Belgium as a Destination for a Cycling Tour: Bikes, Beer, and Cobbles

When people think of cycling tours in Europe, they often picture the lavender fields of Provence, the rolling vineyards of Tuscany or the challenging climbs in the Alps. But tucked between France, Germany and the Netherlands you have Belgium, a small country that punches far above its weight when it comes to cycling adventures.

As someone with a passion for cycling and being married to a Belgian, I can tell you firsthand, Belgium is made for the bike. From its cobbled streets and forested lanes to its legendary beers and rich cycling history, it’s a destination that offers challenge, charm and plenty of character.

A Country That Breathes Cycling

Cycling in Belgium isn’t a niche hobby, it’s a way of life. From a young age, Belgians grow up riding to school, to the market, to work. Many towns around universities such as Leuven and Antwerp are car free zones to allow for safe cycling. On weekends, you’ll see local group rides everywhere, from casual riders to serious amateurs chasing their heroes such as Eddy Merckx across classic race routes. 

Belgium is also home to some of the most iconic cycling races in the world, the Tour of Flanders, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, and Fleche Wallonne. Riding here is about embracing the elements, the grit, and the pride that comes with every turn of the pedals.

Cobbled Climbs and Scenic Rides

The beauty of Belgium as a cycling destination is the diversity of terrain. Yes, there are cobbles but there’s also the Ardennes forest, gentle countryside lanes, canal paths through Flanders, and the rolling hills around Namur and Dinant. Because Belgium is so small (think the size of Tasmania), nothing is far.  

For those up for the challenge, tackling iconic climbs like the Muur van Geraardsbergen is a rite of passage. But there are just as many gentle, scenic routes suited to leisure riders, families, or those who want to balance kilometres with café stops. Just a heads up, in Belgium, a 'café' isn’t where you grab a latte, it’s a pub! You’ll still find plenty of traditional 'brown cafés' dotted across the country, perfect for enjoying a local beer and having a chat with the friendly locals. 

Ride Into a Festival

Time your trip right, and you’ll experience Belgium when it’s truly at its liveliest. Towns like Aalst and Leuven come alive during Carnaval (March), with colourful parades, costumes, and music filling the streets. 

In the summer, many local cyclists take on the classic challenge of riding from the centre of Belgium to the coast and back in a single day. The Belgian coast buzzes with energy, and beach towns often host open-air concerts on the dijk (seawall), giving visitors the perfect mix of fitness, culture and seaside fun.

And don’t miss the Kermis, it’s a local fair held in nearly every town, with food stalls, rides, live music, and a party atmosphere that makes you feel like a local. These are often combined with a local cycling race. It’s the perfect way to mix your riding holiday with some authentic Belgian fun.

TIP: if you are at a kermis and you like sweets, make sure you try the smoutebollen. 

Post-Ride Perfection: Beer, Frites and Culture

There’s something uniquely satisfying about finishing a ride in Belgium and sitting down to a crisp Trappist beer brewed by monks in an abbey older than modern-Australia. Pair it with golden frites, a cheese or shrimp croquette, or a steaming bowl of moules, and you’ve got the ultimate post-ride reward.

And don’t forget the culture and history: medieval towns like Bruges and Ghent, World War I sites in Ypres, the surreal art of Magritte, and the grand place in Brussels are all a must see. 

One of the best things about Belgium is that it’s small, accessible, and full of surprises. In a week-long bespoke tour, you can experience historic cities, countryside hospitality, local brews, and world-class cycling, all without long transfers or chaotic logistics.

At HGTE, we work with local guides (and family) who know the best roads, the coziest inns, and the spots you won’t find in any brochure. Whether you want to ride hard, roll easy, or mix riding with sightseeing and slow dining, we’ll tailor your trip to match your pace, preferences and group dynamic.

Contact us to explore a trip to Belgium