Ever cycled through four different countries? Why not join us for a truly inspirational experience. This four countries challenge is a four-day route, covering approximately 340 miles, taking you through beautiful English villages, into some of Europe’s most historical cities, passed Dunkirk and Bruges and finishing at the incredible city of Amsterdam. Passing canals, historical landmarks and breath-taking scenery is just a taste of what to expect on this event. If you are looking to achieve something different, this event is for you! This ride is a charity challenge, providing supporters with the opportunity to raise sponsorship and awareness for Halton Haven Hospice.
Dates and Prices
Date of Event
28 May – 1 Jun 2024
Duration
5 Days (4 cycling)
Difficulty Rating
3/8 (click here for details)
Registration Fee
£150*
Event Fee
N/A
Min. Sponsorship
£2,000**
*The Registration Fee is non-refundable, see our Terms & Conditions.
**The Minimum Sponsorship level set by Halton Haven Hospice is to be raised over and above the registration fee.
If you would like learn more about Halton Haven Hospice and their charitable causes, please click here
Itinerary
Day 1 – Canterbury to Bruges
Approximate cycling distance 138km (86 miles)
Your challenge begins early in the morning, heading east through country lanes and stunning villages, taking in the striking English countryside of rural Kent, towards Sandwich. Once we reach the sea line we head south continuing along the picturesque coast, passing through Deal and on to Dover. We then board the morning ferry to Dunkirk, completing stage one of the first day.
Stage two begins in France, as we head through Dunkirk. Steeped in history from WW2 historical events, we cycle through some remarkable terrain with constant reminders of events gone by and head up the coast towards the cosmopolitan city of Ostend. Finally, onto our first nights stop in Bruges. A wonderful city distinguished by its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. You should have plenty of time to explore the many sights!
Day 2 – Bruges to Grobbendonk
Approximate cycling distance 152km (94 miles)
After a good night’s rest and hearty breakfast we head east for a full days riding in Belgium, towards the university town and cultural hub of Ghent; as we cycle through country lanes and meander alongside many beautiful canals and waterways that Belgium has to offer…such a tranquil experience!
Continuing eastwards towards Dendermonde, we continue cycling remaining on the charming country lanes, and on to our second nights stop in Grobbendonk, located in the province of Antwerp. Grobbendonk was home to Rik Van Looy, a former professional cyclist of the post war period, nicknamed the King of Classics. He was twice world champion and the first cyclist to win all five “monuments’: the most prestigious one-day!
Day 3 – Grobbendonk to Vianen
Approximate cycling distance 126km (78 miles)
With two great days behind us, we start heading north into Holland, renowned for its cycle friendly attitude. So friendly in fact, that at roundabouts, those using pedal power have priority!
As we continue on our journey skirting around Eindhoven, the fifth largest town in the country, sampling some of the best cycle ways on offer, along canals, passing the odd windmill; we head through sleepy villages towards s-Hertogenbosch continuing towards the medieval old towns of Utrecht, and eventually reaching, Vianen, our stop for the evening.
Day 4 – Vianen to Amsterdam
Approximate cycling distance 126km (78 miles)
Leaving our hotel we embark on a short ferry crossing and then on towards the fantastic city, and event finish, Amsterdam; continuing along on charming canals, beautiful country lanes and even over a 400 metre cycle bridge! We avoid the hustle and bustle of the busy city, despite fast approaching as the route keeps you on picturesque canal lanes and cycle paths right through to the finish line. You may be feeling the effects of your saddle but that is soon forgotten as you celebrate and wallow in the feeling of exhilaration as you look back at what’s been achieved!
Day 5 – Departure Day
After a leisurely breakfast, the event comes to an end. Your bikes will be safely transported back to the UK leaving you hassle free to continue with your onward arrangements whether homeward bound or enjoying the amazing delights that vibrant Amsterdam has to offer.
Chapeau Events reserves the right to change the route or itinerary for safety reasons should local conditions dictate.
What’s Included?
• Full bike transport to Canterbury and from Amsterdam back to the UK if required.
• Four nights’ B&B accommodation will be provided by Travel Counsellors, except for accommodation in Canterbury immediately before the event Monday 27th May; you will need to arrange independently if you are travelling outside Canterbury, as it’s an early start on Tuesday morning. A room only booking is adequate as you will be provided with an “on the go” breakfast that morning followed by a hot meal once on the ferry to Dunkirk (20 miles in).
• All meals starting from breakfast on day one to breakfast on day five.
• Complete transport of luggage between hotels during the ride
• Full trip support including mechanics, first aid, drivers, outriders and full route support
• Water stops
• GPS Routes with navigational left and right turns.
• Celebration meal in Amsterdam at the end of your ride.
What’s Excluded?
• Personal transport to route start in Canterbury and from route finish in Amsterdam
• Pre-event accommodation as mentioned above for Monday 27th May.
• A bicycle
• Personal travel insurance
• Drinks, personal items or entry to any optional tourist sites you may wish to visit.
What food is included and does it cater for all diets?
Breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be provided as part of the event package, starting with breakfast on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on day 5. In addition, we will provide refreshments at each cycle checkpoint of which there will be up to 2 each day, in addition to lunch of course and consisting of tea/coffee, water, juices and high-energy snacks. We can cater for all special dietary requirements provided you let us know well in advance of the trip; however, if you have unique dietary requirements it’s advised that you bring some of your favourite snacks with you for riding, as choice can be limited across European countries.
What’s unique about Chapeau…why should I choose you?
Our events are tailored to you…our team have physically driven and assessed every mile of the route to ensure the safest and best possible route for your challenge, so rest assured you are in the safest hands. All our routes are specifically tailored with you in mind.
How fit do I need to be?
This event is completely achievable for all levels of experience, whether you are a novice, intermediate or experienced cyclist, as long as you are committed to putting in the relevant training needed depending on your level. Chapeau rates this event a difficulty level 3 out of 8, which we class as “moderate” with longer days of saddle time and occasional steep descents/ascents on day one. You will be in the saddle for upward of 70 miles a day for 4 consecutive days, so you should ensure, as a minimum that you are comfortable riding a 60-70 mile day and have achieved this regularly before you leave for the trip. The profile on day one will be undulating, so you will need to include some hilly rides in your training, especially if you are a novice cyclists. Please contact us on the email below if you would have any questions regarding training tips. We design our challenges so that everyone can go at their own pace; this is not a race. For further information regarding how we rate our challenges click here
Who will be there to support me during the event?
Your trip will be led by experienced Chapeau Events crew. Our crew are selected for their experience in cycling events around the world, their friendliness and approachability, sense of humour and ability to safely and effectively deal with any situation that arises. Our crew leaders are also trained in expedition first-aid. You are in very safe hands with the Chapeau Events crew.
The number of crew and support vehicles looking after you will depend on the final size of your group, but the team will be looking after every aspect of your trip whether that’s transporting your luggage, ensuring your route is well-marked, sorting out any mechanical problems or giving you a lift in our back vehicle – our “Love bus”. At Chapeau Events we pride ourselves on our high crew: cyclist ratio and believe it leads to greater trip enjoyment as well as excellent trip safety.
Will I be safe?
Your safety, and that of the rest of the group, is our highest priority. Our trips are designed and planned with safety in mind. Your crew will be equipped with emergency mobile phones, first-aid kits and other safety apparatus where necessary. They always have access to our 24-hour emergency back-up in the UK. Our leaders are responsible for safety on the trip and will make any changes to the itinerary they deem necessary should local conditions dictate. Pre-trip administration – such as compulsory medical questionnaires and travel insurance – is all done with your safety in mind.
What happens to my luggage each day?
Our support vehicles are with the group all of the time. All luggage and spares will be carried in them as we travel to each destination. On reaching our hotels, at the end of each day, you will hand over your bike for safe overnight keeping and collect your luggage. Each morning, you will hand over your luggage and collect your bike. Obviously space is limited and hard-sided luggage is not suitable, so it is essential that your kit is packed in a soft sailing bag, rucksack or expedition kitbag, weighing up to 20kg max.
What insurance will I require?
It is a requirement of entry that you have adequate insurance to cover your participation on the event. Please ensure your policy lists cycling as an activity covered and also covers you for medical, cancelation and theft, to name a few. We will require a copy of valid insurance before travel.
Is travel, to start of route in Canterbury and from end in Amsterdam, included?
No…you are responsible for your own travel arrangements to the start of the event in Canterbury and return travel from Amsterdam back to UK. Chapeau will, however ensure your bike is safely transport to and from the event if required, allowing you the freedom for free time in either fabulous cities. Perhaps a relaxing day in Canterbury before you embark on your adventure or exploring the wonderful sights Amsterdam has to offer, the choice is yours.
Will I receive further information?
Yes…a full detailed information pack will be issued following registration and before you set off for your event. In addition, pre-event support is always available, simply email us at cycle@chapeauevents.co.uk with your questions.