‘Gravel Birds Ultracycling’ is simultaneously a personal bikepacking challenge and a collective cycling adventure. An opportunity to face your physical and emotional limits while other adventurers are doing the same. It isn't a race or a competition. Gravel Birds follows 'self supported' approach and drafting is not allowed.

Bikepackers can ride one of the three available routes: the classics L'Abetarda 330, Gravel Birds 750 or the longer loop with 1.000 kilometers. All routes start and end in Castro Verde. 'Gravel Birds 750' has approximately 8,000 meters of elevation gain and it is 75% off-road. L’Abetarda 330 has 4,000 meters of climbing and it is 65% off-road. Riders - in both routes - have six days to complete their journey. More news about the longer route very soon.

The closest airports are located in Faro and Lisbon. Funcheira is the closest train station to Castro Verde: 30 km away. From Faro train station takes 1h30m. From 'Lisboa-Oriente' train station takes 2h. Transport your bike in InterCity trains.

Unsupported ultracycling seeks the essence of cycling through the spirit of adventure, independence, autonomy and equality of circumstances among all participants. It's about your experience and challenging your own limits. So makes no sense to receive help from your family and friends with resupplies, mechanical support and accommodation. You can only use the commercial services available to the public and that are available to all riders. Participants in the pair category can help each other, as well as all riders of the L'Abetarda route.

Drafting is not allowed: you cannot ride on the wheel of other participants (except your fellow pair), cyclists or vehicles, thus obtaining aerodynamic advantages.

Helmet, reflective vest (nights and poor visibility conditions), frontal and rear lights (including a backup kit), emergency blanket. The organization assures personal insurance for accidents (expenses for treatment, repatriation, disability and death). Presence at the briefing session is mandatory (on May 9th evening).