Thrive Gravel – Final Round of the GrALBA Series
📅 Date: Sunday 21st September
⏰ Ride Start: 10:30 GrALBA Race, 10:45 Explore
📍 Location: Ballater Town Hall
🎉 Part of: Thrive Mountain Bike Festival
Thrive Gravel marks the epic finale of the 2025 GrALBA Series, set in the heart of the Cairngorms as part of the Thrive Mountain Bike Festival. Join us for a spectacular day on the trails, as we celebrate another incredible season of gravel racing.
This final round will roll out from Ballater Town Hall at 10:30 sharp, taking riders on a stunning route through some of the most scenic and challenging terrain Scotland has to offer.
Pre-Ride Pizza Party & Race Briefing
Kick off the weekend right with our Pizza Party on Saturday 20th September – included with your ride entry!
📍 Location: Ballater Town Hall
🕕 Time: 17:00 - 20:00
Meet your fellow riders, fuel up with some hearty carbs, and get all the essential info you need during the official race briefing.
Whether you're chasing the podium or just riding for the love of the gravel, Thrive Gravel is the perfect way to close out the GrALBA season in style.
Don’t miss it – sign up now and be part of something epic!
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Glen Tanar Estate, the Thrive Ballater course blends fast, velvet-smooth gravel with chunky, more technical sections that nudge toward the MTB end of the spectrum. Expect flow, challenge, and one memorable river crossing that delivers those true “big country” gravel vibes.
Riders on the Explore option will take on a rewarding 82km loop, while the Gralba Race ups the intensity to 110km or 97km, featuring a main circuit followed by either three or two fast-paced finishing laps. Whether you’re chasing the clock or soaking up the scenery, this course strikes the perfect balance of speed, grit, and Highland adventure.
