Gravel biking trends expand across Europe with new destinations and equipment

The popularity of gravel biking continues to grow, driving the development of specialized cycling destinations and high-performance equipment. In Europe, several regions are positioning themselves as hubs for off-road enthusiasts by offering extensive route networks and specialized infrastructure.

In the Allgäu Alps, the Tannheimertal region in Tyrol, Austria, has emerged as a central point for gravel bikers, featuring an accessible network of unpaved mountain roads and hotels tailored to cyclists' needs. In Germany, Eisenbach in the Black Forest serves as a base for riders seeking access to diverse forest networks and logistical support such as laundry services for cycling gear. Additionally, Central Carinthia in Austria offers routes through rolling hills and plateaus, with accommodation options in modernized historic monastery complexes.

On the equipment side, recent testing by IMTEST evaluated five gravel bike models for versatility across asphalt and gravel. The Liv Devote Advanced 1 M, a carbon model designed specifically for women's anatomy, was named the overall test winner, making it ideal for long-distance bikepacking. The Stevens Prestige Generation 2 was recognized as the best value-for-money option among models priced under 3,200 euros.