Walking the inclines of the Tour of Flanders

Your legs better be in good shape today, because you’ve got a 15.5 km hike and some steep climbs ahead of you. This route is a leg killer. You will climb some iconic inclines from the Tour of Flanders – the Kortekeer, the Rotelenberg and the legendary Koppenberg – and you’ll undoubtedly feel like a hiking version of veteran Belgian cyclists, for one day at least.

So, book yourself a broom wagon, put your motivation in top gear, and kick off the hike of your life in Maarkedal.

Break away and get off to a flying start

The starting shot has been fired. And although the trophies will only be awarded at the finish line, an initial prize is already on the horizon. The Spijkerbos is one of the rare forests in the Flemish Ardennes that lies on a southern slope. What does that mean? That you'll walk in blissful sunshine all day long. Be sure to check out the viewpoint at junction 81; it’s phenomenal!

You won’t get much time to rest, because it’s time to tame the Kortekeer. You want to prepare yourself? OK, here are the figures: 1 km of asphalt road, 6.4% gradient, with an incredibly steep section that climbs a whopping 17.1%. The next stop is...

Hallelujah, what a hike!

...the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. On one of the flanks of Koppenberg Forest, you’ll find this beautiful, serene spot. It’s the ideal place to take a break, with a gurgling spring flowing peacefully in the background.

Afterwards, feel free to enter Koppenberg Forest. The forest is very beautiful in spring, when the wild bluebells create a light blue carpet between the trees. Centuries-old oak trees bend over dilapidated trenches from WWI. At that time, the forest was used as a training area for troops.

Come on! Climb the Koppenberg!

But, hey, that’s enough historical facts and enough rest! After all, the Koppenberg looms in the distance. Also known as ‘the bulge of Melden’, it’s a tough hill that has made even the most experienced cyclists cry for their mothers at times.

In fact, the Koppenberg has been recognised as a monument since 1995. Today, you'll be walking steeply uphill to victory. A victory for yourself – but a victory nonetheless, right?

(The best cafés of) the Tour of Flanders

Real, tough athletes know when to lubricate the internal mechanism. Sliding your legs under the table in a charming establishment from time to time can do wonders. Café ‘t Oud Gemeentehuis in Zulzeke is the place to be for a drink. It’s a pleasant village pub with a very impressive beer list.

Feeling hungry after that wonderful hike? Then Restaurant La Bonnotte (Maarkedal) or ‘t Veer (Oudenaarde) are your best bets.

At La Bonnotte, you'll walk into a fabulous interior. You’ll enjoy refined classics prepared by a creative chef.

‘t Veer is a bit further away from your route, but well worth the detour. At an old arm of the Scheldt River in Melden, you can enjoy a delicious meal in a very cosy atmosphere.

Staying over is always a good idea

As you know, the Flemish Ardennes cannot be visited in a single day. Perhaps you're already dreaming of a few days away together with your family or with friends. That’s certainly possible, as there are numerous cosy B&Bs and holiday homes in the immediate vicinity.

For example, book your stay in the Bellovisto holiday home, a stunningly beautiful residence with picturesque views. It’s furnished to perfection and tastefully restored. You’ll feel like you’re in a private paradise.