| Geraardsbergen, one of the first settlements in Belgium to receive a Town Charter from the hands of the Boudewijn, Count of Flanders, in 1069 BC.
Once of enormous strategic importance, as it was situated on the crossroads of Dutch and French kingdoms, Geraardsbergen still possesses a pleiade of pittoresc and natural historical sites, to be enjoyed at a leisurely cycling pace.
Being close to the “Flemish Ardennes”, with “hills” up to 134 meters and lots of “cobbled roads”, the so-called “Wall of Geraardsbergen is a favourite part of the world’s most prestigious cycling races, i.e. the “Tour de France” (which has crossed the French border four times already to include Geraardsbergen and also the “Ronde van Vlaanderen” (often, the outcome is decided by whoever masters the “Wall” first).
Cyclists can enjoy an “quiet” (more or less flat) or a “sportive” (uphill) track in and around Geraardsbergen, ranging from 15, 25, 30 to 40 kilometres.
On trafic-friendly roads, crossing one of the last of the official so-called “quiet area’s”, you can get to know your fellow cyclists and stop to visit the many interesing sites in and around Geraardsbergen.
Cycling in our town is good for your health and offers you a window on ancient glory, breath taking natural sites …… and after the effort, an opportunity to relax and enjoy local gastronomy and a well filled beer menu. |
