Updated January 12, 2025
The Gigante de Piedra 2025 is a formidable mountain bike ultramarathon held annually in Castellón, Spain. Renowned as one of the toughest MTB races in Spain and possibly Europe, it challenges participants with a grueling 200-kilometre course featuring approximately 6,500 meters of elevation gain. Strambecco rates the event as one of Spain's best MTB events/races.
Gigante de Piedra was established in 2013, the event has gained prominence for its demanding terrain and the endurance required. The 2025 edition is scheduled for June 7, with the race commencing in Alcora and traversing various municipalities, including Lucena del Cid, Castillo de Villamalefa, and Zucaina. The course encompasses a mix of rugged trails and historical paths, offering participants a physical challenge and a scenic journey through the Valencian Community. A distinctive feature of the Gigante de Piedra is its inclusion in the National Ultra Endurance (NUE) Epic Series, making it the first race outside the United States to be part of this prestigious championship.
Participants are allotted a maximum of 17 hours to complete the course, with strict cutoff times enforced at various checkpoints. The event is open to individuals over 18, with categories such as Elite, Master (30, 40, 50+), Women, Teams, and Relays. The race is known for its meticulous organization, including 12 aid stations, medical assistance, mechanical support, and post-race amenities like massages and bike cleaning.
The Gigante de Piedra tests physical endurance and mental resilience, offering participants an adventure that pushes personal limits and fosters growth as athletes. The event has become a hallmark in the mountain biking community, attracting riders seeking to conquer one of the most challenging courses in the sport.
About the National Ultra Endurance (NUE) Series
The National Ultra Endurance (NUE) MTB Series is one of the premier mountain biking race series in North America, dedicated to ultra-distance mountain biking enthusiasts. The series is composed of Epic Series events, which are grueling 100-mile races, and Marathon Series events, which are 50-mile to 100k length races. Each race/event challenges riders' endurance, technical skills, and determination on some of the country's most scenic and rugged courses. The NUE Series was established in the early 2000s to provide a competitive long-distance mountain biking platform. Its goal was to elevate ultra-endurance mountain bike racing and build a community of athletes passionate about pushing their limits. Over the years, it has expanded to include multiple events spanning diverse terrains across the US and several global locations. In 2025, the Series final takes place at the Oak Ass 100/50 in Alabama.
Participation in individual NUE events is open to all riders, but registration fills quickly due to the series' popularity. Riders must complete at least three events to qualify for overall series rankings, with points awarded based on finishing positions and the best four results counting toward their total score. Categories include Open Men, Open Women, Master 50+ Men, Master 50+ Women, and Singlespeed, with all participants required to meet strict time cutoffs to be considered finishers. The series offers significant rewards, including cash prizes, custom jerseys, trophies, and recognition for top finishers, while providing a platform for riders to gain exposure, attract sponsorships, and join the ranks of endurance mountain biking legends.
The National Ultra Endurance MTB Series is not just about racing—it's a celebration of mountain biking culture, showcasing breathtaking courses, fostering community, and pushing the boundaries of what riders can achieve. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring ultra-endurance athlete, the NUE Series offers an unforgettable experience. You can see the full roster of NUE events Strambecco's Series Page here with full reviews.
