04.-06.09.2026
THE HEART OF THE NEW 3RIDES GRAVEL OSTBELGIEN IS THE GRAVEL STAGE RACE. THREE STAGES—YOU DECIDE WHETHER TO GO FOR THE OVERALL VICTORY OR PICK OUT INDIVIDUAL STAGES. HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF THE STAGES.
04.-06. SEPTEMBER 2026 IN EUPEN
STAGE 1: THE GRAVEL TIME TRIAL AS AN EXPLOSIVE START
23 kilometers, 300 meters of elevation gain
The 3RIDES Gravel Ostbelgien weekend kicks off with a highlight—just as it did during the first edition of the Gravel Stage Race in Winterberg: the first stage, featuring an individual start, is designed as an explosive gravel time trial. With two-thirds off-road sections, tough passages, and high intensity on varied terrain, the prologue immediately sets the tone for the standings, but it's also ideal for riders without racing experience to gain some competitive experience over a short distance.
The first stage doesn't just have to be combined with the following stages as part of the overall classification. You can also ride the prologue as a kickoff to the weekend and combine it with one of the rides on Saturday. Pick the best of both worlds and build your own gravel weekend program however you like!
Over the 23 kilometers, you'll cover 300 meters of elevation gain and put your fitness to the test in the wooded surroundings of Eupen.
STAGE 1: ROUTE AND ELEVATION PROFILE
STAGE 2: THE CENTERPIECE
73 / 109.5 km, 900 / 1,350 m of elevation gain, 2 / 3 laps
The second stage is the endurance centerpiece of the 3RIDES Gravel Stage Race, taking the field deep into the untouched nature of the High Fens-Eifel Nature Park. The route initially follows the course of the Hill upstream before a long, steady climb through the Hertogenwald forest up to the high moor begins. Once at the top, wide, exposed areas and the typical Fen landscape dominate the scenery, demanding full concentration from the riders.
Via rolling forest paths and fast descents, the race finally returns to the valley, with the lonely silence of the forest interrupted only by the hum of the tires.
STAGE 2: ROUTE AND ELEVATION PROFILE
04.-06. SEPTEMBER 2026 IN EUPEN
STAGE 3: THE FINALE
94 / 141 kilometers, 1,500 / 2,250 meters of elevation, 2 / 3 laps
The final stage (47 km / lap) is the topographical highlight and leads to the striking edges of the High Fens. After starting in Eupen, the course makes a wide loop to the south, passing deep valleys and rugged forest slopes.
The grueling climb up near the Baraque Michel plateau marks the geographical peak and, due to its exposure to the wind, triggers the race-deciding selection.
The thrilling finale leads across rolling terrain back into the Hertogenwald, where endurance and tactics over the final kilometers will decide the overall victory in the shadow of the Eupen Weser Dam.
STAGE 3: ROUTE AND ELEVATION PROFILE
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Do you have questions about the Gravel Stage Race at 3RIDES Gravel Ostbelgien? You can find all the key information in our FAQs.
