The Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series heads to the heart of the Swiss Alps for The Majestics Gravel, a spectacular qualifying race based in Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland. Set on the doorstep of the UCI headquarters in Aigle, the event forms part of a unique three-day cycling festival that combines road and gravel racing in one of Europe’s most stunning mountain regions
Originally introduced as Gravel Suisse and now rebranded as The Majestics, the event has quickly established itself as one of the most distinctive races on the calendar. The region’s reputation as a gravel destination was further reinforced when Villars-sur-Ollon was selected to host the 2029 UCI Gravel World Championships.
The gravel races start from the UCI Headquarters in Aigle before heading towards the Vaudois Alps on two qualifying routes. Riders aged 19-59 and women aged 19-49 will tackle the 104 km Granfondo course, while men over 60 and women over 50 compete on the shorter 72 km Mediofondo route.
The course is split into two distinct halves. The opening section traverses the Rhône Valley on fast terrain where riders can find a rhythm. The real challenge begins once the route leaves the valley floor and starts climbing into the mountains. Riders will encounter a constantly changing mix of gravel roads, forest tracks, alpine meadows and technical descents. Long gravel ascents demand careful pacing, while the higher sections reward competitors with breathtaking views across the Vaudois Alps.
The 104 km route features approximately 2,500 metres of climbing and reaches an altitude of more than 1,800 metres before descending towards the finish in Villars-sur-Ollon. The shorter distance still packs around 2,000 metres of elevation gain, making it a serious test despite the reduced mileage.
