5 bikepacking events to discover in 2025

Updated on 2025-01-09
Evenement bikepacking Bivouak

In recent years, new bikepacking events have sprung up to satisfy our insatiable thirst for adventure by bike. Bikepacking is the best way to discover the world in a different way, whether you're itinerant, riding at your own pace or looking for a personal challenge. It combines adventure, freedom and exploration, and is accessible to all levels. For this selection of the best bikepacking events of 2025, we have taken into account one essential criterion: their commitment to gender equality, to create a new, naturally inclusive bike culture.

Caroline Prigent
Caroline Prigent
Caroline works in the field of environmental transition and loves to take on projects that have an impact! She co-created Bivouak, fun, free and responsible gravel adventures! Photo: @gromince

1. La Mad Jacques – Get started with friends!

The Mad Jacques are adventure races with over 500 participants, offering weekend hikes, bike rides and even hitchhiking! Here, the atmosphere is more festive than sporting, perfect for a no-pressure introduction to the sport and a chance to get your feet wet without even realizing it. It’s the Mad Jacques “traquenard” principle: you take your mates on a weekend fiesta to discover a region and its terroir, and they end up passionate about cycling!

In short, the Mad Jacques is ideal for a first weekend cycling tour. Daily distances are adapted to all levels and all types of bikes. Logistics are easy, with organized meals and the option of renting a tent. With editions all year round, there’s no excuse not to take the plunge!

2. Bivouak – Go on an adventure and meet new people

Bivouak offers bikepacking events over a weekend or a week. Bivouak adventures are invitations to reconnect with oneself and with nature. In 2025, the great Bivouak adventure links Lyon to Italy via the Alps. It’s called “La Pasta”: 3 itineraries with 3 different levels. Choose the level that suits you and come and discover the beauty of the mountains, make new friends and enjoy the best Pasta!

Bivouak was created by Charlotte and myself, convinced that we need to transform the way we travel with events that are accessible by train, and offer real experiences of discovering new territories! Joining a Bivouak event means taking part in an extraordinary sporting and human adventure, all the pleasure of bikepacking.

3. Bicicleta Ravito – Discover a unique place

Nestled in the heart of the Lot region, Bicicleta Ravito is a unique place, an ode to cycling. Founded by two cycling enthusiasts, this magical venue offers gravel and road events departing from their charming guesthouse. Every detail – from the carefully designed routes to the inspiring signage – is an invitation to dream and explore.

With Bicicleta Ravito, discover breathtaking landscapes, savor authentic local cuisine and share unique moments with other enthusiasts. Here, adventure meets comfort and authenticity.

4. Along Bikepacking – For your first long-distance trip

Organized by SCOPS, the Along Bikepacking is an adventure that links Dijon to Paris on a gravel track meticulously prepared by the talented and attentive Pierre-Charles. Over the course of two days, participants cover a relatively flat itinerary that’s well thought out (like the soup at the ravito).

This event is perfect for those who want to try their hand at bikepacking on their own, while benefiting from friendly supervision. An ideal experience to discover the magic of roaming and gravel.

5. The Desertus Bikus – A bikepacking race for the ultimate challenge

With Desertus, the bikepacking adventure takes on another dimension: that of a real race, a rally-raid, an unforgettable 1200 km experience across Spain, both demanding and exhilarating.

In this event, with over 40% women, the 300 participants are completely autonomous, managing their own itinerary, refreshments and accommodation. The Desertus will appeal to your sense of achievement and your taste for the unexpected, all in a very friendly and festive atmosphere at the finish.

The bikepacking events of 2025 are your chance to discover the world differently, to push your limits and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s an adventure waiting for you. So get your bike and panniers ready, and embark on one of these unique experiences!