Last Updated June 7, 2024 --
The 2025 event date is not confirmed -- In the world of cycling, where the thrill of adventure and the camaraderie of competition intersect, a new star has risen on the horizon: FNLD GRVL (Finland Gravel). Debuting to great acclaim on June 2023 in the picturesque town of Lahti, Finland, this gravel cycling event has captured the hearts of riders from around the globe. Conceived by no other than Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas in collaboration with the team behind SBT GRVL (Steamboat Gravel), FNLD GRVL is set to return in June 2025.
Event & Course Info
The FNLD GRVL gravel cycling event offers three distinct course options to cater to cyclists of various skill levels and preferences:
1. Forest Route: This 40 km route is beginner-friendly and includes an e-bike category. It is designed for those new to gravel riding or looking for a less intense experience. The route navigates through Finland's picturesque pine forests.
2. Lakes Route: This 77 km course provides a moderate challenge, ideal for cyclists looking for a bit more distance and adventure. It takes participants around some of Finland's stunning lakes, offering beautiful scenery throughout the ride.
3. Midnight Sun Route: At 177 km, this is the most challenging option and is aimed at experienced cyclists seeking a rigorous gravel race. It features a €20,000 Pro Prize purse and showcases the region's diverse terrain, from forests to lakes, under the enchanting light of the midnight sun.
Each course includes fully marked routes, stocked aid stations, and a range of post-race amenities such as meals, a finisher's hat, and an after-party with live music and other activities.
Check out the official Rider Guide 2024 for more details.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
A Gravel Odyssey in the Finnish Countryside
Nestled against a backdrop of lush forests and glistening lakes, the charming town of Lahti plays host to FNLD GRVL (Finland Gravel). With its small-town charm and metropolitan amenities, Lahti offers participants and spectators an ideal blend of relaxation and excitement. Boasting just over 100,000 residents, the town provides an intimate setting that welcomes athletes and visitors.
The town's experience hosting international sporting events, including the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships, Red Bull 400, and the Lahti Ski Games, ensures that FNLD GRVL participants receive top-notch accommodations and a warm Finnish welcome.
A Cultural Oasis
Beyond its athletic prowess, Lahti is a cultural gem. Home to the celebrated Sibelius Concert Hall and the newly minted Lahti Museum of Visual Arts Malva, the town is a magnet for artistic and musical talents from across Europe and beyond. Lahti's vibrant cultural scene adds a layer of sophistication to the gravel race experience, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in creativity and beauty.
Nature's Playground
Situated just an hour away from Helsinki, the capital of Finland, Lahti is a testament to the grandeur of the Ice Age's transformative touch. The rugged landscapes and pristine beauty of the region were sculpted over millennia, resulting in the breathtaking scenery that serves as the backdrop for FNLD GRVL.
The allure of the event lies in the network of secluded gravel roads that wind their way through the forests and lakes of the Salpausselkä UNESCO Global Geopark. This outdoor paradise provides cyclists with a playground of endless exploration, offering hundreds of miles of trails that promise both challenge and serenity.
Sustenance and Hydration
A world-class race requires world-class sustenance, and Lahti doesn't disappoint in this regard. From rustic campgrounds to luxurious hotels, participants have a range of lodging options to choose from. And when hunger strikes, Lahti's culinary scene shines. Local Nordic cuisine, featuring ingredients foraged from the nearby forests, shares the stage with an array of European and internationally inspired-dining choices.
And let's not forget hydration—the cornerstone of any successful race. Here's a fun fact: Finnish water is regarded as the purest in the world. With the surrounding region being Europe's largest lake district, Lahti boasts access to the world's most pristine freshwater reserves.
A Glance into the Future
FNLD GRVL's inaugural event started an exciting journey to spread the love for gravel cycling across the globe. With approximately 1,000 racers from different corners of the world participating in the 2023 edition, the event's success is undeniable. As the excitement builds for the 2024 return to Lahti, FNLD GRVL promises an unforgettable race and a chance to embrace the thrill of gravel cycling in stunning international destinations.
So, mark your calendars for FNLD GRVL's return in June 2025. As the gravel revolution gains momentum, this event is your ticket to discovering the happiest gravel roads on Earth and exploring the untouched beauty of Finland's cycling paradise. Stay tuned for updates and join the journey as gravel cycling reaches new heights!
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