Riding in Belgium with Italy Bike Tours was an incredible experience from start to finish. The cobbled climbs, narrow Flemish roads and atmosphere around the Ronde were exactly what I had dreamed of experiencing. Having the team there for route guidance, mechanical support and local knowledge made a huge difference, especially on the bergs and cobbled sectors. The highlight was riding roads like the Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg and then being part of the race weekend atmosphere. Ghent was the perfect base, with great food, Belgian beer and plenty to enjoy off the bike too. A brilliant trip for anyone who loves the Spring Classics and wants to experience Flanders properly.
CLASSIC
FLANDERS
Feel the Pulse of Flanders and Ride the World’s Most Passionate Cycling Heartland
Conquer the Cobbles: Immerse Yourself in the Raw Intensity of Cycling’s Greatest Monument.
The Tour of Flanders is not just a race - it is a defining moment in the cycling calendar and a true expression of Flemish identity.
Based in the historic city of Ghent, this experience is designed to take you beyond the surface of the event and into the heart of what makes the Ronde so unique. From quiet rural roads to brutal cobbled climbs, every ride tells a story shaped by decades of racing history.
You will ride the same iconic bergs as the professionals, guided by expert local knowledge and enriched by exclusive experiences - including the opportunity to ride alongside a former professional cyclist.
Combined with cultural highlights, authentic Belgian traditions and a carefully curated program, this tour offers a complete and unforgettable immersion into the world of Flanders.
This is not simply a cycling holiday. It is an experience of the Monument from the inside.
Hear It From
Our Guests.
More Than
Just a Ride.
From legendary cobbled climbs and iconic race sectors to the historic streets of Ghent, Belgian cycling culture and authentic local experiences, discover what makes the Tour of Flanders unforgettable both on and off the bike.
In the Saddle
Legendary Cobbled Climbs
Ride the legendary cobbled climbs, including the Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg and Koppenberg.
Ride the Pro Roads
Experience the same roads and sectors as the professionals.
Ride with a Former Pro
Ride alongside a former professional cyclist, gaining insight into race tactics and cobble technique.
Watch the Pros
Watch the pros race live on the cobbles before taking on the same climbs yourself.
Supported Flemish Rides
Enjoy supported rides through the Flemish Ardennes.
Beyond the Ride
Discover Ghent
Relax and wander through the historic city of Ghent.
Tour of Flanders Pro Race
Experience the atmosphere of the Tour of Flanders Pro Race.
Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen
Visit the Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen and immerse yourself in the history of the Ronde.
Belgian Beer Experience
Enjoy a private beer experience and tasting at Brouwerij Gruut.
Belgian Cycling Culture
Witness one of the most important cycling events and immerse yourself in the world of Belgian cycling.
Moments From
The Journey.
Day
by day.
Experience the Tour of Flanders from the inside — ride legendary cobbled climbs, explore the Flemish Ardennes, take part in We Ride Flanders and witness one of cycling’s greatest Monuments live in the heart of Belgium.
Upon arrival at Brussels Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to Ghent, your base for the tour.
After a professional bike fitting, you head out for a relaxed warm up ride through the Flemish countryside. Quiet canal roads and narrow farm lanes offer a first introduction to the terrain and atmosphere of the region.
During the ride, you will stop at Pedaleur Flanders, an iconic cycling shop in Ghent - a perfect immersion into the local cycling culture and a chance to discover unique Flemish cycling craftsmanship.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner in the historic center of Ghent, with an introduction to Belgian beer culture.
Hotel NH Collection | Ghent
Today you experience the true essence of Flemish cycling. You ride into the Flemish Ardennes together with a former Belgian professional rider, tackling the legendary cobbled climbs that define the Tour of Flanders, including the Oude Kwaremont and the Paterberg.
Throughout the ride, your guest pro shares insights into race tactics, positioning and how to handle the cobbles - offering a unique perspective from inside the peloton.
After the ride, you visit the Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen, the spiritual home of the Ronde.
Later, return to Ghent for a private tasting at Brouwerij Gruut, where you discover a unique medieval brewing tradition based on herbal blends.
Hotel NH Collection | Ghent
Today it’s your turn to ride the Monument.
You take part in the official “We Ride Flanders” sportive, following the same legendary roads and climbs as the professionals. Before the start, a short briefing will help you prepare for the cobbled sectors and manage your effort throughout the ride.
In the evening, we celebrate together in Gent with a traditional Flemish dinner.
Hotel NH Collection | Ghent
Before diving into the atmosphere of race day, you will enjoy a relaxed morning ride around Ghent, exploring the canals and quiet countryside roads - the perfect way to loosen the legs after the sportive.
The day is designed to give you a full immersion into the race atmosphere, with viewing at one of the most iconic sectors, where the decisive moments often unfold. With expert commentary and local insight, you gain a deeper understanding of the tactics and intensity of the race.
We will then return to Ghent in the evening.
Hotel NH Collection | Ghent
Your final morning begins with a relaxed recovery ride along the canals surrounding Ghent.
After a coffee stop, you return to the hotel before transferring to Brussels Airport.
A Typical Day
in Flanders.
A day shaped by cobbles, cycling culture and Belgian tradition. Ride the legendary Flemish roads, soak up the atmosphere in Ghent and finish the day with the flavours that make Belgium unique.
Belgian Breakfast
Fresh pastries, coffee & a briefing for the cobbles.
Ride the Bergs
Kwaremont, Paterberg & the roads of the Flemish Ardennes.
Café Stop
Belgian waffles, coffee & the atmosphere of local cycling cafés.
Back to Ghent
Historic streets, a local beer & time to relax after the ride.
Moules-Frites
Belgian mussels, crispy fries & a local beer to finish the day.
Dates
& Prices.
Join us in Flanders for an unforgettable long weekend of cobbled climbs, legendary race roads and the unmistakable atmosphere of cycling’s greatest Monument.
Ridley Bikes
& Gear.
Choose your perfect ride for the full duration of your tour. Conventional bikes are available for €500, while e-bikes are €650.
Ridley ASTR GRX600
Explore epic landscapes. Lightweight, responsive and adventure-ready — perfect for gravel, touring and big days out.
Ridley FALCN
Lightweight and aerodynamic, designed for speed, precision handling and all-day comfort on performance rides.
E-Kanzo Adventure or similar
A powerful motor, long-lasting battery and comfortable design — ideal for scenic mountain roads and iconic climbs.
The Nuts
& Bolts.
Everything you need to know before joining the Tour of Flanders — from what’s included and airport transfers to cobbled road conditions, Belgian cuisine, hotel facilities and practical tour information.
- 4 nights accommodation in Ghent
- Daily breakfast
- 3 dinners
- Fully guided rides with expert cycling guides
- Support vehicle during all rides
- Bike fitting service
- Ride with a former professional cyclist
- Entry to “We Ride Flanders” sportive
- Visit to Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen
- Private brewery experience at Brouwerij Gruut
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Technical and logistical support throughout the tour
- IBT cycling jersey
- IBT water bottle
- City taxes
- Travel insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Bike rental (available on request)
- Personal expenses
- Additional meals not specified
- Beverages
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities
- Level: Perfect for fit cycling enthusiasts who want to experience the unique demands of riding on cobbles and short, steep climbs.
- Total Kilometres: Approximately 250–300 km (155–185 miles) across the week, including iconic cobbled sectors and legendary bergs of the Tour of Flanders.
- When: Early April 2026, during the official Tour of Flanders weekend.
- Start: The journey begins at Brussels Airport (BRU), with a transfer to our hotel in Ghent.
- Finish: From Ghent, a transfer will be arranged back to Brussels Airport for departure.
- Nearest Airport: We recommend flying into Brussels Airport (BRU) for both arrival and departure.
- Top Tip: This is one of the most popular cycling events in the world - early booking is highly recommended to secure entry to the sportive and access to the race weekend.
- Average Age of Guest: The minimum age to participate in the sportive is 18 years old. This tour is best suited to cyclists with a good level of fitness and a passion for road cycling.
- Male vs Female %: Predominantly male, with a growing number of female cyclists joining this iconic event experience.
Please arrange to meet us at Brussels Airport (BRU) at 1:00 pm on Day 1. We will contact you via WhatsApp in the days leading up to the start of your tour to confirm your transfer details and the name of the staff member collecting you.
Following the conclusion of the tour, we will assist you with planning your onward travel. A group transfer will be arranged to Brussels Airport, departing the hotel at approximately 10:30 am. For alternative departure times or destinations, please contact us at alberto@italybiketours.com.
Please consider having lunch before meeting the group. The transfer time from Brussels Airport to Gent is approximately 1 hour.
Riding in Flanders is unique and iconic. Expect a mix of smooth countryside roads, narrow farm lanes and traditional cobbled sectors. The terrain features short, steep climbs known as “bergs”, requiring both strength and bike handling skills.
Riding in Flanders is a unique experience. The climbs are short, sharp and often cobbled, which makes bike handling, pacing and positioning especially important. Expect repeated efforts on the bergs, changing road surfaces and a true taste of Belgian cycling culture throughout the tour.
Belgium is renowned for its rich and varied cuisine. From traditional Flemish dishes, like fries, Watrerzooi and moules-frites, to international options, meals are both hearty and refined. Please inform us of any dietary requirements in advance. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy local specialties, including Belgian beers, seasonal dishes and regional products.
The hotel offers excellent facilities including WiFi, bar service and secure bike storage. Laundry services may be available at an additional cost.
Absolutely. Non-riding partners are always very welcome on our tours. We offer dedicated non-rider experiences, allowing them to enjoy the destination in their own way while you’re out on the bike. Get in touch with our team to discover the non-rider options available for your chosen tour.
Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! The best way to get in touch is via email - we aim to respond within 24 hours. Please check your SPAM/JUNK folder if you haven’t received a reply. You can also use the contact form available on our website. If you need assistance with additional accommodation or activities before or after the tour, feel free to contact us at lynn@italybiketours.com.
Where You’ll
Stay.
Your base for the Tour of Flanders is the historic city of Ghent — four nights in a carefully selected hotel, perfectly placed for riding, exploring the city and experiencing the atmosphere of the Ronde.
Looking for
More Inspiration?
Discover more cycling experiences, destinations and ideas for your next Italian adventure in our latest brochure.
View Our 2026 & 2027 Brochure
Get in
Touch.
If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy, please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back.
You can also chat to us online using the button at the bottom right of the page, or send us an email directly.
info@italybiketours.com