Grand Raid BCVs 2026

Grand Raid BCVS sends mountain bikers across the Valais Alps in late August. The longest race begins in Verbier and finishes in Grimentz. This XCM cross-country marathon covers approximately 125 km with over 5,000 m of elevation gain and loss. Riders seeking a shorter distance can begin in Nendaz, Hérémence, or Evolène, with courses of about 93 km, 68 km, and 54 km, all leading to Grimentz. The event is listed on the UCI and Swiss Cycling calendars, attracting both professional mountain bikers and skilled amateurs. The full route crosses several Valais valleys before reaching the Pas de Lona, a summit above 2,700 m that contributes significantly to the race's demanding reputation. Grand Raid BCVS has been held since 1990 and typically sees around 2,500 participants, establishing it as Europe's largest mountain bike race. The event also features a three-person team race, a children's race, and routes near Evolène that bypass the Pas de Lona pass. It is a point-to-point alpine challenge, not a circuit: participants start in various mountain villages, ascend into high alpine terrain, and conclude in Grimentz, located in the Val d’Anniviers.