Road Cycling Collection by Paul Voß
3
Tours
38:17 h
468 mi
53,500 ft
I needed some time to let this adventure sink in.
Badlands did not disappoint.
It was hard and challenging.
The region in southern Spain is beautiful.
The riders at the start line were impressive.
It was tough to find food and water.
It was an unforgettable 750 kilometres (466 mi) ride with 16,000 metres (52,500 ft) of altitude in 60 hours and 42 minutes. It was my first event of this kind and I didn't know what I was getting myself into. It was brutally hot. The course had challenging climbs, but the descents also demanded everything from me.
I saw landscapes that I wouldn't have expected to see in Europe. I learned what my body can endure and where its limits perhaps lie. I’ve never had to push myself to my physical and mental limits as much as I did on Badlands. I've experienced a lot as a professional cyclist, but nothing compares to this. Also, I was also prouder of my performance after this than after any other race.
I didn't win, I didn't manage to do the whole distance at once without sleeping, but I still feel happy.
My respect goes to all the participants because they are all winners. I now know why this type of event has a different vibe than road races – it's about pushing your personal limits and reaching your own goals. I've enjoyed racing and competing with some of the best athletes in this segment.
Gravel is really anything you want it to be!
Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full Tour below as a template.
Last updated: December 3, 2021
As soon as I was at the start of the race, it was clear: This is something special! The atmosphere was just brilliant and the first kilometers out of town were accompanied by the rising sun with magical light. Everything together made for a little too much motivation, so that I tackled the race too quickly…
by Paul Voß
Although I was pretty exhausted yesterday evening, I felt amazingly good on the bike today. In addition, the route today was extremely varied, so that I could really enjoy the day. It felt like I was slow the whole time. Apparently I wasn't, because I was able to catch up with a lot of athletes. Although…
by Paul Voß
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
After a short night's rest, I drove on. The route led along a beautiful coastal road - at least that's what I assumed. Unfortunately, I couldn't see much of it, after all, it was still dark. At least I made good progress, which was also due to the fact that the route was almost flat. But that was soon…
by Paul Voß
Road Cycling Collection by Café du Cycliste
Road Cycling Collection by Mark Beaumont
Hiking Collection by Nadine
Hiking Collection by Mareike