Gravel Suisse

Date
Saturday 28.06.2025
Distances
72 - 104 km
City
Villars
Country
Switzerland
Website Contact

Gravel Suisse was organized for the first time in 2024 and has been awarded to organize the UCI Gravel World Championships in 2029.  The race takes place at the doorsteps of the UCI headquarters in Aigle and takes on difficult roads in the mountains of the Vaudois Alps surrounding the town.

Course

The race distance is split with a 104km granfondo course as a qualifier for all younger age groups while the 72km mediofondo counts as the official qualifying distance for all men over 60 and women under over 50 years old.

The start relocates to the UCI headquarters in Aigle with the first 10km on flat paved roads towards the town of Ollon where riders encounter the first 5km offroad climb @10% average before passing back via Ollon after 20km to stay in the Rhone valley until km 50 where the real climbing begins.

The second part of the course is in woods and mostly offroad and goes in different steps from the valley towards the finish line on the Col de la Croix near the Skistation of Les Mazots.

The good feature about this course is that it’s easy accessible for spectators who can ride from one part to another making shortcuts to see the riders on different locations.

The mediofondo course skips the part between km 4 and 30 on the granfondo course to finish after 72km.

Granfondo

(qualifier distance for all men 19-59 and women 19-49)

Mediofondo

(qualifier distance for all men 60+ and women 50+)

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Profile

With a total altitude of 3440m over 104km, the long route is demanding starting from the Rhone Valley at the UCI headquarters at an elevation of 380m towards the highest point on course at 1819m which is reached 11km before the finish.  Also the last two kilometres on the road of the Col de la Croix is challenging.

The first half of the course is relatively easy with 1180m of elevation compared to 2300m of climbing in the second half with especially a very steep 20% section on the Route des Chaux after 79km.

The mediofondo course has 2380m of elevation.

Villars

Villars-sur-Ollon, nestled in the majestic Swiss Alps, is a charming and picturesque village that embodies the beauty and charm of Switzerland. Located in the canton of Vaud, this idyllic alpine destination is a haven for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape.

Situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level, Villars-sur-Ollon offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. Visitors can access the village via a scenic train ride from Aigle, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains along the way.

Tourism highlights in Villars-sur-Ollon include:

  • Skiing and snowboarding: Villars-sur-Ollon is renowned for its winter sports offerings. With access to over 120 kilometers of pristine slopes, it’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The village is part of the vast Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets ski area, offering numerous downhill opportunities.
  • Hiking and Mountain Biking: During the summer months, the region transforms into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Countless trails pass through lush alpine meadows, dense forests and offer panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Don’t miss the Tour des Muverans, a multi-day hiking circuit.
  • Golf: Villars-sur-Ollon has a superb 18-hole golf course with captivating views of the Dents-du-Midi and Mont Blanc. Golfers can enjoy a unique round of golf in the clean mountain air.
  • Thermal Baths: After a day of outdoor adventures, relax at the thermal baths of Lavey-les-Bains, just a short drive away. These natural hot springs offer relaxation and regeneration, making them the perfect way to soothe sore muscles.
  • Montreux Jazz Festival: During your stay in Villars-sur-Ollon, take advantage of the proximity of the Montreux Jazz Festival. This world-renowned event, organized each year in Montreux, offers a diverse musical program and a unique cultural experience.
  • Village charm: Stroll through the picturesque village of Villars-sur-Ollon, with its picturesque chalets, welcoming cafes and charming boutiques. The authentic Swiss ambiance offers a delightful and peaceful experience.
  • Panoramic train ride: The Bex-Villars-Bretaye railway is not to be missed. This rack railway takes you to Bretaye, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an adventure in itself.

Villars-sur-Ollon offers an exceptional setting for winter and summer activities, guaranteeing tourist appeal all year round. Whether you’re looking for adventure on the slopes or a quiet escape to the Swiss Alps, this charming village has something to offer every traveler. With its dazzling natural beauty and numerous recreational opportunities, Villars-sur-Ollon is a true Swiss treasure just waiting to be explored.