Tour of Flanders Blue Loop

This route is considered a hard gravel ride, requiring very good fitness. It features numerous steep climbs, including cobbled sections with gradients up to 22%, and varied unpaved surfaces. Advanced riding skills are often necessary.

The terrain is diverse and demanding, featuring a mix of unpaved tracks, wooded lanes, and singletracks. You'll encounter infamous cobbled climbs, known as 'bergs,' which are often steep and can be poorly maintained. The route is constantly undulating, going up and down across various surface types.

The route is approximately 69.5 km (43.2 miles) long and typically takes around 5 hours and 37 minutes of pure riding time. However, given its challenging nature and potential for stops, plan for a longer overall duration.

Oudenaarde is the starting point for this loop. You can find parking options within the town, which also hosts the Tour of Flanders Centre. Parking near the center would be convenient for accessing the route.

The route offers picturesque villages, miniature valleys, historic water mills, and castles. You'll also get stunning panoramic views over the Flemish Ardennes. Notable highlights include the Aardeweg Singletrack, the challenging Taaienberg Cobbled Climb, and the iconic Paterberg Climb. You'll also pass through Kwaremont.

While specific regulations for this exact route are not detailed, generally in Belgium, dogs are allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them. Given the route's difficulty, consider if it's suitable for your dog's fitness level.

The best time to ride is typically during the spring or autumn months when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can also be good, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter riding is possible but can be very challenging due to wet, muddy, and potentially icy conditions on the unpaved and cobbled sections.

No, you do not need specific permits or to pay entrance fees to ride this loop or to access the trails within the Vlaamse Ardennen. The routes are generally open to the public. However, always respect private property and local regulations.

Yes, Oudenaarde offers various options for accommodation, restaurants, and cafes. Along the route, you might find smaller establishments in villages. A notable stop is De IJsmolenhoeve, which offers facilities. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer stretches.

Oudenaarde is well-connected by train, making it accessible via public transport. You can take a train to Oudenaarde station, which is a convenient starting point for the loop. Check Belgian rail services (NMBS/SNCB) for schedules and connections.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other well-known paths. You will ride along parts of the Ronde van Vlaanderen blauwe lus, Streek-GR Vlaamse Ardennen, and GR 129 Dwars door België | Vlaanderen. It also briefly touches the RAVeL Ligne 87 – Pays des Collines.