Adventurer and bon vivant Dirk Spits organizes a small but wonderful cycling event in the Swiss Alps: The Sidetrack E P I C It is not a bikepacking event, but is partly self-supporting, with all the luxuries of a hotel—a guarantee of memories for life.

The origins

Dirk himself lived in Switzerland for some time, and during his training rides, he was always captivated by the beauty of the surroundings and the quiet roads. He, therefore, decided to set up a tour with a unique concept. Now many events call it that, but the concept of The Sidetrack E P I C is so unique that even we didn't know it yet.

That's in the first place in the route. Instead of checking off the familiar names, you follow the more unfamiliar quiet and beautiful Swiss roads. But make no mistake, in 190 km you overcome a staggering 5000 meters of elevation. Along the way, you can encounter everything from rolling hills to the tough (unknown) cols at the foot of Swiss Alps, accompanied by blue lakes and snow-capped peaks.

Comfort of a hotel

Dirk is originally a bikepacker but understands that not everyone is comfortable cycling with all kinds of bags and sleeping in a tent. At The Sidetrack E P I C, you'll enjoy the comforts of a hotel, in the Swiss mountain village of Engelberg. There you will be fully taken care of, and a dinner will be waiting for you before and after the ride.

No race

During the trip, you are completely on your own. So bring enough provisions or just stop somewhere. Navigate by GPX. The Sidetrack E P I C is not a race: it is a battle against yourself. Everyone cycles at their own pace. In the evening, all participants have dinner at the hotel, and there is time to exchange stories.

Complete package

It should be clear: so this is definitely not a hit & run event. It is a four-day feast. Thursday is arrival day; on Friday it's cycling, on Saturday rest day, and Sunday you go home. The offer is pretty complete:

• Three nights stay at the Ski Lodge including a legendary breakfast on all days.
• Welcome dinner and finisher's feast.
• Safe luggage & bike storage (including bike rack and tools).
• Live state-of-the-art GPS Tracker; family and friends can follow you with automatic updates.
• Professional food and water bottles at the start.
• Exclusive GPX of the route including checkpoints.
• Free parking in front of the hotel (first come, first served).
• Non-cycling partners can join at a reduced rate.

Want to know more? Then check out the website!