Samsun Gran Fondo

Samsun will bring a Black Sea cycling weekend to life on May 16–17, 2026, as the Samsun Gran Fondo turns the waterfront into a two-day celebration of road riding—part race, part festival, and fully destination-ready. With a central EXPO hub at Çobanlı Pier, the event will blend registration, community energy, and a Sunday start-line moment that feels like the whole city is up early for the ride.

The routes are built for different goals. The 76 km Short Course is fast and accessible, featuring just 81 meters of elevation gain—and it will also host Tandem and Para-cycling categories, giving the weekend a more inclusive, community-forward spirit. The 102.31 km Long Course raises the challenge with 324 meters of climbing, offering a longer day in the saddle without losing that scenic, rideable rhythm. Saturday will set the tone with EXPO programming and a concert-style atmosphere, while Sunday delivers the main event—starts for the long and short courses, a finish window, and an awards celebration to close the weekend. Even if you’re not riding, you’ll still want to come along—because Samsun makes spectating feel easy, and the Black Sea shoreline turns every cheering moment into a mini-getaway.