THE SPRING CLASSICS I: THE COBBLES
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"If you want to see a sporting event, go to the Tour de France. If you want to see a bike race, go to the Tour of Flanders". Such are the words of the Flandrians, and a sentiment shared by us. The Flemish Ardennes, criss-crossed with short, steep cobbled climbs- The Muur van Geraardsbergen, the Paterberg, Eikenberg, Taaienberg, Steenbeekdries, Oude Kwaremont, Koppenberg-are as much a part of daily Flemish life as they are the backbone of one of the toughest races in professional cycling. Riding in West Flanders, the windswept fields of Gent-Wevelgem surround the demanding hills that have been put into a tortuous circuit that now comprises the race first run in 1934, and a course well worth riding. The Belgians may be demanding, but their loyalty is unquestioned.
World-Class Cycling
There are no greater single day races in the sport of cycling than the Spring Classics of April. From the Koppenberg and the steep cobbled climbs of the Flemish Ardennes to the hills and windswept fields of West Flanders, these races define cycling and the riders who win them. Experience all the drama of these epic battles up close – from the amateur Tour of Flanders Cyclosportif to the toughest sectors of pavé, we think you'll agree that you have to ride it to believe it!
Authentic Culture
Historic Belgium is on every street you walk down. Shopping and eating in the Grote Market, wandering along its charming canals and across cobbled bridges. The eclectic city of Gent pulsates under the shadows of its stone structures, while the Flemish city of Mechelen proudly displays its cathedral and serves Gouden Carolus, the local beer brewed by the Het Anker Brewery. Savor local Belgian ales, including the only beer still brewed in Bruges at the Haalve Maan Brewery; view the art of Jan van Eyck and the only work by Michelangelo outside of Italy; and immerse yourself in a cycling culture that is unmatched anywhere else on the streets of Europe, including a visit to the Tour of Flanders Museum.
Exemplary Service
Experience counts, and we put our intricate knowledge of Belgian roads to good use to assure you're in prime viewing for all of the race-winning moves. VIP access to the race starts of Flanders and The Scheldeprijs; VIP lunch on the Flanders course; VIP booth at the finish line for the Scheldeprijs and a post race party; and live TV in the vans assures you you're on top of the action the whole day.