Belgium
Tour dates: July 24th-July 27th, 2026
Duration: 4 days
Distance: 263km
Grading: Easy (see below)
Whats included:
- Fully guided
- 3 nights' accomodation
- Ferry crossings
- Bike hire optional extra
Overview
Join us for a magnificent adventure along the coast of northern France and Belgium! The ride follows around 80% off-road cycle-ways taking in the gentle scenery surrounding canal-side paths through Belgium (and a small portion of Northern France). We'll visit Bruges with its cobbled streets and medieval buildings as well as the Flanders countryside, stopping at some of the famous war memorials along the way. Of course this enjoyable leisurely ride is topped off by a visit to the Poperinge Beer and Hop festival
It’s a very social trip taking it at your own pace with opportunity to enjoy the great café culture, taste the chocolate and some of the world's best beers.
Day 1 - Dunkirk to Oostende
Starting in London we catch an early train to Dover. From there we board a 2-hour ferry to Dunkirk. Our riding commences from the ferry terminal at Dunkirk and we head northeast along the North Sea coastline towards Oostende in Belgium. Follow the picturesque Canal de Furness we cross the border into Belgium and stop for lunch in the sea-side town, De Panne. The ride from De Panne to Oostende is a easy flat invigorating ride with a fresh breeze along the Belgium coastline trail and canal waterways to Oostende. In the evening we have the option to take a 20min train ride to Bruges to experience all that it has to offer - cobbled streets, historical medieval buildings, chocolates and beer.
Day 2 - Oostende to Ghent
Another flat day in the saddle as start out riding for Bruges where we will stop off and experience its charm in the daytime. After exploring the city and filling up our stomachs, we cycle through the hinterland of Bruges which is defined by its canals and lush green pastures. The canals are flanked by beautiful rows of trees and diverse fauna and flora all the way to Ghent. In the evening we will explore this charming Flemish city, characterised by its medieval pedestrianise city center.
Day 3 - Ghent to Ypres
Heading out from Ghent we will experience typical Belgium countryside and the freedom of traffic-free cycleways that are just made for this type of cycling. In the afternoon we will be stopping to explore some of the war memorials before arriving into Ypres to check in and then head to the fabulous Beer and Hop festival!
Day 3 - Ypres to Dunkirk
After a great time at the festival; on Sunday we will have a leisurely ride back to Dunkirk from Ypres to catch the ferry to Dover, then a train back to London (or elsewhere).
| Day | Route | Distance (Km) | |
| Total | 263 | ||
| Day 1 | Dunkirk-Ostende | 70 | |
| Day 2 | Ostende-Ghent | 67 | |
| Day 3 | Ghent-Ypres | 76 | |
| Day 3 | Ypres-Dunkirk | 50 |
Grading
Easier Adventure (1/5): The distance covered is somewhat substantial but flat and straight-forward. The route consists mostly of well paved designated cycle paths. Having a low to moderate level of fitness will be adequate for the tour.
Logistics
You will need to take your belongings with you in a pannier for the entire tour. On day one we meet in Dover and catch the ferry across to Dunkirk where we commence riding along the North Sea coastline to Ostende. On Day 3 we ride from Ghent to Poperinge Ypres through the expansive countryside, stopping at some of the war memorials along the way. On arrival in Ypres we head out to the Beer and Hop festival in Poperinge with its magnificent float parade, beer tents and fireworks display. Lastly, on our final day we ride back to Dunkirk to catch the ferry back to Dover.
What to budget for?
- Optional bike rental - for those that don’t own their own bike
- other meals are not included-budget for around 25 euros per day
- Travel insurance is excluded but compulsory
- Optional excursions not indicated in the itinerary above
- Any personal shopping or any extras
- Entry Visa to Belgium and France if required
What to bring
Travel light! Personal luggage will need to be carried by 3 days of tour. You will need to bring your own pannier (or clothes holding device) to be carried with you for the entire length of the trip. This can be hired at an extra charge of £15.
Price
£495
