GFNY Alps Vaujany 2026 is an exciting cycling event in the breathtaking region of the French Alps. It is a challenging and prestigious race that attracts both amateur and professional cyclists from around the world. The event is part of the GFNY (Gran Fondo New York) Global Series, known for its high-quality and well-organized races.

The GFNY Alps Vaujany 2026 race is set in the picturesque village of Vaujany, located in the heart of the Alps. Vaujany offers a backdrop of towering mountains, lush green valleys, and picturesque alpine scenery, making it a perfect setting for an epic cycling challenge. There are two-course options. The long course, with close to 4000 meters of climbing over 118 km, the GFNY Alpes Vaujany long route is a test of your legs and your willpower. The race starts with a controlled 5km descent from the mountain town of Vaujany. After the quick descent, the first challenge of the day begins the 25-km climb up Col de la Croix de Fer, first through the forest, then past Lac de Grand’Maison, then to its breathtaking top at 2,067 meters. After descending on the other side and flat 10k in the Maurienne valley, you’ll climb Col du Glandon. After the descent off Glandon, you will face the final challenge of the day: the climb back to Vaujany and your finish line celebration.

Only the long course finishers are eligible for category rankings and Overall and Podium awards. The top 10% of finishers in each age group earn a spot in the Qualifier Corral at every GFNY World event.

The GFNY Alpes Vaujany medium route seems easy on paper, with its only 43km. But don’t be fooled; the 1800m of climbing is at times steep, and while you will enjoy 20km of descending, the other 20km of climbing will be a challenge. After the initial neutralized descent from Vaujany (altitude 1245m), you will get right into the La Croix de la Fer climb, and from the start, it will test you. The first 8km are on a steady, straight road that averages 8%, with a max incline of 14%. After a brief breather through the village of Rivier D’Allemont, there is a short descent that leads into the final 8km of climbing. Expect a brief pitch of over 20% before the road settles back to a more moderate 8% average. Some sections of 2-3% will give you a small rest before reaching the turn-around point and aid station at the beautiful Lac de Grand’Maison (altitude 1743m). After the 16km descent back down to the valley (altitude 795m), you still have the final ascent back up to Vaujany to tackle. It’s steady and has some nice switchbacks, but at an average of 8.6%, you will definitely be earning your finish line glory in Vaujany.

The medium course riders will be provided their start-to-finish time but will not be ranked by finish time. All finish times will be listed in alphabetical order.

The race follows a mass-start format, creating a thrilling atmosphere as cyclists set off together to conquer the course. Riders navigate through scenic mountain roads, battling both the physical demands and the strategic aspects of the race. Along the route, riders will encounter aid stations where they can refuel and hydrate.

GFNY Alps Vaujany is not only a competitive race but also a celebration of cycling and camaraderie. Participants from various countries and backgrounds come together to share their passion for the sport. At the finish line, riders are greeted with cheers and applause, recognizing their accomplishment. Podium ceremonies are held to honor the top finishers.

GFNY events are personal endurance challenges where you compete against others, the clock, and yourself. GFNY Global Series events offer that same challenge in 30+ locations worldwide. Additionally, you can qualify for a front corral start at the GFNY World Championship every May in NYC. All GFNY events have the bonus of closed roads and police-moderated traffic that ensures added safety, and you don’t have to stop during the race.