Trofeo BTT Gravel Ciudad Tres Cantos

Trofeo BTT Gravel Ciudad Tres Cantos

Tres Cantos · February 1, 2026

GravelIntermediate

A gravel ride that opens the Madrid cyclosportive season every February, starting and finishing in Tres Cantos with two routes, 102 km and 60 km, along tracks and trails north of Madrid.

Trofeo BTT Gravel Ciudad Tres Cantos 2026 has already taken place

Start preparing for the next one: arrive with your gear tested and your form dialled in.

See the 360 Pack →

Trofeo BTT Gravel Ciudad Tres Cantos

The Trofeo BTT Gravel Ciudad Tres Cantos opens the Madrid cyclosportive season every February, becoming the first major date on the regional calendar for gravel lovers. Organized by Club Ciclista Tres Cantos, the event has grown edition after edition into a reference for those looking to start the year on two wheels off the asphalt.

A 102 or 60 kilometer route through northern Madrid

The event offers two distances: a long 102 km route and a short 60 km route, both laid out along tracks and trails in the north of the Community of Madrid, mixing fast sections with the more uneven surfaces typical of gravel. The climbing is moderate compared to the Sierra de Guadarrama rides, making it an accessible option for those starting out in the discipline without giving up a demanding challenge on the long route.

The ride that kicks off the cyclosportive calendar

Taking place in early February gives this ride a special character: it’s usually the first organized event of the year in the region, attracting both cyclists testing their winter form and those simply eager to get back to racing as soon as possible. The organization coordinates Madrid Cup categories for licensed riders alongside the cyclosportive category open to all levels.

Tres Cantos beyond the ride

Tres Cantos, just 25 km from central Madrid, combines the comfort of a well-planned city with direct access to training routes toward the mountains. Its proximity to the capital makes it a convenient starting point for those traveling from further afield who want to use the weekend to explore Madrid. Discover more rides in the region at Madrid.

Your 360 Pack

Everything you need to prepare for this event, in one place.

Trofeo BTT Gravel Tres Cantos registration

Registration is managed through the Madrid Cycling Federation and the organizing club's website, with a Madrid Cup category for licensed riders.

Tips

  • February tends to be cold in Tres Cantos: check the forecast before deciding on layers

Where to stay for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

Tres Cantos is 25 km from central Madrid, so most riders do the event as a day trip without needing accommodation.

Tips

  • If coming from out of town, central Madrid has more hotel options than Tres Cantos

Bike gear for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

The tracks and trails north of Madrid mix fast sections with more technical stretches, where a well-equipped gravel bike makes the difference.

Tips

  • Gravel tires around 40-45c strike a good balance between rolling speed and grip on this course

Technical clothing for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

February mornings in Tres Cantos run cold, with a chance of frost on early starts.

Tips

  • Bring layers you can remove as the temperature rises

Nutrition for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

On the 102 km route it's worth planning solid fuelling, especially in cold weather when the body burns more energy staying warm.

Tips

  • Cold weather blunts thirst cues: drink even if you don't feel like it

How to get to Tres Cantos

Tres Cantos is well connected to central Madrid via the A-1 motorway and commuter rail, under 30 minutes from the centre.

Tips

  • Tres Cantos commuter rail station is a short distance from the start

Sports insurance for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

As a federated event with a Madrid Cup category, a federative licence or one-day insurance is mandatory.

Tips

  • Federative licence or one-day insurance required

Body care for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

Uneven gravel terrain demands more from stabilising muscles than asphalt, which shows up especially in recovery.

Tips

  • Stretch your forearms and back after the effort on trails

Bike components for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

As it counts toward the Madrid Cup, many riders take on the race at competitive pace; power meter pedals let you control your effort over the 102 km.

Tips

  • Set power alerts if you plan to ride in the lead group through the gravel sections

Sunglasses for the Trofeo Gravel Tres Cantos

Dust kicked up by the peloton on the dirt sections is one of gravel racing's main discomforts; well-fitted sunglasses mean you don't have to slow down to clear your eyes.

Tips

  • Adjust the frame well before the start: on gravel, vibration can shift loose-fitting sunglasses

Guides to get you ready

Other events you might like