THE INTERCONTINENTAL
GRAVEL CHALLENGE
THE IDEA
El Mito is an intercontinental gravel challenge, set in the place where Europe and Africa meet.
A journey from north to south across the Strait of Gibraltar, connecting Ronda — one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, crowned by its iconic Puente Nuevo — to Tétouan, the cultural capital of northern Morocco, home to one of the best-preserved and most authentic medinas in the Maghreb.
Between these two points on the map lie three stages, hundreds of kilometres, mountain passes, villages, and a ferry crossing that literally connects two worlds.
The purpose of El Mito is to unite — to create bonds between the cultures and landscapes of the Strait of Gibraltar through cycling, offering participants an unforgettable adventure and experience.
A tribute to classic and adventurous cycling, between two continents.
TERRITORY
El Mito takes place in the Strait of Gibraltar, home to the Intercontinental Mediterranean Biosphere Reserve — the only one of its kind in the world spanning two continents.
Throughout the route, riders will traverse the surroundings of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, Los Alcornocales Natural Park, and El Estrecho Natural Park in Spain, as well as the landscapes of Jbel Musa and the Fasml Jaar mountain range in the surroundings of Tétouan, in Morocco.
For all of us who make up El Mito, born on both shores of the Strait, it is both a source of pride and a great responsibility to tell the story of our land through cycling.
As people rooted in this corner of the map, we believe it is our duty to share it in a sustainable and respectful way, honouring the natural and cultural heritage that makes this place truly unique in the world.
FAQS
3 STAGES
- Stage 1 · Ronda → Tarifa 195 km +3,200 m
- Stage 2 · Tangier → Tétouan 125 km +2,200 m
- Stage 3 · Tétouan → Ronda 200 km +2,500 m
THE CROSSING
Cut-off in the Port of Tarifa
El Mito follows the rhythm of the Strait. Riders must reach the Port of Tarifa in time to board the last ferry of the day. Those who miss it will not continue to the African stage of the adventure.
THE ROUTE
Official track
The official GPX track, along with the Rider’s Guide, will be shared two weeks before the event.
THE SPIRIT
True self-supported adventure
No aid stations.
No course markings.
No external assistance.
El Mito is not a race against others.
It is a personal challenge, where the only reward is completing an intercontinental journey by bike.
ACCOMMODATION
Participants are responsible for organizing their own accommodation. For those who wish, the organization will offer accommodation booking options during the registration process for the event nights in Tánger and Tetouan.
FERRIES
Crossing the Strait is part of the journey
Participants are responsible for purchasing their own ferry tickets, both for the outward crossing during Stage 1 (Tarifa → Tangier) and for the return crossing during Stage 3 (Ceuta → Algeciras).
Depending on their arrival times, riders may choose between any of the ferry companies operating these routes.
INSURANCE
Each rider must hold valid sports insurance covering accidents, rescue and medical assistance throughout the route. This insurance must be in the participant’s name and can be either a federation license or a personal policy. Proof of insurance will be required at check-in in order to start the event.
Sponsor oficial
Organize
