Every spring, cycling fans in Britain tune in to watch the drama of the Tour of Flanders unfold, cobbled climbs, narrow lanes, and passionate fans. But did you know you can ride those same routes yourself?
The Magic of the Tour of Flanders
The Tour of Flanders (Ronde van Vlaanderen) is one of cycling’s legendary Monument Classics. It’s not just the length of the race that makes it famous, it’s the relentless series of short, steep climbs, many paved with bone-rattling cobbles.
Some of the most iconic include:
Koppenberg – brutally steep, maxing out at 22% on slippery cobbles.
Oude Kwaremont – long and punishing, the climb where champions are often made.
Paterberg – short but savage, and always decisive in the race finale.
For British riders, it’s a chance to test yourself against the very same climbs tackled by the pros. Think of it as the Belgian version of climbing Alpe d’Huez: steeped in history, atmosphere, and challenge.
Why UK Riders Flock to the Flemish Ardennes
What makes the Flemish Ardennes so appealing for cyclists from the UK?
Easy access from London: Hop on the Eurostar to Brussels, then take a direct train to Oudenaarde. Door to door, you can be in the heart of cycling country in around 3–4 hours.
Perfect for a long weekend: No need for a full week off—three or four days is enough to soak up the experience.
Rolling landscapes: The Flemish Ardennes offer a patchwork of fields, forests, and villages—gentle yet challenging terrain, very different from the Alps or Pyrenees.
Cycling culture everywhere: You’ll find cycling cafés, local riders on every climb, and even murals and statues celebrating the Tour of Flanders.
It feels like a pilgrimage for anyone who rides, whether you’re a seasoned roadie or just love the thrill of cycling new routes.
Practical Tips for Your Cycling Trip
Planning your first cycling holiday in Belgium? Here are a few things to know:
Bring your own bike or rent – Many UK riders travel with their bikes, but there are also quality rental shops in Oudenaarde if you prefer to travel light.
Best time to visit – Spring and autumn are ideal, with cooler weather and the added buzz of cycling season. Summer offers longer days but can be busier.
Cycling events – You can even ride the official Tour of Flanders Sportive, held the day before the pro race each April. Thousands of amateurs from around the world take part.
Stay fuelled – Belgian cafés are cyclist-friendly, with hearty sandwiches, pancakes, and, of course, world-class beer for post-ride celebrations.
Where to Stay: Your Cycling Basecamp
Choosing the right accommodation makes all the difference on a cycling holiday. Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde is a favourite among UK cyclists for good reason:
Secure bike storage – Peace of mind that your bike is safe overnight.
Bike repair and cleaning facilities – Keep your bike in top condition between rides.
Spacious, comfortable rooms – Perfect for recovery after long hours in the saddle.
Brasserie on site – Betwisted is ideal for carb-loading with pasta, Belgian stews, and local dishes.
Eco-friendly credentials – Stay with the reassurance of a Green Key certified hotel.
Plus, the hotel is right in the centre of Oudenaarde, a historic town that’s considered the beating heart of the Tour of Flanders. The Tour of Flanders Centre (Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen) museum is just a short stroll away, where you can relive race history before heading out on your own ride.
Discover more about staying at Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde in the Flemish Ardennes.
Beyond The Bike
Even the most dedicated cyclists need a rest day. Fortunately, Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes offer plenty beyond the bike:
Town Square of Oudenaarde – A beautiful setting lined with cafés and historic buildings.
MOU Museum – Learn about the town’s history, from medieval tapestries to cycling heritage.
Local breweries – Belgium is world-famous for its beer, and Oudenaarde is no exception. Try a refreshing local ale after your ride.
Walking routes – If you fancy stretching your legs off the bike, the region has lovely hiking trails.
It makes the destination perfect for mixed groups too—non-cyclists won’t be short of things to do while you tackle the climbs.
Conclusion
For UK riders, the Flemish Ardennes offer the ultimate cycling weekend. Just a short train journey from London, you’ll find yourself on the same iconic cobbled climbs that define the Tour of Flanders. Add in stunning scenery, welcoming cafés, and a town steeped in cycling history, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.
And when it comes to finding a hotel in the Flemish Ardennes, Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde is the ideal basecamp, combining cyclist-friendly facilities with comfort, style, and a central location.
So why just watch the race when you can ride it yourself? Plan your cycling break in the Flemish Ardennes and discover why UK riders keep coming back year after year.
Book your stay at Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde and start your adventure today.
