The Traka

Late April in Girona. The roads around the start fill with gravel bikes from across Europe and beyond. La Traka continues to be Europe's gravel reference race.

The riding lives up to it. Klassmark's courses pull you through the Empordà and the Costa Brava - volcanic hinterland, cork oak forests, climbs out of the Pyrenean foothills - on a mix of forestry road, broken asphalt, and the occasional dry wash. Surfaces are usually dry in April but you may get unlucky; technical sections can feel reckless at speed and require a steady hand.

Format change for 2027: 3 distances instead of 4, with the Traka 560 discontinued, the Traka 300 becoming the only distance for pros, framed by Klassmark as "a more selective, competitive and safe field."

This is a competitive event, a ride that can feel tense, even in the Open category. Many riders come to the Traka to race and perhaps miss out on the incredible scenery around them. You can expect lots of noise and celebration at the finish line, followed by a generous buffet.

Book accommodation early as Girona fills up especially given the size of the event. Expect rolling expo days, a strong post-race scene, and queues at every café in town. If you've never been to Girona for gravel, this might be the weekend to come, or not.