Initially a project of the pandemic, we first organised the Vertical Brevet in 2021 and challenged the riders to a long and hilly ride through the vast Swiss Midlands and into the Jura Mountain Range, connecting five checkpoints along the free route. In 2022, we decided to give the riders the opportunity to discover the small and quiet roads in the Vertical HQ backyard and changed the ride mode to a fixed route. We were amazed how much elevation gain is actually possible within a relatively small area with a maximum possible elevation just shy of 900m above sea level. On our terrain, consisting of punchy Ardennes style hills, it's no problem to pack upwards of 5'000m of elevation gain into a 250km route and make the ride a real classic. Split into four loops starting and ending at Vertical HQ, giving everyone a chance of good coffee, tasty snacks, a change of clothes and a recharge of any devices, the event not only cuts down the distance into manageable portions, it also gives everyone the possibility of some social interaction while refuelling and recharging.
In 2025 we’ll be taking a break from the Vertical Brevet, but there will be a total of five Discovery Rides, two on gravel/mixed surface and three on the road.
For folks keen on testing the waters of the Vertical Brevet and getting an idea of the terrain, roads and spirit before they sign up for the big challenge, we introduced the Discovery Rides in 2023. They are shorter than the Brevet and the loops can be ridden in a self-chosen order. Most roads are the same as in the Brevet, as is the ratio of distance to climbing and of course the snacks and coffee in between the loops. Due to the shorter overall distance, the Discovery Rides are relaxed and a very nice community has evolved around them. The spots of all rides are limited - and every participant is not only greatly cherished but is also an important and integral part of the event itself: In times of consumerism and fomo, it's important to us that the riders take their time and truly cherish and respect what's around them - the other riders, the roads, the views and terrain, the food and drinks and yes, the hosts.
8.03.2025 - Gravel Ride 60-80km
5.04.2025 - Road Ride 80-100km (ca. 1’500-2’000m climbing)
3.05.2025 - Gravel Ride 100-120km
7.06.2025 - Road Ride 120-140km (ca. 2’000- 2’500m climbing)
6.09.2025 - Road Ride ca. 160km (ca. 3’000m climbing)
Registration opens on January 1st 2025 at 8am - the link will magically appear at the very bottom of this page in due time!
You can also follow us on Instagram @vertical_brevet for news, information and random stuff.
In the meantime, if you need some route inspiration and want to recon some Brevet roads, hit the button below and find an array of routes that were ridden in past events. Happy and safe riding!
