The Ultra Raid Samoëns 2026, held from June 5 to 7 in the picturesque Haute-Savoie region of France, offered mountain biking enthusiasts a challenging and visually stunning experience. Hosted in the charming village of Samoëns, the event attracted riders from around the globe to tackle its demanding courses.
Event Overview
The Ultra Raid Samoëns is part of the Ultra Raid Series, a collection of cross-country marathon events designed for riders seeking both physical challenges and breathtaking alpine scenery. Participants had the flexibility to choose from various formats, including multi-day challenges or single-stage races, catering to a wide range of skill levels and preferences. (ultra-raid-des-3-vallees.com)
Race Formats and Routes
The event featured several race formats, each offering a unique challenge:
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Ultra 4000: A three-day challenge covering 25 km with 800 meters of elevation gain on Friday, 35 km with 1,500 meters of elevation gain on Saturday, and 30 km with 1,200 meters of elevation gain on Sunday.
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Ultra 5000: This format included 25 km with 800 meters of elevation gain on Friday, 60 km with 2,400 meters of elevation gain on Saturday, and 50 km with 2,300 meters of elevation gain on Sunday.
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Ultra 7000: The most demanding option, featuring 25 km with 800 meters of elevation gain on Friday, 75 km with 2,800 meters of elevation gain on Saturday, and 75 km with 3,600 meters of elevation gain on Sunday.
For those seeking an even more intense experience, the Ultra Ultime offered a single-day challenge on Saturday, June 6, covering 125 km with 6,700 meters of elevation gain. (kerrun.com)
Race Highlights
The courses traversed the rugged terrains of the Grand Massif and Aravis mountain ranges, incorporating technical singletracks, steep ascents, and panoramic alpine passes. Notable segments included the Col de Pierre Carrée at 1,844 meters and the Col de Joux Plane at 1,700 meters, both offering challenging climbs and rewarding descents. (kerrun.com)
Event Experience
Riders were treated to a well-organized event, with marked trails, professional timing, and support services such as aid stations, bike wash facilities, and mechanical assistance. The event also featured a festive atmosphere with concerts, activities for all ages, and a friendly “cycle & outdoor” exhibition, enhancing the overall experience for participants and spectators alike. (booking.samoens.com)
Conclusion
The inaugural Ultra Raid Samoëns 2026 successfully combined physical endurance with the natural beauty of the French Alps, providing mountain biking enthusiasts with an unforgettable adventure. Whether participants were aiming to push their limits or simply enjoy a weekend immersed in nature, the event offered a unique and challenging experience that showcased the spirit of the Ultra Raid Series.