If you're tempted to write your name on the oldest cycling race 🚲 in Spain 🇪🇸, sign up for the Prueba Blan race held in the Spanish Basque Country, between Pamplona and Bilbao, in Vitoria Gasteiz. The history of this race dates back to 1955. You probably didn't know how to ride a bike back then, and we hope that's changed because you'll need to be skilled on a racing bike. This race is open to everyone, provided you're well-prepared 🙋. Why? Because it's about completing 154 km with 1,800 m of elevation gain in one go while staying in the pack if possible 🥵. To know the route, just refer to its name. BLAN for the start of each province it crosses: Burgos, La Rioja, Alava, and Navarra. Everything starts in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the seat of the Basque Parliament and the capital of Euskadi. This city 🏢 is known for its numerous natural 🌳 areas close to the Rioja Alavesa, a world-famous wine region 🍷. But you won't really be there for that. After crossing the picturesque villages of the Alava plain ⛰️, your calves will need to be ready. At Puerto de Azaceta, the ascent begins. The Zaldiaran Pass is the ultimate test before reaching the capital of Álava. Once at the top, enjoy the descent for the views of the Sierra of Alava, through Maeztu and Antoñana, to Santa Cruz de Campezo. Here, it's the turn to enter Navarre 🚵. You'll need stamina to continue on the spectacular route that descends to Aguilar de Codés, in open nature, to Viana. The kilometers tick by on your counter ⏱️… Logroño, Laguardia, Labastida, and the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa. After Zambrana and the second refreshment point where you'll have regained strength, head towards Burgos and the Zaldiaran Pass through Treviño, which will lead you to the finish line at Mendizorrotza.
If you have any energy left after the race, feel free to enjoy the region's tourist attractions. Burgos is a city where medieval constructions will take you on a journey through history. We recommend taking a look at its cathedral ⛪. If you're a gourmet, the Rioja Alavesa is worth a visit. Why? It offers diverse landscapes, villages surrounded by walls, and especially cellars where a renowned vintage wine is crafted 🍇.
The Blan Test is a single loop 🔄. The start is given at Vitoria-Gasteiz. Then head towards the picturesque small villages of the plains of Alava, followed by the ascent of the pass of Zaldiaran. After the descent, you will be acquainted with the landscapes of the Sierra of Alava before entering Navarre. The kilometers pass by on the vineyard road 🍷. It is a demanding course that requires being trained for the exercise and knowing how to ride in a peloton. The pedal strokes take you to Burgos, then the finish line at Mendizorrotza 🏁.
Race numbers can be picked up at the Mendizorrotza Sports Center (Plaza Amadeo García de Salazar, s/n) in Vitoria-Gasteiz:
Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
The race will start on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM.
Viana (Km. 66) Solid and liquid
Zambrana (Km. 122) Liquid
Finish line in Vitoria (Km. 155) Solid and liquid
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