The Hellenic Mountain Race is a fixed route, unsupported, single-stage cycling race through the mountains of Greece. The clock does not stop, and there are no prizes. For those brave and hardened enough to participate, this event offers another perspective on this historic country.
The route will travel far from the beaches and islands that most visitors are aware of. It will head to the north and west: to the steep, forested slopes of the Pindus Mountains. You will be surprised by how wild and remote this part of the world is. You will, however, recognise of Greece the warmth of its people and the taste of its food. There is some hike-a-bike, and at times, great distances between resupply points. The event organisers hope that the views and character of the special places they want to share with you will make up for the effort it will take to get there.
This year’s edition of the Hellenic Mountain Race spans 883 kilometers, with a staggering 27,800 meters of climbing, taking riders from the dramatic monasteries of Meteora to the charming Venetian port town of Nafpaktos. The route offers a blend of unpaved roads, tarmac, ancient stone pathways, and sections of singletrack, with 53% of the course being unpaved. Along the way, riders will validate their progress at three checkpoints: Smolikas, Melissourgi, and Karpenisi, before tackling the final stretch over Diaselo Kaliakoudas pass and descending into Nafpaktos.
The route emphasizes the dramatic landscapes of the Pindus Mountains, with riders transitioning from dense forests to high-altitude, barren peaks reminiscent of Kyrgyzstan. The race promises a challenging yet unforgettable journey through Greece’s rugged terrain, combining adventure, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty.
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