Cycling trip in Flanders and the North Sea
The West Flanders region offers you an ideal mix of culture and nature. You will enjoy your cycling holiday in Belgium through varied landscapes and along the canals. You are never far from a cultural heritage to visit. In particular, you will follow in the footsteps of the First World War by crossing the towns of Ieper and Diksmuide. And above all, you can discover the beautiful city of Bruges with its exceptional cultural and architectural heritage!
Highlights of the stay:
- Bruges
- Leper and Diksmuide
- The castles
- The polders
- the "Het Zwin" nature reserve
Day 1 - Arrival in Roeselare
Arrival expected around 6:00 p.m. and delivery of your journey log. It is possible to make a first loop by bike to the Basilica of Dadizele and around Roeselare to discover the surrounding landscapes.
Overnight in Roeselare.
Day 2 - from Roeselare to Ieper / Kemmel - 31 km
The first hike will take you to Ieper, a medieval town famous for its Main Square or the famous “Porte de Menin” memorial, also called Menenpoort. Along the way, you'll pass Tyne Cot Cemetery commemorating English soldiers.
Overnight in Ieper or Kemmel.
Day 3 - From Ieper / Kemmel to Diksmuide - 45 or 60 km
This stage takes you to Poperinge, another medieval town renowned for its breeding of Hops ("Hoppe"), an important ingredient in the manufacture of beer. We recommend a visit to the Abbey of Saint-Sixte and a tasting of beer brewed by the monks. Then, you will follow the "Yser" river to Diksmuide, for the end of your stage. You can admire and visit in particular the Yzer Tower, the largest monument of peace in Europe.
Overnight in Diksmuide.
Day 4 - From Diksmuide to Bruges - 62 km
Today you take the road towards Bruges, also called "The Venice of the North". The medieval city has managed to keep all the splendor of its architectural heritage. The historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. You can also discover its belfry.
Overnight in Bruges.
Day 5 - Loop circuit to Knokke le Zout - 64 km
Today's stage will take you through the region between Bruges and Knokke, a social village on the Belgian coast. An incredible hike, crossing the Flemish "polders". Stop at the "Het Zwin" nature reserve, home to rare plant species and thousands of birds, or the picturesque small town of Damme. You also have the option of taking a swimming break! Return to Bruges.
Overnight in Bruges.
Day 6 - Loop circuit to De Haan - 52 km
Continuation of the hike towards De Haan, a coastal village, which has preserved the style and atmosphere of the Belle Epoque (19th century). Return to Bruges.
Overnight in Bruges.
Day 7 - Bruges - Roeselare - 59 km
Departure for your last cycling route to Roeselare, departure town. During this stage, you can visit two castles:
Possible visit to the cycling museum.
Overnight in Roeselare.
Day 8 - End of the tour after breakfast