Gravel Stage Race - Route
Four Stages. One Epic Route.
Four stages. Four completely different tests. From the roar of Banchory’s start line to the high gravel roads above Royal Deeside, the explorr Gravel Stage Race is built around iconic terrain on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park. Expect punchy climbs, flowing forest tracks, wind-swept gravel highways and tactical sprint segments. Each stage tells a different story. Together they decide the race.
5.2km
180m
The race explodes into life from the heart of Banchory. Riders roll out onto closed roads through roaring crowds before the course tilts upwards into the first punchy climb of the mountain classification. From there the stage dives into deep forest, where smooth, fast gravel winds through dark pine corridors. Short, sharp and relentless, this stage sets the tone for the race.
- 1 Sprint Segment
- 1 Mountain Segment
10.7km
240m
Stage two is a test of rhythm and climbing legs. A rough opening gravel sector quickly gives way to a long, steady ascent into the hills above Deeside. A short plateau hosts the first sprint segment of the race before the road tilts skyward again for a designated climb where valuable seconds can be gained. A fast descent then delivers riders to the finish.
- 1 Sprint Segment
- 1 Mountain Segment
50.9km
1,008m
This is the stage that defines the race. Winding deep through Aberdeenshire forests and vast gravel tracks, riders climb more than 1000 metres across a relentless 50km route. Windfarm gravel highways, remote climbs and huge views towards the North Sea set the scene. With three mountain classifications and two sprint segments, this is where the race can be won or lost.
- 2 Sprint Segments
- 3 Mountain Segments
9.1km
61m
The final stage is fast, furious and built for drama. Dropping towards the River Dee, the route races along beautiful riverside gravel past some of Royal Deeside’s most iconic scenery. One last sprint segment offers the final chance to gain precious seconds before riders charge back into Banchory on closed roads, finishing in front of the Festival Village crowds.
- 1 Sprint Segment
