For the adventurous cyclist who wants to stay a little longer and is looking for more of a challenge: the Eddy Merckx Cycling Route has been revamped and expanded to a beautiful 70km loop through the beautiful Hageland . Here I share why you must cycle this ride-and mind you, bring your sense of curiosity. Too bad they didn't go to an 80km route for form's sake, though. If only because of 'The Cannibal's' birthday.
Why this route should be your next challenge
- Strong: 500m of climbing without long climbs
Flemish Brabant at its best. You still have almost 500 altimeters under your wheels, but nowhere do you have a climb much longer than a kilometre. Flemish Brabant is comparable to Dutch Limburg in that respect, with the proviso that you still get a cobbled section here. - On the road of the 'Cannibal'
Departure like Merckx in Meensel-Kiezegem, where his statue and vibrant mural welcome you. This is a must visit for any cyclist, who has a thing for racing. You literally cycle on the route where Eddy made his first laps. Those who feel the cycling folklore will really be touched here. - Varied landscape & culture
- Oudenbos: a nice climb.
- Vineyards of Houwaart: After climbing the Houwaertsberg, you catch the vineyards. The wine tradition dating back to the fifth century makes this part of Hageland a bit 'Tuscany light'.
- Horst Castle: sturdy medieval structure with deep historical roots
- Perfect loop
Beautiful tarmac, mostly car-free and only a few unpaved lanes to . Driving around feels effortless thanks to clear signs and, of course, with the GPX files you can find below.
Two additional tips
- Get extra height with the Marolles chapel
Take a slight diversions at Hoegaarden for a steep climb (10-12 %), followed by a break overlooking the Hageland. And while you're there, a visit to the brewery of Hoegaarden not a bad choice. Just have to lock the bike and bring the cleat covers, though. - Lunch at the 'Wine Bank' on Houwaartse Berg
Not on the route? Just cycle back: the 'Wine Bank'-a vantage point among the vineyards-is perfect for stretching your legs and tasting a local glass of wine. Relaxes the body as well as the soul.
In brief the Route 70km - 150km
For those ready for a nice day on the road, would like to cycle in Eddy's tracks for once and also explore the Brabant countryside, this route offers just that: a combination of climbing, culture and a story of 'slands greatest cyclist.
More routes in Flemish Brabant? Cycling in Flemish Brabant: the Arrow and more
