Heading SouthWest is an unsupported event, but the organiser provides several services to help riders navigate, track their progress and prepare for the challenge.
The following arrangements are confirmed for the 2027 edition.
GPS Tracking and Live Map
The organiser includes GPS tracker rental and a live tracking service provided by Follow My Challenge.
The service enables rider progress to be followed on a live map during the event.
GPS tracking is included in the participation fee.
Participants receive their trackers during event accreditation in Bragança on Saturday 19 June 2027.
Navigation and Route Documentation
The organiser provides participants with:
- GPX route files.
- An event manual.
- A roadbook.
- A brevet card.
These materials are included in the participation fee.
Riders are responsible for navigating their chosen route and should ensure their navigation equipment is suitable for long-distance, unsupported cycling.
Accreditation and Rider Pack Collection
Accreditation takes place in Bragança on 19 June 2027, the day before departure.
Riders collect their GPS tracker and participant pack during accreditation.
Attendance at accreditation and the full organiser briefing is mandatory.
The published programme lists accreditation during the afternoon and the briefing in the evening. Riders should check the final timetable because another section of the organiser’s guidelines gives conflicting times.
Accident Insurance
The organiser provides personal accident insurance in accordance with Portuguese law for amateur sporting events.
Cover is limited and relates to accidents during the event period, including specified treatment, repatriation, disability and death benefits.
The organiser states that its insurance does not cover:
- Damage to bicycles.
- Damage caused to third parties.
- Incidents occurring after leaving the designated route.
Riders are strongly encouraged to arrange their own cycling insurance. International participants are also advised to obtain travel insurance.
Mechanical Assistance and Resupply
There are no confirmed organiser-operated mechanical support stations or feed stations.
Participants must use commercially available services accessible to everyone for food, repairs and other requirements.
Mechanical assistance between participants and sharing supplies are permitted.
Private assistance from family, friends or support crews is not permitted under the unsupported rules.
Important Rider Information
The organiser’s guidelines contain the full participation conditions, including insurance exclusions, accreditation requirements and the unsupported riding rules.
Riders should review these before travelling.