. An event for climbers and lovers of challenging profiles.
www.granfondovosges.com
17 May - Imster Cycle Marathon
The Imster Cycle Marathon is one of the toughest classic races in Austria. With long climbs and alpine terrain, it demands everything from the participants. The impressive Tyrolean mountain scenery ensures an intense cycling experience. Experienced marathon riders in particular get their money's worth here.
www.imster-radmarathon.at
17 May - Around Cologne
One of the most traditional German cycling races with an amateur format. The route leads through the Bergisches Land region and combines fast sections with challenging climbs. The proximity to the pros creates a special racing atmosphere. Ideal for riders who want to experience that classic feeling. Starting places are only available until 13 April via the starting place exchange.
www.rundumkoeln.de
23/24 May - Rhön Cycle Marathon
The Rhön Cycle Marathon is known for its challenging metres in altitude and the rugged low mountain landscape. The routes are demanding and require good form. At the same time, the event scores points for its excellent catering and organisation. A classic among the German RTF and marathon events. The marathon distances are already sold out, but there are still places available on the RTF routes.
www.rhoen-radmarathon.de
24 May - Nove Colli
The Nove Colli is one of the largest and most traditional Granfondos in Europe. In Emilia-Romagna, nine climbs and thousands of participants await a true cycling festival. The perfect organisation and enthusiastic atmosphere make the event legendary. A must for ambitious Granfondo riders.
www.novecolli.it
30 May - Schleck Granfondo
Organised by the Schleck brothers, this event offers challenging routes through Luxembourg. The combination of sporting challenge and professional organisation impresses year after year. The route ranges from undulating to selective and demands tactical riding. A modern granfondo with a strong international field of participants.
www.schleck-x-perience.com
Training tips for races & bike marathons:
Kristian Bauer
Editor
