La Reine is starting today, the 18th to 20 June, and Gstaad will once again become the meeting point for international women’s cycling. What began in 2021 with around 120 participants has grown in just a few years into the world’s largest women’s cycling event. Around 500 riders are expected to take part in this year’s edition of La Reine.

For the first time, the event will be held as a three-day festival.

The programme begins on today, Thursday, with workshops and a social ride around Gstaad, offering participants a chance to explore the region together. On Friday, another first awaits with a prologue stage to Alp Vordereggli. Riders will set off individually from Kapälliplatz from 10am onwards. Spectators are warmly invited to line the red carpet along the Promenade and cheer the cyclists on as they begin their climb.

The highlight of the weekend remains Saturday’s Gran Fondo. From 7.30am, a peloton of 500 women will roll through the Promenade before heading over the Mittelberg into the Jaun Valley. The route continues through the Gruyère region, from Montbovon along the scenic mountain road to Lac de l’Hongrin, before returning via Les Mosses and Saanen to the finish on the village square.

A limited number of entries are still available. La Reine is open to women of all ages and abilities, regardless of racing experience. While the event attracts ambitious cyclists, it is equally aimed at recreational riders and anyone who enjoys road cycling. The organisers are particularly looking forward to welcoming many local participants from the Saanenland and the surrounding region to the start line in Gstaad.

Read more about the route here