100 kms / Elevation: 1000 m gain - 1050 m loss / 5% national roads / 70% tarmac bike paths (RAVeL) / 25% gravel bike paths / difficulty: medium
Interactive map and GPX file below
This cycling adventure will take you from Gouvy to Bastogne in the Belgian Ardennes. Then it will cross some beautiful peaceful gravel roads before crossing the border to Luxembourg. The last third of the ride undulates small hills on impeccable cycling paths in a mix of Luxembourgish country side and small towns.
Gouvy to Bastogne
The first 30k from Gouvy to Bastogne are quite straight and flat. It’s the Belgian car-free RAVeL (old train track transformed into cycling path) It’s perfect for getting a steady rhythm, stretch the legs and fill up the lungs with fresh air from the surrounding threes and fields.
Church out of Gouvy and the RAVeL between Gouvy and Bastogne
The town of Bastogne has some WW2 related history and it’s also a good spot for a mid morning coffee brake or lunch. It’s the right place for getting supplies for the next 70k.
Bastogne
From Bastogne to the Luxembourgish border
After Bastogne the route gets quickly into some beautiful landscapes, delightful gravel roads framed by charming fields, hills and threes. Very quiet. One of the nicest gravel roads I’ve ridden in Belgium so far.
Luxembourg
The last 40 k are mostly in the countryside of Luxembourg. The route becomes slightly hilly and that can be felt in the legs at this point. The bike paths are in excellent condition but the surroundings are more populated than in the Belgian parts.
Luxembourg
Arlon
Overall this is a really enjoyable ride, with three very characteristic sections:
Gouvy to Bastogne 30k: Straight, flat and fast ride on smooth RAVels
Bastogne to the Luxembourgish border 30k: Pleasant gravel roads surrounded by beautiful nature
Luxembourg and Arlon 40k: Slightly hilly paved bike paths crossing a mix of country side and small towns
The logistics are easy coming from any major city in Belgium or Luxembourg. Gouvy is accessible with the train line Liège - Luxembourg city. Arlon is accessible with the train line Brussels - Luxembourg city.
Want to discover more cycling routes in this area ? check this beautiful 215k ride in Luxembourg
