![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/301648123/mont-des-cats-3.webp)
The Ultimate West-Vlaanderen Challenge
A road cycling route starting from Merkem
Embark on an epic 115 km road cycling journey through West-Vlaanderen
Map
![Map miniature of "The Ultimate West-Vlaanderen Challenge" cycling inspiration in Prov. West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/merkem/road/368086.webp)
This demanding road cycling route spans across 115 km and includes 341 meters of ascent. Starting from Merkem, the route takes you through various towns and villages, including Pilkem, WO2 Bunker, Ploegsteert, Aubers, La Gorgue, Merris, Mont des Cats, Poperinge, and concludes at Luigem. Expect challenging climbs, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks along the way.
road
115 km
341 m
Savage
Route profile
Highlights on the route
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Start: Merkem Village centerMerkem: Discover the serene beauty and cycling-friendly routes of Merkem.
Merkem, located in the West-Vlaanderen province of Belgium, is a charming locality for road and gravel cyclists. The roads are relatively flat, making it suitable for beginners or those seeking leisurely rides. Merkem is surrounded by lush green fields and picturesque landscapes, offering cyclists a peaceful and enjoyable ride. The locality also provides easy access to the famous Kemmelberg climb, a challenging ascent that rewards cyclists with breathtaking views. With its scenic beauty and cycling-friendly atmosphere, Merkem is a recommended destination for cyclists of all levels.0 km
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MerkemVillageMerkem is a charming village with historic buildings and beautiful architecture.
7 km
7 km
PilkemHamletPilkem is a village with important historical significance, including World War I battlefields.
25 km
25 km
WO2 BunkerViewpointThe WO2 Bunker offers a glimpse into the region's war history and is worth exploring for history enthusiasts.
27 km
27 km
PloegsteertVillagePloegsteert is a village known for its rich World War I history and the Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing.
46 km
46 km
AubersVillageAubers is a small village with limited tourist attractions, but offers a peaceful and rural setting.
62 km
62 km
La GorgueVillageLa Gorgue is a scenic town located along picturesque waterways, perfect for a short rest stop or photo opportunity.
73 km
73 km
MerrisVillageMerris is a charming village known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic surroundings.
84 km
84 km
Mont des Cats164 mPeakMont des Cats is a famous hill with a religious abbey and offers stunning panoramic views from the top.
94 km
94 km
PoperingeTownPoperinge is a vibrant town known for its rich brewing tradition and offers excellent beer tasting experiences.
113 km
113 km
LuigemHamletLuigem is a small village known for its traditional Flemish architecture and beautiful rural landscapes.
115 km
115 km
Finish: Merkem Village centerMerkem: Discover the serene beauty and cycling-friendly routes of Merkem.
Cycling routes from Merkem:
Enchanting Villages Gravel Ride Discovering the Hidden Gems of West-Vlaanderen Scenic Gravel Adventure The Gravel Paradise The Rolling Hills Road Adventure Exploring the Gravel Roads of West-Vlaanderen The Ultimate West-Vlaanderen Challenge Roads and Landscapes Historical Journey The Ultimate Road Challenge
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Klerken](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/klerken-4.webp)
![Image of Boezinge](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/boezinge-5.webp)
![Image of Langemark](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/langemark-5.webp)
![Image of Houthulst](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/houthulst-5.webp)
![Image of Elverdinge](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/elverdinge-5.webp)
![Image of Poelkapelle](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/poelkapelle-5.webp)
![Image of Diksmuide](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/diksmuide-5.webp)
![Image of Esen](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/esen-4.webp)
![Image of Zarren](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/zarren-5.webp)