23-30th May, 2026
Applications to race in 2026 are now closed!
The fourth edition of the Hellenic Mountain Race is a year of change. Riders will follow a 922 kilometre route with 27,831m of vertical elevation gain. This year we start in Agios Athanasios, a picturesque stone village to the west of Thessaloniki and again ride down the length of Greece to the picturesque, fortified Venetian port town of Nafpaktos, at the southern edge of the mainland, on the Gulf of Corinth. 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.
You can view the route in greater detail on Ride With GPS.
WHY GREECE?
Greece is famous for its rich history and archeological heritage, stretching back thousands of years, its countless islands, pristine beaches, rich culinary tradition and so much more. What interests us though, is the lesser known, mountainous region to the northwest of the country. This is a part of the country that is dominated by the Pindus Mountains. It is here that we wish to take you on another kind of Greek adventure, far from the throngs of visitors to its more famous attractions. One that features steep, forested mountains, picturesque stone villages, endless gravel roads, ancient stone bridges and pathways, soaring peaks and open vistas. One where you will go many kilometres without seeing another human being, but when you do, will be welcomed with warmth and hospitality. One where the road is difficult but the reward is well worth it, be it the views or the generous portions of hearty, home cooked mountain food.
Categories: Racers can ride solo or as a pair
Cost: £375 per rider + £40 tracker rental if required (one tracker per participant for pairs) + £50 media license for sponsored riders
The Hellenic Mountain Race is a serious undertaking that should not be underestimated. It takes place in an environment that can be as tough as it is beautiful. It requires not only the ability to ride big days back to back, but also knowledge and experience of self-reliance in a remote mountain environment. Although it is definitely a race, your primary concern should always be your own safety. Riders will experience the natural beauty of Northern Greece, and the warmth and generosity of its people. It is an experience that will likely stay with you a lifetime.
APPLYING TO RACE
Ideally riders should have experience with multi-day bikepacking trips — preferably off-road in remote areas. Riders need to understand how to look after themselves in a harsh environment, when they’re exhausted and near their limits.
We don’t want the races to seem like something that is completely off-limits to anyone except the most hardcore bikepacking racers. All those who wish to race will be required to complete an application that assesses your ability to make safe decisions in the mountains.
