KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo 2026 steps up a level – are you ready?
The longest distance yet, a brand-new route, and more exciting challenges than ever await you. Don’t miss the cycling event of the year!
The wait is over: registration for KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo 2026 is now open!
Created in memory of the 2022 Giro d’Italia Grande Partenza, the event returns on May 1, once again filling every curve of the Balaton Uplands, as Hungarian and international cyclists compete on three different distances. Alongside the familiar Granfondo and Mediofondo routes, a new tour-style option joins this year’s challenges: the Piccolofondo.
The 2026 KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo is bigger, steeper, and more exciting than ever, with redesigned routes, updated rules, spectacular programs, and the usual professional organisation awaiting every participant.
If you want to be at the starting line of one of Hungary’s largest road cycling events, now is the time to secure your spot.
Who is the KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo for?
For everyone who loves cycling – performance-focused riders testing their limits on the Granfondo, sporty hobby cyclists looking for the dynamic challenge of the Mediofondo, or enthusiastic amateurs who want to explore the Balaton Uplands as an experience on the safe, tour-style Piccolofondo route.
The youngest won’t be left out either: the free Minifondo children’s race opens the world of cycling to them with a skills course and playful challenges.
The Balatonfondo is for those who love movement, community and nature – and who want to be part of one great, pulsating cycling experience on May 1.
Three distances, three types of experience – choose your challenge!
As in previous years, in 2026 participants can decide during the ride which route they will complete. Those who reach the checkpoint within the time limit – adjusted based on community feedback – may choose either the more demanding Granfondo or opt for the Mediofondo and enjoy an earlier sip of an ice-cold refreshment.
Piccolofondo – Experience, safety, Balaton Uplands
A tour-style, experience-focused route entirely on cycle paths, accompanied by guides and civil guards.
- Distance: approx. 54.5 km
- Elevation gain: 380 m
- Timing: none – the landscape and atmosphere take centre stage
Ideal for those who want to enjoy the Balatonfondo vibe in a calmer, safer environment or are still building endurance for longer distances.
I register for the Piccolofondo.
Mediofondo – Fast-paced, sporty challenge
For regularly training cyclists who want to test themselves on a structured, high-tempo road route.
- Distance: approx. 59.2 km
- Elevation gain: 623 m
- Time limit: 3 h 30 min
- Timing: chip-based with live results
Perfect for pushing beyond your comfort zone without taking on the full Granfondo challenge. Medium distance, tight pace, scenic sections – a true “sport cyclist” feel.
I register for the Mediofondo.
Granfondo – The biggest challenge, the ultimate experience
The 2026 Granfondo returns with a redesigned route: longer, tougher and more spectacular than ever.
- Distance: 177 km
- Elevation gain: 1716 m
- Time limit: 7 h 30 min
- Timing: chip-based, live results, split times and finish photo
For those who love real challenges: climbs, panoramas and endurance trials across the most beautiful and demanding sections of the Balaton Uplands.
A big day for little cyclists – Minifondo Children’s Race
One of the most popular programmes of the event, where young riders can test themselves on a fully closed, safe track with playful challenges and huge encouragement. For ages 5–14, with the aim of fostering a love of cycling – and even a balance bike heat for the very youngest, including those not yet walking.
Event information – Everything about 2026 registration
Start: May 1, 2026 at 08:00
Location: Balatonfüred, Vitorlás Square
New tiered registration system with limited slots and extra options.
Registration fees 2026
- Loyal Bird: 17,000 HUF – 250 people – or until Dec 31
- Early Bird: 19,000 HUF – 300 people – or until Jan 31
- Phase 1: 21,000 HUF – 200 people
- Phase 2: 23,000 HUF – 200 people
- Phase 3: 25,000 HUF – 300 people
- Phase 4: 27,000 HUF – 300 people – until Apr 29
On-site: 30,000 HUF – 200 people – Apr 30–May 1
VIP package: 50,000 HUF – 50 people includes fast-track bib pickup, VIP start zone, limited KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo gift and standard package.
Start blocks
- 1st block – 500 people (first 500 registrants)
- 2nd block – 500 people (next 500)
- 3rd block – 500+ people (all others)
Extras:
- Start block upgrade: +5,000 HUF (one block), +10,000 HUF (two blocks)
- Flexi option – transfer or name change: 6,000 HUF
Don’t miss one of Hungary’s greatest road cycling experiences!
Choose your distance, register in time, and join the 2026 Balatonfondo peloton on May 1 in Balatonfüred.