What to expect? 

280 kilometers of gravel paths, forest trails and sandy sectors to be explored over three unforgettable days. 

This years route will link the Dutch cities of Nijmegen and Maastricht, where a well earned party awaits all participants. Along the way we will also cross the border into both Germany and Belgium meaning three countries in just one ride!

This is a self supported adventure giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace along the recommended route to reach our destination. 

We’ll stop off as a group at two campsites along the way where we will camp, connect and trade stories under a sky full of stars.

Participation in The Weekender is for all women looking for adventure, togetherness and fun on a bike! To maintain a welcoming and communal atmosphere we’re limiting the group to 50 riders. 

For more information and inspiration, have a look at our previous editions in 2023 and 2024. 

Practical info:

Date: 20-22 June

Start: Nijmegen 

Finish: Maastricht

Number of places: 50

Cost: 75 euro. This includes 2 nights at a campsite, starter drinks and arrival party in Maastricht. 

We understand that everyone’s financial situation is different, and we want The Weekender to be as accessible as possible. If the entry cost is a barrier to your participation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at ask@iris.cc—we have a number of funded spots available and will do our best to help you join the ride.

Sign up: Registrations are now open and close at 23:59 CET on April 28th. You can apply through this link at Atleta.cc

And then? 

Applications for The Weekender are to be submitted via Atleta.

Once the application window closes on April 28th, we’ll randomly select names from the pool of applicants. Successful applicants will be notified by email before May 1st, 2025.

If your name is drawn, you’ll receive an email with an invoice for the entry fee. Once payment is completed, your spot on The Weekender will be officially confirmed.

If you don’t receive an email, it means your name wasn’t drawn this time—but don’t worry, you’ll automatically be placed on the waiting list and notified if a spot becomes available.

Video impression of the 2024 Weekender

Preparation

Leading up to the event we will host a webinar with more practical information about the event, the route and bikepacking trips and tricks. The final route will be shared the week before the event so you can download it in advance of The Weekender.

FAQs: 

• Is it a race? Nope, it’s a non-competitive event. You are encouraged to ride at your own pace.
• Do people ride together? Usually! Groups often form out of different paces and preferences. You can ride at your own pace and find a group to share the ride with for that day.
• Where will I stay? We have arranged the campsites for you, but you need to bring your own tent and sleeping gear.
• What bike do I need? A bike on which you can mount bikepacking bags, since you need to carry your own stuff. There will be some gravel sections so a bike with wider tires is to be advised. A gravel bike or mountainbike is perfect!
• What do I need to bring? You need to bring your own tent, sleeping gear, cutlery and anything else you need to survive 3 days and 2 nights on a bikepacking adventure.
• How much experience do I need? Check out the route to see if you’re comfortable with it. We want to make this accessible for all, so you can always take short cuts or detours whenever you want to. A good general level of fitness and some experience is essential, but you don’t need to have previous bikepacking experience.
• What happens if I have bike issues? Riders are always happy to help each other out, exchange skills, and swap snacks while fixing bikes. You can also head to bike repair shops and buy replacement parts in larger towns.
• How inclusive is the term ‘women’? We welcome all women, no matter their background, including transgender women. If you identify as a woman and you love riding, you belong on our adventure!

Participants agree Terms and conditions