Backroad Contrabandistes
Key facts
- Date:
- 13 sep
- Type:
- Gran fondo / Ride
- Andorra (frontera) · Andorra · Spain
- Distances:
- 102 km; 51 km
- Elevation:
- 3.170 m
- Price:
- Por confirmar
About
The Backroad Contrabandistes pays tribute to the historic smugglers' and traders' routes between Andorra and Spain, mountain paths that connected two worlds for centuries. Offering distances of 102 km and 51 km with 3,170 m of elevation gain, the route follows Pyrenean trails of great beauty and technical challenge. Forest tracks, panoramic mountain passes and steep descents combine into a riding day with genuine character, framed as a cicloturista ride rather than a strict race. For those tackling the 102 km option, the concentrated elevation demands solid specific climbing strength; in Push Training 360 the threshold-building phase includes short ramp strength intervals and optimal cadence work on punchy climbs typical of the Andorran Pyrenees, with the coach adjusting load week by week based on FTP progression.
Frequently asked questions
When does Backroad Contrabandistes take place in 2026?
Backroad Contrabandistes takes place on 13 September 2026, starting from the Andorra border.
What distances and elevation gain does Backroad Contrabandistes have?
The event offers two distances: 102 km and 51 km, with 3,170 m of accumulated elevation gain in both formats.
Where does Backroad Contrabandistes start?
The start is at the Andorra border. The event is linked to the Spanish cycling calendar but takes place in Andorran territory.
How to prepare for Backroad Contrabandistes with PUSH TRAINING 360?
PUSH TRAINING 360 is a 12-week plan with weekly review, 4 phases (aerobic base, threshold building, specificity load, and tapering), and nutrition in 3 phases. For Backroad Contrabandistes, with 3,170 m of elevation gain over 51 or 102 km, the specificity phase focuses on climbing intervals on uneven terrain with low traction. Pacing prioritises effort management on the Andorran mountain passes to arrive at the final section with reserves intact. The nutritional strategy is adapted to altitude and the temperature variations typical of the Pyrenees.
What kind of event is Backroad Contrabandistes?
It is a non-competitive cycling ride with options of 102 km and 51 km, taking place in Andorra and linked to the Spanish cycling calendar.
Want us to coach you?
Pick your race and we build the plan: training, nutrition and mindset in a 12-week program with that event as the goal. Limited spots per edition.
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