08.09.2026
Falling Leaves Lahti brings hundreds of riders to Nastola’s gravel roads
The Pajulahti Sports Institute in Nastola turns into the stage for Finnish gravel cycling this weekend, 12–13 September, as Falling Leaves Lahti returns. Some 600–800 riders, including entrants from abroad, are expected on the start line.
Saturday’s race doubles as a UCI qualifier for the 2026 Gravel World Championships and the 2027 UEC European Gravel Championships, set to be hosted in the Lahti region, a first for Finland. Riders can choose between a 100 km and a demanding 175 km route, with nearly 2,000 metres of climbing on roads that are more than 85% gravel. A 500-metre kids’ race also takes place on Saturday.
Sunday shifts to a more relaxed pace with the Nordic Gravel Series, open to everyone from first-timers to seasoned racers, with 60, 95 and 140 km routes through the Salpausselkä region’s fields, forests and lakeshores.
“Our goal is to get everyone interested in gravel cycling – from elite racers to those just discovering the sport,” says organiser Joonas Henttala to ESS.
“An event on the scale of the European Championships has never been held in Finland before,” Henttala adds. “From what I’ve heard and seen, riders across age groups are gearing up for it. It feels like a big deal, and it’s great that it’s already creating some buzz.”
The event builds directly on the Lahti region’s growing reputation as a gravel cycling destination ahead of the 2027 European Championships.
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Picture: Nordic Gravel Series
Source: ESS