La Grand Bifurkade

La Grande Bifurkade takes riders through the mountainous landscapes of the Vosges and Alsace in eastern France, combining challenging climbs, quiet roads and gravel tracks into a three-day bikepacking adventure. Starting and finishing in the Munster Valley, the event is designed around exploration and personal challenge rather than competition.

Riders can choose between two loop routes: the 300 km course with 6,000 metres of elevation gain, or the more demanding 600 km route with 10,000 metres of climbing. Around 30% of the routes are gravel, with the remainder following paved roads through forests, mountain passes and traditional Alsatian villages.

The journey explores some of the region’s most recognisable landscapes, including the Route des Crêtes, Gérardmer Lake, the Plateau des Mille Étangs, the Straiture Gorge and the Hohneck. Riders navigate using a supplied GPX track, with two mandatory checkpoints on both distances and three additional selfie checkpoints on the 600 km route.

La Grande Bifurkade is a fully self-supported, non-competitive ride. There is no official assistance on the course, and participants are responsible for their own food, accommodation, equipment and mechanical repairs. With a three-day format and a welcoming atmosphere around the start and finish, it offers a challenging way to explore one of France’s most scenic cycling regions.