Octopus Gravel

Octopus Gravel takes its name from its shape: the festival area in Andermatt is the head and body, and eight dead-end gravel climbs reach out from it like arms. Every climb brings you back to the centre for food, drinks, music and the expo, and you decide for yourself how many arms you tackle, collecting a stamp at the top of each.

Andermatt is better known as a road cycling crossroads at the foot of the Gotthard, Furka, Susten, Grimsel and Oberalp passes, but the organisers set out to show its spectacular dead-end gravel roads: smooth fire roads, rough tarmac and easy singletrack, with a steeper, bumpier trail up the Gotthard. Those who want to race can go for three short timed climbs, with prizes for the fastest women and men.

It is part of the Epicos gravel series, built around great routes, spectacular views, festival vibes and a good time on and off the bike. The weekend opens with a gravel talk and a cycling movie night and closes with an after party and optional hangover rides.