Every year, granfondos bring together thousands of enthusiasts across France: the Marmotte, the Ardéchoise, and the famous Étape du Tour are unmissable events. But beyond our borders, other equally legendary granfondos have endured for decades and embody the essence of cyclosportive events. In the heart of the Austrian Alps, in the Ötztal Valley, lies Sölden, an alpine resort renowned for its glaciers reaching over 3 meters and the spectacular opening of the Alpine Skiing World Cup each fall. In the summer, Sölden becomes the setting for a cycling legend: the Ötztaler Radmarathon.
By David Polveroni – Photos: soelden.com, D.R.
Why is it so mythical?
Created in 1982, this event began modestly with around sixty locals challenging four passes (including three at over 2 m) on a 225 km loop with a 5 meter elevation gain, a real challenge, the very essence of cyclosport, which is gradually being lost today. Since then, the race has continued to grow, attracting passionate amateurs and seasoned professionals, all united by the beauty and difficulty of the mountainstagon a course unchanged since its creation.
If you're familiar with the Marmotte, you'll know that the Ötztaler offers a similar challenge in terms of altitude difference, but with an additional 50 km and 500 m of elevation gain., or 1 to 30 hours of cycling extra depending on your level. It goes without saying that determination and training are essential to complete this demanding route. To give you an idea, it's like a loop combining Alpe d'Huez and Galibier before arriving in La Grave!
Many big names in the peloton have ridden these routes: Three-time Vuelta winner Primož Roglič used it as a high-altitude training ground; Romain Bardet rode there in 2016 and 2020 to prepare for his seasons. In 2017, Roman Kreuziger won the professional version, the "Pro Ötztaler 5500," on the same route, surrounded by a prestigious WorldTour field including riders like Špilak and Ciccone. This pro version did not continue for financial reasons.
Another rare feature for an amateur event: the Ötztaler Radmarathon benefits from a route privatized and is broadcast live on YouTube, offering total immersion for participants and fans from around the world.
The 2025 route, pass by pass
On August 31st, at 6:45 a.m., Sölden will wake up to the sound of freewheels and the clicking of derailleurs.The morning light illuminates the glaciers, the air is fresh, and the runners will set off from the resort's 1-meter altitude.
Kühtai: the first pass (km 35)
As soon as you leave Sölden, a quick descent towards Oetz serves as a warm-up... but also as a trap: vigilance is required in these first kilometers where the peloton is dense. At Oetz (820 m), the first pass appears without warning: 18,5 km of climbing with 1 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 200%, but sections at 5,5% in the last kilometers. The first wooded slopes give way to a panorama of lakes and mountain pastures. Here, you have to manage your effort: it's long, and there are more than 18 km left to cover.
At the summit (2 m), the air is crisp, and a rapid descent (with sections at 020% where some reach speeds of almost 14 km/h) propels the runners towards Kematen, at an altitude of 100 m.
Brennerpass: the endless false flat (km 70 to 110)
As you leave Innsbruck, the Brenner presents itself. It is the antithesis of the Kühtai: 36 km of steady climb at 2-3%, over a wide route national. This "train" pass favors the formation of groups traveling fast. We pass along rivers and villages, and the Italian border is crossed almost without noticing. This is where we must eat and drink: the main part of the day is still to come.
Passo Giovo: the slap (km 155 to 170)
At San Leonardo, after a deceptive flat section, the climb begins again in earnest: 15,5 km at an average gradient of 7,5%, with peaks of 12%. route climbs in tight bends through the forest, before opening onto vast pastures. The effort is sustained, the sun often beats down strongly at this time, and each bend seems to push the summit back. At 2 m, the pass marks the end of the third major climb. A short visual break on the mountainstagsurrounding areas... then it's time for the most technical descent of the route: narrow, winding, with sometimes imperfect asphalt (long live Italy!).
Timmelsjoch: the final judge (km 193 to 222)
This is the legendary pass: 29 km, 1 m of elevation gain, an average gradient of 759% but with several kilometers above 6%. After the first few rolling kilometers, the route plunges into a mineral, almost lunar setting. The hairpin bends follow one after the other, the vegetation disappears, and the oxygen becomes scarce. The 14% sections arrive when the legs cry out for mercy. The last kilometers, exposed to the wind, offer a dizzying view of the Ötztal valley, while reminding us that a rapid descent towards Sölden remains to be negotiated.
225 km, 5 m of elevation gain, four extraordinary passes, and an arrival in a festive atmosphere in the heart of the resortFor many, finishing the Ötztaler is a personal victory; others will aim for a time. What matters is to complete one of the most beautiful cyclosportives in the world with a smile!
In 18 days, 4 participants will take up this challengeTo register for the 2026 edition, follow the information on the official website or social networks (Instagram, for example), where registrations generally open in December, followed by a draw at the beginning of the year. In the meantime, on August 31, follow the race live on the event website: HERE
