Sölden becomes a global biking hotspot in June

Last updated on 11.03.2026

In 2026, the Bike Republic Sölden (BRS) is joining forces once again: following the start of the bike season on 04 June, the BRS Festival (18-21 June) will be the sporting highlight of early summer biking in Europe. The combination of a new jump line for the community, smart connecting trails without using lifts, the first pump track on the mountain, cleverly installed bike hubs and Swatch Nines makes the region the undisputed place to be for the international bike community.

© Ötztal Tourismus – Florian Knab

Bike Republic Sölden is rewriting its own history. To increase planning certainty and to take advantage of the stable mountain weather in early summer, the BRS Festival is moving from autumn to June. A fact that brings the world-class event even closer to the ultimate Summer Kickstart (04 June). This traditional opening and the international festival will thus merge into a multi-week biking highlight, accompanied by the opening of superb new lines and additional infrastructure.

Key part of a global event series

The Swatch Nines series connects the world’s most spectacular locations for unique sporting events: from Japan (Snow) and the USA (Surf & Skate) to the undisputed biking highlight in Tirol. This year, the setup in the 20,000 m² “Dirt District” fully integrates BMX for the very first time. The Public Sessions (18 & 20 June) bring the world’s best female and male slopestyle and freeride athletes straight to Ötztal, featuring a thrilling presentation in a show-like atmosphere:

  • Thursday, 18 June (Night Show): A magical spectacle under floodlights that takes action sports to a new level.
  • Saturday, 20 June (Public Day): Fans can witness the world’s elite up close in a choreographed session.

True festival feeling

Besides the spectacular tricks performed by world stars, a comprehensive program is scheduled. The large Expo Area at the base station of Gaislachkogl Gondola boasts the latest test bike fleets, parties, music acts and food stalls. Biking technique training sessions, kids’ workshops as well as exclusive ride-outs with top athletes promise plenty of activity and fresh knowhow. Another unique highlight for everyone is the BRS Rally (19 June). This iconic FUNduro competition is not about milliseconds, but about sharing memorable experiences and collecting visa stamps in the Bike Republic Sölden rally pass.

Infrastructure update: new connections & smart hubs

Just in time for the start of the season on 04 June, BRS will present splendid new features regarding the trail network. A long-held wish of the community is coming true thanks to the opening of the “Hupfar Line” covering over 1.6 km. The name says it all: “Hupfar” means “jumping” in Ötztal dialect and that’s exactly what this line has to offer. With perfectly shaped jump areas and generous landing zones, it provides the ideal playground for anyone looking to perfect their airtime. Special feature: professional athletes like Sam Hodgson and Veronique Sandler are contributing their expertise to the construction of the second section of the jump line, which will begin in May 2026. The “Hupfar Line” completes the huge offer with a top-notch trail for flying enthusiasts. The new “Drimmle Line” serves as a strategic cross-connection between the mountains: from “Gahe Line” you can now reach “Ohn Line” directly. This project, like the ski slope connection in winter, allows for flexible changing between the lines and trails of Gaislachkogl and Giggijoch. Huge advantage: bikers will no longer have to take the detour to the valley floor. A real benefit for the overall flow while reducing traffic in the village. Furthermore, the already existing red “Traien Trail” has been extended by a full 1.7 km to a total length of 2.3 km.

Warm-up on the mountain

Another new feature awaits all riders at the middle station of Gaislachkogl Gondola: a pump track that is over 100 meters long. It allows riders to prepare for the lines and trails directly on the mountain for the first time. It is the perfect warm-up spot to activate both balance and flow before hitting the trails. Additionally, the range of services for “bike & hike” fans will be expanded: bike hubs are parking stations on the mountain where high-quality sports equipment can be securely stored. “By building the Hupfar Line we are making a clear statement about the further development of the Bike Republic Sölden. We are very pleased to be able to present this infrastructure highlight right at the start of the season in combination with the festival,” explains Dominik Linser, Managing Director of Bike Republic Sölden.

Bike Republic Sölden – June highlights at a glance

  • Summer Kickstart: 04 Juni 2026 (Opening of Hupfar Line & Drimmle Line)
  • BRS Festival: 18 to 21 June 2026
    18 June: Swatch Nines Night Show
    19 June: BRS Rally (Iconic Team Competition)
    20 June: Swatch Nines Public Day & Expo Party
  • Infrastructure News: Drimmle Line (connecting trail), Hupfar Line (jump line), Bike Hubs (secure storage areas on the mountain)

More details: www.soelden.com
Pictures: HERE

CONTACT
Ötztal Tourismus
Anna Pircher
PR, Media & Influencer Manager
Achweg 5, A-6450 Sölden
T +43 57200 935
anna.pircher@oetztal.com – www.oetztal.com

Images for download