On the last weekend of June, Mellau in the Bregenzerwald will once again become the center for gravel bikers: into the wold is entering its fourth round. And of course, it's all about fantastic gravel rides combined with a high enjoyment factor. The already diverse supporting program has been expanded even further, and the ticket contingent has been increased. Nevertheless, around two-thirds of the tickets have already been snapped up.
The landscape in the Bregenzerwald is inherently very inviting for gravel bikers. The fantastic paths lead to the most remote corners of the region, where you'll find steep ramps and gentle hills - and plenty of untouched nature. But those who visit the gravel bike festival into the wold will discover: There is much more to explore here.
“Our idea from the beginning was that at into the wold one could experience the Bregenzerwald in all its facets. We remain true to this idea in the fourth year as well,” explains Matthias Köb, a native of the Bregenzerwald and one of the organizers, together with Harald Triebnig and Philipp Altenberger.
An essential part of the program, therefore, includes excellent food from local top chefs, themed rides, or a discussion round on the topic of “Design.”
Tired legs. Full bellies. Open hearts.
The "into the wild" mottoOf course, the focus is on cycling
“We have been asked – in a positive sense – if we can really call ourselves a Gravelbike Festival because of the diverse supporting program,” Triebnig explains. “But yes, of course, cycling is the focus.”
The highlight of into the wold is the big ride on Saturday. On three routes – approximately 55, 75, and 100 kilometers – it goes through the Bregenzerwald, with about 50% gravel content. And anyone who knows the Bregenzerwald knows that it's rarely flat. There are 1,200, 1,800, and 3,000 meters of elevation waiting.
An essential part of the concept is also the catering: Instead of energy bars and gels, there are the finest dishes from top chefs (Jodok Dietrich and Wolfgang Mätzler) from the region. Following the ride, the relaxed part of the day begins at the Gravel Café in the village square of Mellau. The best food (prepared by award-winning chef Jonathan Burger) is naturally also served there, before the day's program transitions into the night party.
Friday Theme Rides
Friday at into the wild - after a relaxed yoga session - is dedicated to theme rides. These are a combination of a supporting program and cycling: Participants can choose between a ride to the alpine pasture including insights into cheese production, a ride to the Kobelache with a canyoning tour, a trip to the coffee roastery with a subsequent talk and insights into the world of bike partner Specialized, and a bike technique training session.
A bit later, the (from a sporting perspective) most leisurely round begins. With master builder Jürgen Haller and architect Bernd Frick, the craftsmanship and architecture outing provides insights into the famous architectural culture of the Bregenzerwald.
Magic is even performed!
The kickoff on Thursday evening will start as usual with the Sprint Challenge at the Pump Track. After that, for the first time, there will be night swimming (including a mobile wood-fired sauna!) at the exclusively opened outdoor pool in Mellau.
Also special is the performance by illusionist Philipp Oberlohr on Friday evening. "We wanted to bring Philipp to into the wold last year, but it didn't work out due to scheduling reasons. Now we are even more excited about him, because the show is not only incredibly impressive, but also really very funny." So it's definitely something to look forward to.
To round off the festival on Sunday, there is the hangover breakfast ride. At a leisurely pace, everyone heads together for breakfast at the Doren campsite. And if the weather cooperates, you can take a final plunge into the Bregenzerache to really immerse yourself in the Bregenz Forest.
Tickets and Accommodation
All information, the entire program, as well as tickets are available at www.intothewold.at, but beware! The event is already almost sold out! Anyone who doesn't want to miss the party should quickly secure a spot - it's definitely worth it.
More information and booking at www.intothewold.at
Of course, the focus is on cycling |
Friday Theme Rides |
Magic is even performed! |
Tickets and Accommodation |
Links |