The Alps Epic, has forged a place in the world of mountain bike stage races, with the 5 day event in the Hautes-Alpes in France delivering not just a physical challenge, but a technical test for riders as well. For the event’s 10th year in 2025, the Alps Epic joins the official UCI Marathon calendar, highlighting the international impact and importance of the race.
Since its first edition, the Alps Epic has established itself as a reference among long-distance mountain bike races, attracting passionate amateurs and seasoned competitors each year. After having twice hosted the French Marathon Mountain Bike Championships joining the UCI world circuit is the next step for the Alps Epic 2025.
Key Details:
Dates: 21-25 June, 2025
Location: Haute-Alpes
Route: 272km, 11720m
Event website
A word from the Alps Epic race directors
‘At the Alps Epic we are always looking for something new, for challenges to take on… we can say that we are tackling a nice piece for our 10th anniversary! This collaboration with the UCI marks the start of a new chapter, it is a real opportunity to whistle alongside the greatest.’
‘We are very proud to be able to make this event evolve from year to year and are also rewarded by the loyalty of our participants. The Alps Epic is only 5 days a year but it is truly a timeless moment, a sporting and above all human adventure in the heart of our mountains of the Southern Alps!’
Sébastien Aubert and Laurent Foissac.
READ: How do I hydrate for a Marathon MTB race?
Our take on the Alps Epic
We are yet to compete in the Alps Epic but it certainly has a lot of appeal. At 5 days the challenge cannot be underestimated, but it is a bit less taxing than the 7 or 8 day stage races on the calendar. The French Alps are also a beautiful part of the world, with a lot of technical riding challenges and amazing places to visit.
It’s also appealing that the event isn’t completely point to point. Although a race that takes you on a journey each day is rewarding – it does come at the cost of packing and unpacking a lot more. While under 300km the event may look ‘easy’ at a glance, but with almost 12000m to climb in 5 stages, we can be sure that it will be chock full of challenges.
With a variety of race packages available, options to race solo or in a pair, and 5 or 2 day event variants – the Alps Epic could have something for just about everyone. Will you be putting the Alps Epic 2025 on your schedule for 2025?