Upon your arrival in the city of Veurne, spend some time exploring the beauty of the small Old Town. Make sure you leave time to take in the main market square, one of the most beautiful in the whole of Belgium. This is a great way to start your Belgium cycling holiday.
Your first ride will take you up the coast towards Nieuwpoort. On the way, you will pass a museum dedicated to Paul Delvaux, the famous painter, before visiting the highest dune on the coast at the beach resort of Koksijde. Nieuwpoort is best known for the 1600AD battle that took place between a Spanish and Duch army, spend some time in the West Front visitors’ centre to find out more about this. End the day in Oostende and watch the sunset over the sea.
Today you will only ride 38km which means you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bruges, something you will be grateful for upon arrival! Before you reach the cobbled city, we recommend stopping in the village of Stalhille. Enjoy some honey tea or a class of honey beer whilst you sit and take the views in. We then recommend walking through the Meetkerkse Moeren nature reserve. The open wetlands produce wildflowers and more are being added to continue providing shelter for bats and birds.
Following a day on the bike, relax and take in Bruges. The town boasts excellent places to eat and drink, famous architecture and an all-around charming culture. Make sure you visit the square during the day and at night for two totally unique perspectives of the beautiful city.
Jump back on the cycle paths and ride through the woody Houtland region, broken up by hidden castles and spectacular country estates. We recommend stopping in Torhout, Gitsberg and Hooglede on your way to the final destination of Roeselaere.
Your ride today is special as you will be guided through the manmade Rhodesgood woods. Work Since 1995, this area has been transformed from farmland into what is now a haven for nature and wildlife. hundreds of plants and animals now inhabit the woods which provide a special section for your cycling journey. Stop for a break in Izegum and explore the halls of Eperon d’Or museum, a magnificent shoe museum.
You will then ride through West Flanders to Kortrijk. Here you should stroll around the town, checking out the Belfry, Town Hall, beguinage and chapel. If St Anthony’s church of the Passionist Fathers is open, it is worth having a look at the vibrantly painted interior.
Following a ride on the River Leie, you will visit Menen (Menin) where there is a strong military history presence. you will then move on to Beselare to ‘Passchendaele 1917’ Memorial Museum dedicated to the Battle of Passchendaele, a 3-month battle that led to the tragic deaths of hundreds of thousands of individuals. There is much to do here if you are interested in finding out more about this event.
Later, vsit Hill62 where trenches from the great war have been preserved. Download the ‘Ypres Salient 1914-1918’ app to help you explore the area. End the day in Ypres where you can visit the ‘In Flanders Fields’ Museum. If you like, there is a poignant ceremony that takes place at 20:00 each evening in front of the Menin Gate memorial. Respects are paid to those who sadly lost their lives in the trenches.
The visitor’s centre in Lijssenthoek is a highly recommended place to visit today, proving photographs, stories and incredible insight into the role the area played during The Great War. Following a morning here, you’ll then cycle to Poperinge, a charming Gothic town. The Hop Museum is a must for any lovers of Belgian beer and hop culture. Following this, you’ll pass St. Sixtus Abbey in Westvleteren. The monks go about their prayers and manual work in the brewery, something you have to find out more about if you’re in the area. This is one of six Belgian abbeys that brew Trappist beer.
Your last ride on the bike will lead you through West Flanders and the kind of roads that will make this trip so special and unique. Ride past vibrant fields, pristine streams, through old fashioned villages and into your final resting point of Veurne. A perfect end to a perfect Flanders cycling holiday.
Enjoy one final buffet breakfast (making the most of Belgium’s incredible food!) before concluding your cycling holiday and heading to the airport for your onward journey. If you wish to extend your stay just let our cycling experience team know when you inquire.
Belgium is one of the most charming places to cycle in Europe. The country’s commitment to cycling ensures there are ample cycle paths and networks available for those looking to tour the lowlands. Link the famous cities and towns by following scenic river paths or secluded countryside lanes before discovering the cultural and architectural histories of Antwerp, Leuven and more. If you’re new to cycling or simply seeking relaxed rides with great rewards, this is the place for you.
