Alpine Gravel Challenge – Portes du Soleil is a new UCI Gravel race.

It will take place in Région Dents du Midi famous outdoor destination at the Swiss-French border and more precisely in Champéry resort which will host in 2025 Downhill World Championship.

Course

The Alpine Gravel Challenge is the third last qualifier event for the UCI Gravel World Championships with a challenging course starting in the town of Monthey in the valley for a 94km course towards Champéry with a first passage near the finish line after 30km before going further up to the highest point on course near the Swiss-French border with a 50/50 paved/unpaved surface.  The first 30km are mainly on the road, but once Champéry has been passed for the first time, the majority is on gravel!

The 63km course skips the first uphill climb from Monthey to do the same final 63km starting and finishing in Champéry.  65% of this course is pure gravel.

The 35km discovery course will also follow part of the 63km course in the beautiful landscape of Région Dents du Midi. Fun and discovery will be the main objectives of this course.

Granfondo

(qualifier distance for all men 19-59 and women 19-49)
Courses to be validated.

Mediofondo

(qualifier distance for all men 60+ and women 50+)
Courses to be validated.

champery-24-2
champery-24-3
champery-24-1

Profile

With a total elevation of almost 3200m, this is one of the most challenging courses in the UCI Gravel World Series with a first long 17.5km climb right from the start at 425m of elevation at 6.2% average.  Once Champéry has been passed for the first time, a second 10km challenging climb at 5.7% average, this time mainly on gravel is bringing riders near the French border and the highest point on course at 1869m above sea level.

In the second half of the race, the road stays on a platform to then go down again to Champéry.  The last 8.5km go again up to the finish with parts on the road.  

The 63km course skips the long first climb for a total elevation of 1860m.

94 km

63 km

DENTS DU MIDI

The Dents du Midi is a striking mountain range located in the Valais canton of Switzerland. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and challenging alpine terrain, the Dents du Midi region is a popular destination for mountaineers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

  • Mountain Range: The Dents du Midi, translating to “Teeth of the South,” is a collection of seven distinct summits, each resembling a tooth. The highest peak is Haute Cime 3,257 meters/10,689 feet).
  • Location: Situated in the southwestern part of Switzerland, near the town of Champery, the Dents du Midi overlook the Rhône Valley. The region is part of the Chablais Alps, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Natural Beauty: The Dents du Midi region is characterised by its rugged and dramatic scenery. Glaciers, rocky ridges, and deep valleys contribute to the picturesque landscapes that attract outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
  • Outdoor Activities: The area provides a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year. In the summer, hikers can explore a network of trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, pristine alpine lakes, and the base of the Dents du Midi peaks. Additionally, the region is a popular destination for mountaineering and rock climbing.
  • Winter Sports: The Dents du Midi region transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The nearby ski resorts, including Portes du Soleil, attract visitors with their extensive trail networks and breathtaking alpine scenery.
  • Cultural Attractions: The region is not only a haven for nature lovers but also offers cultural attractions. Charming alpine villages, such as Champery, provide a glimpse into traditional Swiss mountain life. Visitors can explore local architecture, enjoy Swiss cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the residents.
  • Accessibility: The Dents du Midi region is accessible by road, and the proximity to major Swiss cities makes it a feasible destination for both day trips and longer stays. The region’s accessibility enhances its popularity among tourists seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.

For more information please visit https://www.regiondentsdumidi.ch/fr/destination/1-region/decouvrir-la-region-20259/