🚴‍♂️ Belgium Cycling Tour – 15 Nights of Cycling, Culture, Cuisine & Camaraderie 🇧🇪

Pedal through Belgium’s most iconic landscapes—from cobbled classics to rolling Ardennes climbs—on a 15-night journey blending world-class cycling with rich history, gourmet cuisine, local beer, and unforgettable company. Discover medieval cities, taste the finest chocolates and brews, and conquer legendary routes like the Ghent Wevelgem, Tour of Flanders, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, La Flèche Wallonne and Amstel Gold. This is more than a tour—it’s the ultimate Belgian cycling experience.

 

Dates:

23rd May 2026 to 7th June 2026

Rider Types on this Trip:

What's Included:

  • 15 nights accommodation twin share at a selection of curated hotels

  • All Breakfasts

  • 9 Dinners

  • All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip

  • 2 Expert ride guides

  • Min 2 daily group ride options

  • Experienced mechanic

  • Team car support roaming all full length rides

What's Not Included:

  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations

  • Accommodation before and after the trip

  • Personal items purchased during the trip

  • Additional hotel expenses

  • Travel and personal insurance

  • Lunches & drinks

  • 6 dinners are not included. We invite you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

 

Included Experiences

Guided rides with support vehicle and mechanical backup

Entry to key landmarks (Citadel of Dinant, Château Féodal, Gravensteen)

Belgian Beer Tour: Leffe (Dinant), Roman Brewery (Oudenaarde), and Domus (Leuven)

Chocolate Tour: Choco-Story (Bruges) and chocolate workshop (Leuven)

What to See Off the Bike

Medieval castles & riverside towns

UNESCO sites in Bruges and Ghent

Natural parks and caves (La Roche, Dinant)

Spa thermal baths and racing heritage

Cultural hubs: Maastricht & Leuven’s historic quarters

 

Day 1 – Arrival in Ghent (Saturday, 23 May 2026)

Welcome to Belgium and the start of an unforgettable cycling adventure! Upon arrival in Ghent, you’ll check in to the elegant Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof, your home for the next two nights. Take time to unwind, explore the cobbled streets of this medieval city, or enjoy a coffee by the scenic Graslei canal.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome reception and dinner, where you’ll meet your fellow riders, tour guides, and support crew. Over local specialties and your first taste of Belgian beer, we’ll walk you through the journey ahead—routes, highlights, and daily logistics. It’s the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation before we clip in and roll out tomorrow.

Let the Belgium Cycling Tour 2026 begin! 🇧🇪🚴‍♀️🍻

What Else?

  • Welcome dinner & Belgian beer tasting

  • Restaurant: De Graslei – riverside Flemish cuisine with excellent beer pairings

 

Today's Ride

  • Warm-up ride through the Flemish countryside

  • Ghent Loop Ride

  • Distance 51km

  • Elevation 62m

What Else?

  • Optional visit: Gravensteen Castle & Ghent Altarpiece at St. Bavo's Cathedral

  • Free evening in Ghent

Day 2 – Ghent Loop Ride (Sunday, 24 May 2026)

We start the tour with a gentle warm-up ride to shake out the legs and get acquainted with the local terrain. Today’s loop takes us through the flat, green Flemish countryside that surrounds Ghent, offering quiet farm roads, canal paths, and charming villages that highlight the beauty of East Flanders.

This 51km ride with just 62m of elevation is the perfect introduction—relaxed, scenic, and social. Our support vehicle and guides will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride as we ease into the rhythm of the tour.

Back in Ghent, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore the city’s rich culture. Visit the Gravensteen Castle, stroll along the Graslei, or view the Van Eyck masterpiece at St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

In the evening, dine at your leisure or join your guides at one of their favorite local bistros for good food and great conversation.

Tomorrow, the road to Bruges awaits.

 

Today's Rides

What Else?

Day 3 – Ride Ghent to Bruges (Monday, 25 May 2026)

Today we leave the vibrant streets of Ghent behind as we ride westward toward the fairytale charm of Bruges, one of Belgium’s most iconic medieval cities.

Our 100km route with 157m of elevation takes us through peaceful Flemish backroads, tree-lined canal paths, and classic Belgian farmland. It’s a scenic and mostly flat ride, allowing you to settle into your bike and enjoy the rural beauty of East and West Flanders.

Along the way, we’ll stop for coffee and pastries in a local village square and enjoy a relaxed lunch en route. The group will arrive in Bruges by mid-afternoon, with plenty of time to unwind or begin exploring.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the cobbled streets, a peaceful canal-side drink, or dinner at one of Bruges’ renowned restaurants.

Welcome to Bruges—your postcard-perfect home for the next two nights.

 

Today's Ride

  • Coastal ride to De Haan and return via Damme

  • Bruges Loop Ride

  • Distance 60km

  • Elevation 51m

What Else?

  • 2nd night at Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges

  • Optional off-bike: Canal boat tour & Choco-Story chocolate museum

  • Restaurant: Den Dyver – fine dining with beer-infused menu

Day 4 – Bruges Loop Ride (Tuesday, 26 May 2026)

After a restful night in the heart of Bruges, we enjoy a 60km loop ride with 51m of elevation, heading north toward the windswept Belgian coast and the charming Belle Époque seaside town of De Haan.

The route is relaxed and scenic, following a mix of canal paths, polder roads, and historic dike routes. You’ll pass through the picturesque town of Damme, a favorite among local artists and cyclists, before reaching the North Sea coast. If weather permits, there’s time to enjoy a seaside coffee or quick stroll on the promenade before looping back to Bruges.

Back in town, the afternoon is yours to explore. Take a boat tour along Bruges’ medieval canals, visit the Choco-Story chocolate museum, or simply lose yourself in the winding alleyways lined with lace shops, cafés, and world-class chocolate boutiques.

Tonight is the perfect evening to experience Bruges by night, when the day tourists have left and the city lights up with magic.

Tomorrow, we take on the first major challenge—riding into the hills of Flanders.

 

Today's Rides

What Else?

Day 5 – Ride Bruges to Oudenaarde (Wednesday, 27 May 2026)

Today we shift gears—literally and figuratively—as we leave the flatlands behind and head into the legendary cycling country of Flanders. Our 163km ride with 789m of elevation retraces the iconic climbs of Gent–Wevelgem, one of Belgium’s most cherished spring classics.

Expect a varied day of riding as we tackle the Scherpenberg, Baneberg, Monteberg, and the feared Kemmelberg, with its steep cobbled pitches and panoramic ridge views. These short but punchy climbs are a rite of passage in Flemish cycling and provide a thrilling contrast to the flatter days so far.

We’ll fuel up with a roadside lunch and take plenty of breaks to regroup and enjoy the countryside. Our destination is Oudenaarde, a town steeped in cycling history and home to the Tour of Flanders museum.

Once checked in at our comfortable hotel, you’ll have time to relax or take a stroll along the Scheldt River.

You’ve now earned your stripes on the cobbles—tomorrow, we take on even more with the full Tour of Flanders experience.

 

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • 2nd night at Steenhuyse Hotel and Restaurant

  • Afternoon beer tasting at Brouwerij Roman

  • Restaurant: Brasserie Louis – casual and hearty post-ride meals and beer pairings hit the spot after a day on the cobbles.

Day 6 – Oudenaarde Loop Ride (Thursday, 28 May 2026)

This is Flanders Day—a true pilgrimage ride for any cycling enthusiast. Today’s 154km loop with 1,818m of elevation takes you over the most iconic climbs and cobbled sectors of the Tour of Flanders (Ronde van Vlaanderen).

You’ll test your legs on the legendary Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg, and the brutal Koppenberg, along with other famed hellingen like the Taaienberg, Berendries, and Molenberg. The terrain is steep, winding, and unrelenting—but also incredibly rewarding.

We’ll ride at a manageable pace with support, regroup points, and plenty of encouragement. Whether you’re chasing a KOM or just soaking in the scenery, today is about experiencing the soul of Belgian cycling.

After a heroic effort, we return to Oudenaarde with time to visit the Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen museum, where you can relive the great moments of Flanders’ cycling heritage.

In the evening, we toast our efforts with a private beer tasting at Brouwerij Roman, one of Belgium’s oldest family-run breweries.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey south into the green heart of Wallonia.

 

Today's Ride

  • Rolling countryside and riverside approach to Dinant

  • Oudenaarde to Dinant

  • Distance 156km

  • Elevation 1197m

What Else?

  • Check-in at Hotel ?????

  • Visit the Citadel or take a Meuse river cruise

  • Restaurant: Le Café Leffe - featuring riverside views and local specialties—paired, of course, with a refreshing Leffe beer brewed in its birthplace.

Day 7 – Ride Oudenaarde to Dinant (Friday, 29 May 2026)

Today we transition from the Flemish lowlands to the Walloon hills, leaving behind cobbled bergs for the lush valleys and forests of southern Belgium. Our ride from Oudenaarde to Dinant covers 156km with 1,197m of elevation, offering rolling terrain, river crossings, and tranquil countryside.

The route winds through the Pays des Collines, a lesser-known but stunningly scenic region. Expect quiet roads, farmlands, and small villages as we make our way into the French-speaking part of Belgium. As the terrain shifts, so does the architecture and culture—this is where Wallonia truly begins.

We’ll stop for lunch en route and gradually follow the Meuse River into Dinant, one of Belgium’s most picturesque riverside towns, framed by towering cliffs and crowned by its iconic citadel.

Once settled into our hotel, take time to explore the charming promenade, visit the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, or ride the cable car up to the Citadel of Dinant for panoramic views.

Tomorrow, we ride deeper into Wallonia and toward the Ardennes climbs that await. 

 

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • Check-in at Floréal La Roche-en-Ardenne

  • Off-bike: Explore the ruins of Château Féodal

  • Restaurant: Le Clos René, known for seasonal Ardennes dishes and a great selection of regional beers and wines.

Day 8 – Ride Dinant to La Roche-en-Ardenne (Saturday, 30 May 2026)

Welcome to the Ardennes proper—today’s ride is a challenging and scenic leg inspired by La Flèche Wallonne, one of the great Walloon Classics. We cover 113km with a punchy 1,243m of climbing, winding through dense forests, remote valleys, and quiet hilltop villages.

The route begins by tracing the upper Meuse before climbing into the heart of the Ardennes. Expect shorter but steeper climbs today, with gradients that will test your legs but reward you with stunning views and peaceful, traffic-free roads.

We’ll pass through deeply wooded areas and classic Walloon hamlets, stopping for lunch along the way in a cozy village café. As you ride, keep an eye out for wild boar signs and WWII memorials—this region is steeped in both natural beauty and history.

By afternoon, we descend into the fairytale setting of La Roche-en-Ardenne, nestled along the River Ourthe and overlooked by the ruins of a medieval castle.

Take some time to explore the town, grab a local beer, or walk up to the Château Féodal for sunset views.

Rest well—tomorrow brings some of the biggest climbing of the tour.

 

Day 9 – Ride La Roche-en-Ardenne to Spa (Sunday, 31 May 2026)

Today’s stage is a true Ardennes classic, following in the tracks of Liège–Bastogne–Liège—one of cycling’s oldest and toughest Monuments. This 85km ride might seem short on paper, but don’t be fooled: with 1,811m of elevation, it’s one of the most demanding days of the tour.

We leave La Roche with a steady climb, quickly entering remote and wild terrain. The climbs today are longer and more sustained, with gradients hovering between 6–11%, often hidden in thick pine forests and rolling farmland. Expect names like Haute-Levée, Mont-le-Soie, and other sections that have challenged the pros for generations.

Despite the elevation, this is one of the most rewarding days—quiet roads, wide views over valleys, and the sense of riding through Belgium’s untamed heart.

We’ll stop for a well-earned lunch mid-ride and continue into the elegant spa town of Spa, long famous for its healing springs and motorsport heritage.

Once in town, relax at the hotel, unwind at the Thermes de Spa if you wish, or join a short evening walk through the historic gardens and old-world streets.

Tomorrow’s loop ride lets you tackle the most legendary climbs of L-B-L. Time to rest up and get ready!

Today's Ride

What Else?

  • Check-in at Radisson Blu Palace Hotel Spa

  • Evening in Spa: thermal baths or town promenade

  • Restaurant: L’Art de Vivre – refined regional cuisine in a peaceful setting, perfect after a mountain day in the Ardennes.

 

Day 10 – Spa Loop Ride (Monday, 1 June 2026)

Today is the Queen Stage of the tour—a full immersion in the legendary climbs and twisting roads of Liège–Bastogne–Liège. Our 123km loop features an epic 1,972m of elevation, taking in both the opening climbs and final decisive sections of the famed race.

We’ll begin with a steady warm-up out of Spa before hitting the Col du Rosier, a long, forested climb that tests both legs and rhythm. From there, the roads undulate relentlessly, as we tackle the Côte de Desnié, Haute-Levée, and the iconic Côte de La Redoute—a narrow, punchy ascent that has broken many pro dreams.

Further along, we’ll hit the Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons, known as the launchpad for race-winning attacks. The gradients are sharp, the descents fast, and the roads nearly car-free. It’s a day for strong legs and steady pacing—but with a support van, regular feed stops, and plenty of encouragement, you’ll ride it like a classic.

We’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch mid-ride and return to Spa in the afternoon for some well-earned recovery.

Spend your evening however you choose: take a dip in the Thermes de Spa, enjoy a local Trappist beer, or simply stroll the elegant esplanades of this historic town.

You’ve now conquered one of Europe’s great climbing challenges—tomorrow, we continue the Ardennes journey toward the Mur de Huy.

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • Free Evening in Spa

 

Day 11 – Ride Spa to Huy (Tuesday, 2 June 2026)

Today we take on the finale of La Flèche Wallonne, one of the most dramatic and punishing one-day races on the calendar. Our ride from Spa to Huy spans 115km with 1,361m of elevation, including the infamous Mur de Huy—a brutally steep wall and the day’s defining feature.

The route rolls out of Spa with a series of gradual climbs through the forests and farms of eastern Wallonia. We’ll pass through quiet villages and historic battlefields as we trace the route of the pros, all leading up to the legendary Mur itself.

At 1.3km long with gradients reaching over 20%, the Mur de Huy doesn’t just challenge the legs—it demands heart. But don’t worry: whether you attack it or spin it out, the satisfaction of reaching the top is unforgettable.

After conquering the climb, we’ll roll gently down into the center of Huy, a riverside town with charm and character to spare. Enjoy a cool-down coffee or beer at one of the cafés along the Meuse and take in the views of the climb you just conquered.

Spend the evening relaxing along the water or visit the Fort of Huy, perched dramatically over the river.

Tomorrow, we cross borders as we ride into the Netherlands and the hills of Limburg.

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • Check-in at Hotel ?????

  • Evening: sunset walk to the Fort of Huy

  • Restaurant: Les Cours, a local gem offering contemporary Belgian dishes in a cozy riverside setting.

 

Day 12 – Ride Huy to Maastricht (Wednesday, 3 June 2026)

Today we bid farewell to Wallonia and head north into the Dutch province of Limburg, arriving in the lively and historic city of Maastricht. The ride covers 85km with 849m of elevation, offering a gentler recovery day after the recent Ardennes climbs—though there are still some rolling hills to keep the legs warm.

We’ll follow the beautiful Meuse River valley, weaving through sleepy river towns and open farmland. As we cross the border into the Netherlands, you’ll notice the landscape and architecture begin to shift—brick farmhouses, windmills, and neatly kept villages welcome us into Dutch cycling country.

Maastricht is a cultural gem: cobbled streets, Roman ruins, riverside cafés, and a buzzing food scene all await. After checking in at our hotel, you’ll have time to relax or explore the compact and walkable city center.

Be sure to take in sights like the Vrijthof square, the striking St. Servatius Basilica, or even the quirky bookshop inside a gothic church (Boekhandel Dominicanen).

You’ve earned a restful evening—tomorrow, we take on the climbs of the Amstel Gold Race.

Today's Ride

  • Cross into the Netherlands through scenic Meuse valley

  • Huy to Maastricht

  • Distance 85km

  • Elevation 849m

What Else?

  • Check-in at Crowne Plaza Maastricht

  • Restaurant: Onglet – a trendy bistro known for bold flavors and Belgian-Dutch fusion dishes, with a top-notch wine and beer list.

 

Day 13 – Maastricht Loop Ride (Thursday, 4 June 2026)

Get ready for a true Dutch cycling classic! Today’s 106km loop ride with 1,240m of elevation explores the iconic climbs and rolling countryside of the Amstel Gold Race, the Netherlands’ most prestigious one-day event.

Despite the country’s flat reputation, Limburg offers a surprising number of short, punchy climbs. We’ll ride several of the race’s key ascents, including the Bemelerberg, Loorberg, and the Cauberg—the famed finishing climb of Amstel Gold and a key moment in several World Championships.

The ride features tight corners, narrow farm roads, and fast descents, all with excellent surfaces and sweeping views of orchards and vineyards. This is Dutch cycling at its finest—rhythmic, scenic, and full of character.

We’ll stop for a well-earned coffee and traditional vlaai (fruit tart) at a local bakery mid-ride, and return to Maastricht by early afternoon. There’s plenty of time to relax or explore more of the city’s cultural charm, including art galleries, boutique shops, or a sunset drink on the banks of the Maas.

Rest well—tomorrow we return to Belgium for the final leg of your journey.

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • 2nd night at Crowne Plaza Maastricht

  • Afternoon: Explore Maastricht's historic center or Bonnefanten Museum

  • Free evening in Maastricht

 

Day 14 – Ride Maastricht to Leuven (Friday, 5 June 2026)

Today marks the final transition ride of the tour as we leave the Dutch hills behind and journey back into Belgium, ending in the vibrant university city of Leuven. This 88km ride with 578m of elevation offers a more relaxed profile—perfect for reflecting on the journey while still enjoying a scenic and satisfying day on the bike.

We’ll roll out of Maastricht with a gentle descent before crossing the border into Flemish Brabant, Belgium’s central region known for its patchwork of fields, woodlands, and peaceful rural roads. The ride includes a few gentle climbs and plenty of quiet lanes, with a coffee stop in a local village to keep us fueled.

Arriving in Leuven, you’ll quickly sense the youthful energy of this medieval town—home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and the world-famous Stella Artois brewery. After check-in, enjoy time to explore the Old Market Square (Oude Markt), known as the “longest bar in the world,” or visit the striking Gothic Town Hall.

In the evening, we celebrate the journey with a farewell chocolate workshop and a relaxed final group dinner.

Tomorrow, we cap off our tour with a final loop ride in the hills of Leuven.

Today's Ride

  • Journey back into Flanders through quiet towns and rolling terrain

  • Maastricht to Leuven

  • Distance 88km

  • Elevation 578m

What Else?

 

Day 15 – Leuven Loop Ride (Saturday, 6 June 2026)

Your final ride of the tour is a celebration of everything you’ve accomplished—an enjoyable 89km loop through the Hageland region, with 639m of elevation, featuring the rolling terrain that surrounds Leuven. The route is a local favorite, blending countryside charm with just enough climbing to make it feel like a proper send-off.

We’ll tackle a few short, sharp ascents—including the Keizersberg, Kortrijk-Dutsel, and Smeysberg—while cruising past fields, vineyards, and forest lanes. The roads are quiet and scenic, with plenty of photo stops and time to soak it all in.

After a coffee and pastry stop mid-ride, we return to Leuven in the early afternoon with a ceremonial finish in the city’s beautiful center.

Spend your final afternoon at your own pace—whether it’s exploring Leuven’s museums, visiting the Stella Artois brewery, or relaxing at a café in the Oude Markt with a well-earned beer.

You’ve ridden the cobbles, conquered the Ardennes, tasted Belgium’s best—and created memories for a lifetime.

Today's Rides

What Else?

  • 2nd night at The Fourth - Tafelrond

  • Farewell dinner and toast to your adventure

  • Restaurant: Domus – In the evening, we come together for a farewell dinner at Domus, Leuven’s traditional brewery-restaurant where we’ll raise a final toast to 15 unforgettable days of cycling, camaraderie, and adventure.

 

Travel Details

How to Get There

TRAIN: from Leuven, FLY OUT OF: Brussles

DEPARTING LOCATION: Leuven Hotel

DEPARTING TIME: Hotel Checkout is 11:00am

FLY INTO: Brussles, TRAIN: to Ghent

MEETING LOCATION Ghent Hotel

MEETING TIME: Hotel check in is 2:00pm

 

Departing

🛫 How to Get from Leuven to Brussels Airport

Leaving Belgium is just as easy as arriving! Here’s how you can reach Brussels Airport (Zaventem) from Leuven with minimal hassle.

🚆 By Train (Best Option – Quick & Direct)

  • Duration: Only 15–20 minutes

  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes or better, from early morning to late evening

  • Steps:

    1. Head to Leuven Train Station, located in the city center.

    2. Buy a ticket to Brussels Airport – Zaventem (available at ticket machines, the NMBS desk, or online).

      • Approximate cost: €10–€12

    3. Board the direct train to the airport. Some may require a short change at Brussels-North—check the departure screens for your platform.

    4. The train arrives inside the airport terminal (Level -1), just a short walk to check-in.

Arriving

✈️ How to Get from Brussels Airport to Ghent

Welcome to Belgium! Getting from Brussels Airport (Zaventem) to Ghent is simple and convenient. You have a few easy options depending on your preference for speed, comfort, or cost:

🚆 By Train (Recommended) – Fast, Direct, and Scenic

  • Duration: About 55 minutes

  • Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes throughout the day

  • Steps:

    1. After collecting your luggage, follow signs to the train station located below the airport (Level -1).

    2. Buy a ticket to Gent-Sint-Pieters station. You can purchase it at ticket machines, the NMBS/SNCB desk, or online.

      • Approximate cost: €17–€20 (one-way)

    3. Take the direct train to Gent-Sint-Pieters, or one with a short change at Brussels-North or Brussels-South.

    4. From Gent-Sint-Pieters, you can take a taxi, tram, or walk to your hotel (most central hotels are 10–15 minutes by tram or taxi).