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 on June 15, 2024.
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 combination of 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 both 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. 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 marked the start of 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, gear up and mark your calendars for FNLD GRVL’s return on June 15th, 2024. 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!
