The Lakelander Gravel Grinder, Ireland’s premier gravel cycling event, is set to return on March 20, 2027, this time nestled within the UNESCO-recognized Global Geopark of County Fermanagh. Cyclists from around the world will have the opportunity to explore some of Northern Ireland's most untouched wilderness as they navigate through seven protected heritage forests. The event offers four distinct routes catering to a variety of skill levels and endurance thresholds: Big Dog, Mongrel, Little Dog, and Werewolf. The Big Dog route stretches 100 kilometers with an elevation gain of up to 2,100 meters, making it the ultimate challenge for seasoned gravel cyclists. Meanwhile, the Mongrel covers 60 kilometers with a total climb of 1,200 meters, providing a formidable test through rough terrain. For those seeking something more manageable yet still thrilling, there's the Little Dog course at 50 kilometers and an elevation gain of 1,100 meters. Despite its name, this route is no joke; it packs in over 96% gravel with only minimal use of B-roads and tracks for a truly rugged experience. Adding to the allure is The Werewolf event on March 19th, which challenges participants to cover 32 kilometers under moonlight conditions. With a total elevation gain of 525 meters and 100% gravel terrain, this twilight ride offers an exclusive preview before the main event kicks off the next day. All routes wind through dense forest trails that showcase breathtaking views of Fermanagh's countryside. Cyclists will encounter varied terrains, from soft, sandy paths to rocky descents, ensuring a memorable and challenging experience for all participants. The Lakelander Gravel Grinder begins and concludes in Belcoo village, offering easy access via road networks: approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Belfast, 2 hours and 5 minutes from Dublin, 2 hours and 40 minutes from Galway City, and a journey of about 4 hours from Cork. For more information or to address any inquiries, visit the event website at www.lakelander.co.uk.
Races Offered
Big Dog - 100k
Mar 20, 2027
straighten
Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
211 days remaining
sell
£60.00
Little Dog – 50k
Mar 20, 2027
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
211 days remaining
sell
£55.00
Mongrel - 60k
Mar 20, 2027
straighten
Distance —
60K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
211 days remaining
sell
£60.00
Werewolf - 32k
Mar 20, 2027
straighten
Distance —
32K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
211 days remaining
sell
£25.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for March in County Fermanagh.
thermostatTemperature
3.6° / 9.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-0.2° / 5.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
4h 55m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.2 cm
air
Avg wind speed
13.9 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.8)
humidity_mid
Humidity
84.1%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:41
nightlight
Sunset
19:35
About County Fermanagh
Learn more about the host city, County Fermanagh.
County Fermanagh is one of the six historic counties of Northern Ireland, tucked away on the province's western corner. These counties have been abolished and since 2015 the area has been governed within the larger Fermanagh and Omagh District. It's rural and thinly populated, with a population of 61,805 in 2011. The main reason to visit is for its extensive lakelands, which are linked by navigable waterways.
