PN Tour of Flanders

Cycling

The landscape we cycle through is surprisingly varied, from coastal dunes to poplar lined canals, characterful en-route villages and then the rolling hills of the Flemish Ardennes. Most of the riding is fairly flat and straightforward, with at least half of the route on off-road cycle paths. And while it isn’t the focus of the trip, in the final couple of days you have the chance to take on some of those famous cobbled hills (or to walk up them with the guides or avoid them entirely!) A ride within the reach of most cyclists, with a bit of optional fun and challenge mixed in at the end…for those riders who want extra miles, or who aren’t keen on sightseeing, gpx files for extra loops at the end of the day will be provided to enable you to burn a bit more bicycle rubber.

Highlights

• visit and explore some of Europe’s most stunning cities
• ride mainly on quiet back roads and cycle paths, through a wide variety of landscapes including coast and canal-side
• Belgian beer (with or without alcohol) and food – say no more
• the option to try your hand at some of the famous climbs on the Tour of Flanders
• big skies and rows of poplar trees

Accommodation

Your accommodation is on a twin-share, bed and breakfast basis in a mix of comfortable chain hotels and selected family-run properties. We prioritise rider comfort, with air-conditioned rooms where possible and secure bike storage throughout. While chain hotels offer consistent quality, we also include locally-run options with character when available.

NB Single accommodation is available for a supplement of £395.

Meals

The hotels will provide breakfast whilst the support team will provide a pack-up lunch, this will depend on what is available on the day and could include a mix of fresh sandwiches, pasties or easy grab and bites sourced from local bakeries. If weather doesn’t permit outdoors we will get into cafes for quick lunch.

​You will need to purchase your own evening meals, which are usually eaten communally although of course you are free to opt out if you wish.

We will carry emergency energy gels and bars in the support van but you are advised to bring along your own preferred sports nutrition to fuel your ride. There will be water refills, fruits bars etc provided to keep you hydrated.

In the Tour Plan, (B, L, D) refers to meals included in the trip cost i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Bike Transfers

We will happily transport your bike to Dover and back from Dunkirk at no extra charge. If you drop your bike off at our Sheffield office up to a day before departure we will carefully pack it in the support van, drive it to the start and then return it to Sheffield ready for you to collect.

If that isn’t convenient then depending where you live we may be able to collect your bike on our journey from Sheffield to Dover. Please get in touch with us to discuss arrangements, any other arrangements will be for an agreed fee.

While we will take all reasonable care while handling your bikes, using padded covers and making sure they are securely stored, we are not liable for any loss or damage during transportation and storage. We recommend you have appropriate insurance.

Taking your bikes to the continent, As we are no longer part of the EU customs unions, any bike we transport to Europe requires an ATA Carnet which incurs a fee of £60 per bike. This cost will be added to your invoice.

Tour Plan

The route of this tour is flexible and should be seen as a guide only. Local conditions, weather or fitness could lead to changes in our daily plans. All times and distances are approximate.