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7th to 11th October 2026

Gravel reaches a new level at Roc d’Azur CIC 2026.

July 17, 2026 at 1:27 PM
  • Four gravel events ranging from 33 to 143 km, offering something for every rider—from discovery rides to long-distance sporting challenges.
  • New for 2026: the Canyon Gravel Roc Sprint, a short, fast and intense format.
  • Two exceptional playgrounds to explore: the protected Massif de l’Estérel and Massif des Maures.

Between the red rocks of the Estérel, the wild forests of the Massif des Maures and breathtaking Mediterranean views, Roc d’Azur CIC 2026 offers a unique immersion into the world of gravel riding. Ten years after introducing its first gravel routes, this discipline halfway between road cycling and mountain biking has become a cornerstone of the event. Roc d’Azur CIC now confirms its status as a benchmark event with four races designed for every level of rider.

Two mountain ranges, two unique experiences

Gravel riding finds an exceptional playground at Roc d’Azur CIC, in the heart of protected natural landscapes. In the Massif de l’Estérel, riders cross spectacular scenery shaped by red volcanic rock, with stunning views over the Mediterranean. Further north, the Massif des Maures reveals a different character, with forest tracks and more rugged terrain. In just a few kilometres, the scenery changes and so do the sensations.

In 2026, Roc d’Azur CIC offers a complete and diverse gravel programme. The gravel events begin on Thursday, October 8, with the Canyon Gravel Roc Sprint in Roquebrune-sur-Argens. Covering 33.2 km with 810 metres of elevation gain, this short, fast and timed race delivers a concentrated gravel experience, combining flowing tracks, punchy accelerations and technical sections.

On Friday, October 9, the Canyon Rando Gravel Estérel, starting from Saint-Raphaël, takes participants through the iconic landscapes of the Estérel on a 70.4 km route featuring 1,223 metres of elevation gain.

On Saturday, October 10, attention shifts to the Massif des Maures for the Continental Gravel Roc (77.4 km, 1,515 metres of elevation gain), a competitive event aimed at experienced riders. The same day, the Alltricks Rando Gravel offers a true long-distance adventure, covering 143.2 km with 2,230 metres of elevation gain. True to the spirit of gravel riding, the route is unmarked and navigated exclusively via GPS, offering participants the thrill of exploration.

Gravel: one of cycling’s fastest-growing disciplines

In just a few years, gravel has become one of the fastest-growing cycling disciplines. Driven by a desire for freedom and versatility, it appeals to an increasingly broad audience. According to figures from the Union Sport & Cycle, 75,000 gravel bikes were sold in 2025, representing an 18% increase compared with 2024. This growth continues the strong upward trend observed since 2019.*

Canyon, a key player in an inclusive discipline

As a long-standing major partner of Roc d’Azur CIC, Canyon plays an active role in the development of gravel riding.

“Gravel has a unique magic: it appeals equally to experienced specialists and complete newcomers. At Canyon, we see gravel as a particularly inclusive discipline,” says Rodolphe Beyer, CEO of Canyon France.

Read the full interview on our website.

*Source: L’Observatoire du Cycle 2026, Union Sport & Cycle.

An environmental charter to protect the playground

To enjoy this unique playground, participants must also help preserve it. In 2026, every entrant is required to read and sign an environmental charter, committing to leave no litter outside designated collection areas, sort waste properly, stay strictly on the marked course, use reusable containers whenever possible, and adopt environmentally responsible behaviour. This initiative reflects Roc d’Azur CIC’s commitment to promoting responsible riding while protecting the natural spaces crossed by the event.

This commitment is backed by concrete actions throughout the year. Roc d’Azur CIC contributes to the maintenance of the mountain ranges used by the event in partnership with the Association Roque d’Azur, the Conservatoire du Littoral, and the French National Forest Office (ONF), including the restoration of trails that also improve access for emergency services. Together with the Clean My Nature association, waste collection systems are deployed along the courses, and a Clean Walk is organised ahead of the event to raise public awareness of environmental protection. A dedicated educational booklet, produced with CIC, is also distributed to young participants to encourage both sporting participation and respect for the environment.

In 2026, Roc d’Azur CIC is also partnering with the Gustave Roussy Institute, its featured charity partner, to raise awareness about cancer screening and support cancer research.