Shades of Speed is a cycling marathon and ride festival in Bavaria’s Alpine foothills, created by Marcus Burghardt, a Tour de France stage winner. The event combines scenic rides, culinary experiences and a festival atmosphere, welcoming beginners, experienced cyclists, families and young riders. Its 13 marked routes range from 18 to 306 kilometres and include both road and gravel options, with distances suited to relaxed outings as well as demanding endurance challenges.

Road highlights include routes such as Die Hochries, Der Wendelstein and Das Monument, while gravel rides offer 56- and 94-kilometre options. A 14-kilometre children’s ride helps younger participants join in, and the Sunday routes pass lakes, valleys and panoramic viewpoints across the region. Along the way, riders can enjoy premium refreshments prepared by star chefs.

The event also features an after-party with a DJ, making it more than a sporting competition. Shades of Speed offers individual event registration, a festival pass and a team challenge, with its 2027 festival scheduled for July 23–25