Have you ever wanted to take part in a real cycle race with the feel of a professional event? A race with drink stations, different stages and cheering spectators lining the route? The VIKING GRAN FONDO offers just that. This experience is not only about challenging yourself. It’s also about being part of something bigger.
The race follows the route of an ancient road along a natural ridge in Jutland formerly used by pilgrims, merchants and Vikings. The full route is almost 300 kilometres long and features hairpin bends and steep climbs. However, participants are able to choose between traversing the entire route or completing one or more shorter stages. Cyclists of all ages and fitness levels are welcome to take part and road, gravel and MTB bikes are all permitted.
The journey begins at the beautiful Flensburg Fjord in Germany before entering Southern Jutland with panoramic views in all directions. Gradually, the mid-Jutland hills take over and the terrain becomes more undulating. Participants pass through rolling cornfields, forests, hills, lakes and historic settlements including the ancient Viking town of Jelling and King Harald Bluetooth’s famous runestone. The finish line of The VIKING GRAN FONDO is in Viborg, one of Denmark’s oldest and most charming cities. While different starting points exist, every route finishes at the same destination. The rest stops along the way are famous not only for their great food, but also their fantastic atmosphere.
The VIKING GRAN FONDO is part of the international event series L’Etape by Tour de France, which is organised in collaboration with the Tour de France organisers A.S.O.L’Etape. It is designed to make you feel like a Tour de France rider and let you enjoy a similar atmosphere to cycling’s most famous event.
In Denmark, the event is organised in cooperation with community clubs and associations that are located close to the route. Around 900 volunteers from various organisations are responsible for arranging the starts, erecting the signs and manningthe food and drink stations en-route and at the finish. The steering organisation is DGI, and the race receives support from Sport Event Denmark. In 2024 the Viking Gran Fondo was arranged for the 12th time
This concept has already been exported to many locations. Currently a total of 32 official L’Etape events take place in 25 different countries each year. Further details on how to set up an event in your location are available here
