Cycle Events 2025
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Our Top 10 for Cycling in 2025 (and Other Pedal-Powered Ponderings!)
Another year, another revolution of the pedals! 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for cycling, whether you're a seasoned pro, a weekend warrior, or just enjoy a leisurely spin. From thrilling races to exciting new routes and innovative gear, the cycling world is constantly evolving. Here at Sundried, we're passionate about all things cycling, and we've compiled our top 10 things to look forward to in the coming year. We'll be diving into the must-watch events, highlighting some up-and-coming cycling destinations, and sharing some other cycling news and competitions you might want to add to your diary. So, pump up your tires, grab your helmet, and join us as we explore the exciting world of cycling in 2025!
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- Mallorca 312 This closed road sportive in Playa de Muro, Mallorca, is one of the most popular European sportives. It may also be one of the toughest cycling challenges Europe has to offer. The long route tours around the northwest of the island and has an elevation gain of around 5,000 metres. The event is scheduled for 26 April 2025, and distances include 167, 225, and 312 kilometers.
- Sea Otter Ciclobrava Taking place 19 September 2025 in Girona, Costa Brava, this gran fondo (road cycling sportive) occurs as part of the three-day Sea Otter Bike Festival. Distances are 70, 100, and 140 kilometers. The route goes through the pass of La Ganga and Montjuic, near Girona.
- Quebrantahuesos This event, the biggest marcha cicloturista in Spain, starts and finishes in Sabiñánigo. Scheduled for 21 June 2025, the long route is a severe, 200-kilometer test into and around the Pyrenees, with 3,500 meters of elevation gain and three Hors Categorie climbs. A shorter, 85-kilometer medio fondo, called the Treparriscos, is also an option.
- Gran Fondo Alberto Contador This 146-kilometer Spanish sportive starts and finishes in Oliva, Valencia/Costa Blanca. One highlight of this closed road sportive, scheduled for September 2025, is the chance to ride with Alberto Contador. The route goes along roads used by professional teams for pre-season training and includes the Coll de Rates and Vall d’Ebo climbs, with a cumulative elevation gain of 2,500 metres.
- La Marmotte Alps This alpine cycle sportive is generally regarded as the ultimate in European cycling events. Scheduled for 22 June 2025, the 177-kilometer route has over 5,000 metres of climbing and three Hors Categorie climbs. Starting in Bourg d’Oisans, the route includes the Col du Glandon and the Col du Galibier climbs.
- Gran Fondo Strade Bianche The Strade Bianche gran fondo, scheduled for 9 March 2025, provides 6,500 amateur riders with a chance to ride through Tuscany on the famous white chalk dust roads. The 139-kilometre route starts and finishes in Siena, in the Piazza del Campo. An 87 km route is also available.
- Gran Fondo Stelvio Santini Taking place in Bormio, the Gran Fondo Stelvio Santini is an Italian sportive scheduled for 8 June 2025. The routes finish with the ascent of the Passo dello Stelvio. Distances include 64, 108 and 130 kilometers. The 108km route includes the demanding ascent of the Passo del Mortirolo.
- Maratona dles Dolomites This gran fondo is one of the most prestigious sportives in Europe. Scheduled for 6 July 2025, the Dolomites mountain range is the backdrop for the Maratona dles Dolomites. Distances are 55, 106 and 138 kilometers.
- Tour of Flanders The 109th edition of the Ronde van Vlaanderen will be held 5 April 2025. The public can ride the cobbles the day before the professional race. Distances range from 80, 144, 177 and 242 kilometers.
- Amstel Gold The Amstel Gold professional road race is the biggest race in the Dutch cycling calendar. The sportive is staged on the preceding day in the province of Limburg and offers six different route options. The 240-kilometre-long route incorporates all the climbs that the professionals tackle, including an ascent of the Cauberg. The event is scheduled for 19 April 2025.
Is that not enough for you this year?
Want to challenge yourself more than a local cycling event? Feeling the itch to push your limits and experience the thrill of a bigger, more demanding ride? 2025 offers a fantastic array of cycling challenges, from epic multi-day tours to grueling gran fondos and everything in between. Whether you're aiming for a personal best, seeking a new adventure, or simply want to test your mettle against other riders, there's something out there for you. How about some of this selection for 2025?
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For the Mountain Goat: Consider tackling a renowned mountain pass challenge. Think Stelvio Pass in Italy, or perhaps the Col du Tourmalet in France. These legendary climbs will test your strength and endurance, rewarding you with breathtaking views and a profound sense of accomplishment. Many organized events center around these iconic climbs, offering support and timing for your ride.
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For the Endurance Enthusiast: Multi-day cycling tours offer an immersive experience, allowing you to explore new regions at your own pace. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, there are countless routes to choose from. Look for organized tours that provide accommodation, luggage transfer, and support, allowing you to focus on the ride.
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For the Competitive Spirit: Gran fondos are mass-participation cycling events that combine the challenge of a long-distance ride with the excitement of a race. These events often feature timed sections, categorized climbs, and a competitive atmosphere. Research gran fondos in your region or further afield, and choose one that matches your fitness level and interests.
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For the Adventurer: If you're looking for something truly unique, consider a bikepacking trip. This combines cycling with camping, allowing you to explore remote areas and experience the freedom of the open road. Plan your route carefully, pack light, and be prepared for anything.
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For the Ultra-Distance Rider: For those who truly want to push the boundaries of human endurance, ultra-distance cycling events offer the ultimate test. These races can cover hundreds or even thousands of miles, requiring riders to be self-sufficient and resilient. Events like the Transcontinental Race or the Race Across America are legendary in the ultra-cycling world.
Remember to thoroughly research any event you're considering, taking into account the distance, elevation gain, terrain, and required equipment. Proper training and preparation are essential for success and enjoyment. So, which challenge will you choose for 2025?
Here are some awesome challenges for 2025 you could consider adding to your diary:
Iconic Sportives and Gran Fondos:
- Amstel Gold Race Sportive On 19 Apr 2025, you can ride the climbs that the professionals tackle in Limburg, Netherlands. The longest route is 240 km.
- Etape Loch Ness This traffic-free, 106 km ride circles Loch Ness and finishes in Inverness. HIGH5 Energy Drink and Gels will be available at the feed stations. The event is scheduled for 27 April 2025.
- La Marmotte Alps This is an alpine cycle sportive scheduled for 22 June 2025. Starting in Bourg d’Oisans, the 177-kilometer route has over 5,000 metres of climbing and three Hors Categorie climbs, including the Col du Glandon and the Col du Galibier.
- Dragon Ride On 22 June 2025, this iconic UK sportive in the beautiful Welsh countryside offers routes from 98km to 296km, with epic climbs and well-stocked feed stations.
- Maratona dles Dolomites The Dolomites mountain range is the backdrop for this prestigious sportive on 6 July 2025. Distances are 55, 106 and 138 kilometers.
- Tour of Flanders On 5 April 2025, ride the cobbles the day before the professional race. Distances range from 80, 144, 177 and 242 kilometers.
- Gran Fondo Stelvio Santini Taking place in Bormio on 8 June 2025, this Italian sportive's routes finish with the ascent of the Passo dello Stelvio. Distances include 64, 108 and 130 kilometers. The 108km route includes the demanding ascent of the Passo del Mortirolo.
- Gran Fondo Strade Bianche On 9 March 2025, ride through Tuscany on the white chalk dust roads. The 139-kilometre route starts and finishes in Siena. An 87 km route is also available.
- Milan Sanremo Ride and Watch This sportive and Gran Fondo in Italy is scheduled for March 21, 2025.
UK and European events
- Chase the Sun This one-day endurance cycling event challenges cyclists to ride coast to coast, from sunrise to sunset. It takes place on 21 June 2025 in England, Scotland, Ireland/Northern Ireland and Italy.
- Arna Westfjords Way Challenge This gravel race covers 1,000 kilometres around the Westfjords peninsula in Iceland, with four stages, each about 250 kilometres long. The event is scheduled for 23-28 June 2025.
- Vätternrundan This increasingly popular cycle sportive in Sweden is recognised as the biggest event of its type in the country. The 315-kilometre course tracks around the edge of Lake Vättern in a complete loop.
- Saimaa Cycle Tour Taking place in Imatra, Finland between 11-13 June 2025, this event allows cyclists to soak up the stunning lakes and forests of northern Finland, with routes of 65, 100 and 300 kilometres.
- Fred Whitton Challenge Known as the toughest sportive in the UK, it is inspired by Fred Whitton of the Lakes Road Club. It's scheduled for 11th May.
- Long Course Weekend Yorkshire From Fri 29 - Sun 31 Aug, this multi-sport festival in Masham, North Yorkshire, includes runs, rides, triple-style challenges and junior events.
- The Yorkshire Beast Scheduled for 28 June 2025, this is a challenging sportive with 15,000ft of climbs over a brutal 200-mile course.
- Tour of the Boarders This event starts in Peebles on 7 September 2025 and travels over quiet, picturesque back roads and climbs stiff hills. HIGH5 Energy Gels, Energy Drink and Energy Bars will be available.
Other Events:
- Action Medical Research has a Castle Ride cycling event in Kent on Sunday 11 May 2025.
- Bike Revolution will bring adrenaline, sports, and passion to Swiss trails, with four stops on the UCI calendar.
- The Etape du Tour is scheduled to take place in France on July 20, 2025.
- L’Étape du Tour de France Femmes is scheduled to take place in France on August 2, 2025.
If you are looking for an event closer to home let us help you find the ideal cycle sportive
Cycle events in the South of England
Here are some cycling challenges for 2025:
Iconic Sportives and Gran Fondos:
- Amstel Gold Race Sportive On 19 Apr 2025, you can ride the climbs that the professionals tackle in Limburg, Netherlands. The longest route is 240 km.
- Etape Loch Ness This traffic-free, 106 km ride circles Loch Ness and finishes in Inverness. HIGH5 Energy Drink and Gels will be available at the feed stations. The event is scheduled for 27 April 2025.
- La Marmotte Alps This is an alpine cycle sportive scheduled for 22 June 2025. Starting in Bourg d’Oisans, the 177-kilometer route has over 5,000 metres of climbing and three Hors Categorie climbs, including the Col du Glandon and the Col du Galibier.
- Dragon Ride On 22 June 2025, this iconic UK sportive in the beautiful Welsh countryside offers routes from 98km to 296km, with epic climbs and well-stocked feed stations.
- Maratona dles Dolomites The Dolomites mountain range is the backdrop for this prestigious sportive on 6 July 2025. Distances are 55, 106 and 138 kilometers.
- Tour of Flanders On 5 April 2025, ride the cobbles the day before the professional race. Distances range from 80, 144, 177 and 242 kilometers.
- Gran Fondo Stelvio Santini Taking place in Bormio on 8 June 2025, this Italian sportive's routes finish with the ascent of the Passo dello Stelvio. Distances include 64, 108 and 130 kilometers. The 108km route includes the demanding ascent of the Passo del Mortirolo.
- Gran Fondo Strade Bianche On 9 March 2025, ride through Tuscany on the white chalk dust roads. The 139-kilometre route starts and finishes in Siena. An 87 km route is also available.
- Milan Sanremo Ride and Watch This sportive and Gran Fondo in Italy is scheduled for March 21, 2025.
UK and European events
- Chase the Sun This one-day endurance cycling event challenges cyclists to ride coast to coast, from sunrise to sunset. It takes place on 21 June 2025 in England, Scotland, Ireland/Northern Ireland and Italy.
- Arna Westfjords Way Challenge This gravel race covers 1,000 kilometres around the Westfjords peninsula in Iceland, with four stages, each about 250 kilometres long. The event is scheduled for 23-28 June 2025.
- Vätternrundan This increasingly popular cycle sportive in Sweden is recognised as the biggest event of its type in the country. The 315-kilometre course tracks around the edge of Lake Vättern in a complete loop.
- Saimaa Cycle Tour Taking place in Imatra, Finland between 11-13 June 2025, this event allows cyclists to soak up the stunning lakes and forests of northern Finland, with routes of 65, 100 and 300 kilometres.
- Fred Whitton Challenge Known as the toughest sportive in the UK, it is inspired by Fred Whitton of the Lakes Road Club. It's scheduled for 11th May.
- Long Course Weekend Yorkshire From Fri 29 - Sun 31 Aug, this multi-sport festival in Masham, North Yorkshire, includes runs, rides, triple-style challenges and junior events.
- The Yorkshire Beast Scheduled for 28 June 2025, this is a challenging sportive with 15,000ft of climbs over a brutal 200-mile course.
- Tour of the Boarders This event starts in Peebles on 7 September 2025 and travels over quiet, picturesque back roads and climbs stiff hills. HIGH5 Energy Gels, Energy Drink and Energy Bars will be available.
Cycle Events in and Near Wales
Here are some cycling events in and near Wales in 2025:
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Long Course Weekend Wales This is a multi-sport festival in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, featuring runs and rides of a range of distances. It is scheduled for June 26, 2025.
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The Wales Sportive As part of the Long Course Weekend Wales, this event offers routes of varying lengths:
- The Wales Sportive 42-Mile: This is a short sportive.
- The Wales Sportive 70-Mile: This is a medium sportive.
- The Wales Sportive 112-Mile: This is a long sportive.
These routes are closed-road rides and fully televised, with an award-winning finish line and incredible atmosphere.
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Dragon Ride This is an iconic sportive in the Welsh countryside that includes epic climbs and well-stocked feed stations. It is scheduled for June 22, 2025. There are four distance options available.
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Mizen Head to Malin Head This cycling holiday starts at Mizen Head, Ireland and ends at Malin Head, Ireland.
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Wye Valley Brewery Sportive Taking place on August 31, this cycle begins in Bromyard, Herefordshire, near Wales, and goes through the Malvern countryside.
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Lauf Gritfest This event takes place in Llandovery, Mid Wales on June 20, 2025.
Cycle Events in Scotland
Here are some cycle events in Scotland in 2025, according to the sources:
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Chase the Sun North This endurance cycling event challenges cyclists to ride from coast to coast, from sunrise to sunset on June 21, 2025. The route goes from the North Sea Coast at Whitley Bay to the Scottish Ayrshire coast. The route includes cycling through the hills and forests of southern Scotland.
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Muck n' Mac Fest This event in Innerleithen, Scottish Borders on May 2, 2025, includes gravel riding, live music, talks, films and family-friendly activities.
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Tour of the Boarders Starting in Peebles on 7 September 2025, the 'Touro' travels mainly over quiet, picturesque back roads and climbs several hills. HIGH5 Energy Gels, Energy Drink and Energy Bars will be available on course.
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Blacks Brewery Sportive In Kinsale, Ireland, this sportive takes place on July 6, 2025.
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Brewdog Ride Out Sportive This event is a cycle along the North East coast of Scotland. It takes place on August 2, 2025, in Ellon, Aberdeenshire.
- Half Pint: 55 km road cycling.
- Full Pint: 97 km road cycling.
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Etape Loch Ness This traffic free sportive circles Loch Ness, finishing in Inverness on April 27, 2025. The route is 106km and HIGH5 Energy Drink and Energy Gels will be available at the feed stations.
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Frontier 300 This event takes place in Dalbeattie, Dumfries & Galloway on June 7, 2025.
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Grand Old Dukes Gravel Fondo This event takes place in Aberfoyle on June 15, 2025.
Cycle Events in the North of England
Here are some cycle events in the North of England in 2025:
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York Leeds York This event is scheduled for March 1, 2025. The route is 170 km long and starts at the York Auction Centre.
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Bamburgh Castle Cycle Sportive This sportive returns for its 5th year on April 13, 2025. The 100km route starts and finishes at Bamburgh Castle and goes through Seahouses, Embleton, Alnmouth, Warkworth, and Amble. There will be drinks, pastries, cakes, chocolates, and sweets available near Acklington.
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Lloyds National Road and Circuit Series British Cycling has unveiled its 2025 calendar for the Lloyds National Road and Circuit Series. The riders will face a variety of challenging terrains, from the tough circuit of the Lincoln Grand Prix to the hills of Yorkshire.
- East Cleveland Classic – 13 April
- Rapha Lincoln Grand Prix – 11 May
- Yorkshire Round – 31 August
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Velo Belvoir Sportive On May 11th 2025, there are three rides: the Gran Fondo (100 miles), the Mezzo Fondo (60 miles) and the Piccolo Fondo (30 miles). The routes stay on quiet country roads through the villages of Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire. One feed station will be available on the Mezzo Fondo with two feed stations on the Gran Fondo. The events start and finish at Hose Village Hall, 2 Harby Lane, Hose, Melton Mowbray LE14 4JR.
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Source to Sea Trail This adventure by gravel or mountain bike starts from the Pennine moors on May 7 and ends at the Yorkshire coast. The route crosses the Vale of York, heads over the Humber Estuary, and loops back to the starting line in Hebden Bridge.
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RIDE The Dales This event is on June 29 2025. Riders will follow in the tyre tracks of the Tour de Yorkshire through Summer Bridge and Pateley Bridge before taking on the climb that never ends, Trapping Hill.
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Chase the Sun North This endurance cycling event challenges cyclists to ride from coast to coast, from sunrise to sunset on June 21, 2025. The route goes from the North Sea Coast at Whitley Bay to the Scottish Ayrshire coast. The route includes cycling through the hills and forests of southern Scotland.
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The Overford / Investment Room Peaks Challenge This event takes place in Sheffield, South Yorkshire on June 20 2025.
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The Yorkshire Beast This event is dubbed the toughest day on a bike. The route has 15,000ft of climbs over a 200-mile course. There will be a range of HIGH5 products on the course. The event will take place on June 28, 2025.
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Black Sheep Brewery Sportive This cycle through the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding countryside starts from one of the best breweries in the UK. The event takes place on August 16, 2025, in Ripon, North Yorkshire.
- Half Pint: 63 km road cycling.
- Full Pint: 101 km road cycling.
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Long Course Weekend - Yorkshire Taking place in Masham from August 28, this event is a multi-sport festival in Nidderdale featuring runs, rides, triple-style challenges and junior events too.
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Yorkshire Dales Sportive Taking place on August 30 in Masham, this event includes sections from the Tour De Yorkshire, Tour De France and UCI courses.
- 112 miles road cycling.
- 56 miles road cycling.
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Ronde Yorkshire Sportive This event is scheduled for April 12 2025 and takes place in Stokesley, Yorkshire. The routes are 77, 142, and 172 km.
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Sheffield-Buxton-Sheffield This event will be held on April 27th 2025 in Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
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Struggle Dales This event is scheduled for May 25 2025, and is 200 km long, starting in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
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Struggle Moors Sportive This event will be held on June 15 2025, and is 180 km long, starting in Helmsley, North Yorkshire.
Prefer to avoid sharing the road with cars? Then a closed-road cycling event is just what you're looking for. These events offer a unique experience, allowing you to focus solely on your pedaling and enjoy the camaraderie of riding in a large group, or peloton. You might be surprised at how much your average speed improves when you're not navigating traffic!
Best closed roads events
Here are some of the best closed road cycling events in 2025:
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Mallorca 312 This closed road sportive is a tour around the north-west of the island, including the Serra Tramuntana mountains. The longest route is 312 kilometers with an elevation gain of around 5,000 metres. The event usually has around 8,000 competitors. It is scheduled for April 26, 2025.
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Quebrantahuesos This is a huge, closed road sportive that takes in some Pyrenean climbs.
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Etape Loch Ness This 106km sportive circles Loch Ness on traffic free roads, finishing in Inverness. The event is scheduled for April 27, 2025.
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The Wales Sportive As part of the Long Course Weekend Wales, this event offers routes of varying lengths that are closed-road rides and fully televised.
- The Wales Sportive 42-Mile
- The Wales Sportive 70-Mile
- The Wales Sportive 112-Mile
Whatever your ability
One of the truly wonderful things about sportives is their inclusive nature. Regardless of your cycling ability, from absolute beginner to seasoned racer, you'll find a challenge that suits you and have a fantastic day out. Whether you're aiming for a personal best, simply looking to enjoy a scenic ride, or just want a fun day with friends, sportives cater to all levels. There's no pressure to keep up with the fastest riders; they'll likely have started well ahead of you, allowing you to ride at your own pace and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or intimidated. Cycling, and sportives in particular, are incredibly welcoming. Whether it's your first time clipping into pedals or you're a highly experienced rider, you'll get something valuable out of the event. The shared passion for cycling creates a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, making sportives a great way to challenge yourself, meet fellow enthusiasts, and experience the joy of riding.