If you’re looking to combine stunning scenery, epic climbs, and a buzzing atmosphere with thousands of fellow cyclists, Europe is packed with unforgettable sportives. Whether you’re chasing personal bests, bucket list climbs, or just soaking in the culture, these events deliver it all.
Here are 5 must-ride cycling sportives in Europe—with the legendary Mallorca 312 taking the top spot (yes, I’m biased… but for good reason!).
1. Mallorca 312 – Spain
📍 Location: Playa de Muro, Mallorca
📅 Date: Late April
🚴♂️ Distance Options: 312km, 225km, or 167km
The Mallorca 312 is hands down the number one sportive you need to ride. It’s not just about the distance—it’s the full experience. With fully closed roads, breathtaking coastal climbs, buzzing feed stations, and the electric post-ride atmosphere, this is one event you won’t forget.
Mallorca is already a dream cycling destination, but the 312 gives you the perfect excuse to experience it all in one day. Everyone should ride in Mallorca at least once, and this event is the ultimate way to do it.
✅ Pro Tip: The event fills fast, so get your entry and accommodation sorted early!
🎯 Need help training? Check out my Mallorca 312 Training Academy for structured plans, advice, and resources to get you to the start line in top form.
2. L’Étape du Tour – France
📍 Location: Varies annually (same route as a Tour de France mountain stage)
📅 Date: July
🚴♂️ Distance: ~130–180km with 3,000m+ climbing
If you want to know what it feels like to ride a full mountain stage of the Tour de France, the L’Étape du Tour is the real deal. The roads are closed, the crowds are wild, and the climbs are iconic—think Col du Galibier, Alpe d’Huez, or Tourmalet.
I’ve created a specific training plan for L’Étape to help riders prepare for the demands of this incredible challenge. It’s one of the toughest sportives out there, but with the right preparation, it’s 100% achievable and massively rewarding.
✅ Pro Tip: Focus on pacing and nutrition—those final climbs hit hard if you go out too hot.
3. Maratona dles Dolomites – Italy
📍 Location: Alta Badia, Dolomites
📅 Date: Early July
🚴♂️ Distance Options: 55km, 106km, 138km
This Italian classic delivers postcard-perfect scenery, immaculate organisation, and a festival-like vibe. With climbs like the Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, and Passo Giau, it’s a day of pure alpine magic during the Maratona dles Dolomites. The roads are silky smooth, the atmosphere is electric, and the Dolomites are simply unforgettable.
✅ Pro Tip: Stay a few extra days and explore the stunning mountain passes beyond the event.
4. Tour of Flanders Sportive – Belgium
📍 Location: Oudenaarde, Belgium
📅 Date: Early April (day before the pro race)
🚴♂️ Distance Options: 75km, 144km, 179km, or 235km
If you’ve ever wanted to ride like the classics pros, We Ride Flanders is your chance. Cobbled climbs, short sharp bergs, and iconic roads await. The atmosphere is second to none, and you’ll be riding with thousands of passionate fans the day before the pros battle it out on the same route.
✅ Pro Tip: Bring wider tyres and low gearing—those cobbled climbs are no joke!
5. Granfondo Stelvio Santini – Italy
📍 Location: Bormio, Italy
📅 Date: Early June
🚴♂️ Distance Options: 60km, 138km, or 151km
Few climbs are as mythical as the Passo dello Stelvio. The Granfondo Stelvio Santini lets you tackle it in all its glory. With switchbacks stacked to the sky, it’s a climb every cyclist should conquer at least once. The event is well-organized, tough but achievable, and rewards you with jaw-dropping views from the summit.
✅ Pro Tip: Pack for all weather—conditions at the top of the Stelvio can change fast!
Final Thoughts
These five sportives are more than just events—they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether it’s the Mediterranean charm of Mallorca or the Tour de France roads of L’Étape, each one offers a unique challenge and unforgettable memories.
Ready to start training?
Check out my L’Étape Training Plan or Mallorca 312 Training Plan Alternatively, get in touch to learn how I can help you prepare for any of these iconic rides.
