2023: EKOI STONE CIRCLE

Race the summer solstice on this epic gravel adventure through druid Britain.

Starting at dawn from the historic hilltop fort of Old Sarum, the route will pass the iconic landmark of Stonehenge as you embark on this monumental adventure. The challenge … to race the solstice sun and finish before night falls.

The Ekoi Stone Circle brings the fast-rolling feel of iconic US gravel races to the UK in this truly unique 215km event.  A 135km route option is also available, where ebikes are also welcome to take part.

Expect a variety of terrain over the gruelling course. As well as the distraction of the stunning views and historical landmarks, there will be plenty of opportunities to stick it in the big ring and find a fast rolling group to make the kilometres fly by. 

Starting and finishing on the edge of Salisbury with free parking on-site, direct rail links from London and other cities, plus close proximity to Heathrow and Gatwick, it’s easily accessible for both UK and international riders.

215KM

Leaving at dawn from the historic hilltop fort of Old Sarum, you’ll be riding in the tracks of the Ancients as you head towards Salisbury Plain and past Stonehenge. You’ll then be on the iconic fast rolling gravel of the Imber Range perimeter path where, if you can get into a good group, you can get your head down and tick off some significant early kilometres.

The feel of the ride then changes as you leave the wide open plains and enter the ancient woodland of Longleat Forest. Expect some singletrack, punchy climbs and watch out for the lions! This section takes you about 110km into the ride and to King Alfred’s Tower.

You’ve then got some respite from the gravel with 25km of quiet country lanes that take you deep into Dorset and the Blackmore Vale. A disused railway line gets you back off the tarmac but will give your legs a break from the continuous undulations.

Make the most of these easy kilometres as, heading into the final 50km, you’ve got some significant climbing to do as it’s up onto the chalk uplands of the West Wiltshire Downs and past the Fovant Badges.

With the sun setting on the longest day, you’ll descend off the Downs and back to Old Sarum for a well earned beer.
135KM
The 135km route follows the same route as the 215km route until King Alfred’s Tower but then heads due east up onto stunning chalk uplands and ridges before dropping you back into Old Sarum. You may be riding fewer kilometres but, with close to 1800m of climbing, it’s no easy option.

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23 JUNE. Expo, Sign On and Pizza Party

13:00-21:00: Gravel Expo at the spectacular English Heritage site of Old Sarum.

All supporting partners will join us, showcasing their products and chatting all things gravel. Plus they’ll be food and drink stands, so even if you’re not riding come along and join the fun.

13:00-21:00: Sign On open, where all riders will need to collect entry packs

18:00-19:00: Pizza Party 
 

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24 JUNE. Ride

05:00-05:30: Sign On open

05:00-06:00: Start line open 

21:30: Finish line closes