Heidelberg Challenge 2026

Take on an unforgettable endurance adventure across Europe. Teams of four will ride in relay over three days, covering hundreds of miles through France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany — before finishing in spectacular style in the heart of Stuttgart at its world-famous Oktoberfest, the Cannstatter Volksfest.

The journey begins in Arras, Northern France, where teams will arrive on the afternoon of Wednesday 23rd September. Accommodation is arranged for all riders, with the evening free to enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants around the beautiful Place des Héros — a relaxed start before the challenge begins.

Day 1 – Thursday 24th September
Arras to Arlon (Luxembourg) – 214 miles

The Challenge begins early, heading east out of Arras through Northern France and into Belgium, before tackling the rolling terrain of the Ardennes. The day finishes in Arlon, on the Luxembourg border, where we’ll come together for dinner at the Hotel Luxembourg – Arlon at 8:00pm — a chance to refuel, share stories, and prepare for the days ahead.

Day 2 – Friday 25th September
Arlon to Mainz (Germany) – 177 miles

Crossing Luxembourg and into Germany, the route winds through the dramatic landscapes of the Hunsrück mountains and National Park. The day concludes in Mainz, set on the banks of the Rhine, where we’ll stay and dine at the H2 Hotel — a perfect setting to unwind after another big day in the saddle.

Day 3 – Saturday 26th September
Mainz to Heidelberg to Stuttgart – 170 miles

The final push takes us south from the Rhine through the Odenwald National Park to the stunning city of Heidelberg. Here, we’ll pause briefly at the headquarters of our main sponsor, Heidelberg Materials, before continuing on to Stuttgart.

Crossing the finish line marks the end of the Challenge — but the celebrations are just beginning. We’ll head straight to the Cannstatter Volksfest, Germany’s second-largest beer festival, to celebrate in style. Lederhosen and dirndls are strongly encouraged as we raise a glass together to an incredible achievement.

In early September, all teams will receive GPX route files, ready to download onto your preferred navigation device or smartphone. Whether riding or supporting, you’ll have everything you need to stay on track throughout the event.

Each team manages its own strategy during the day — deciding when to rotate riders, how to pace the journey, and ensuring you’re fuelled and ready for the road ahead. It’s a true team effort, combining endurance, logistics, and camaraderie.

The cost of entry is £2,000 per team of 4 (£500 p/person). If you've previously ridden in one of our Challenges and bring a new team for the Brittany Challenge, your team will get a refund of £100.

Since 1996, Challenge Adventure Charities has riased £4,664,058 for national charities and hundreds of personally nominated charities on behalf of our riders.  To participate in this year's Challenge, riders have to raise a minimum of £1,500 sponsorship per team.  100% of sponsorship will be donated to charity - 50% going to Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation and the remaining 50% to teams' nominated charities