UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships 2027: discover more of Ostend and Flanders

BANNER - Contour cyclocross Flanders_© Jelle Vermeersch
Cyclist carrying a bike up a sandy slope during a race, with spectators lining both sides in bright light.
From 29 to 31 January 2027, Ostend will be fully devoted to the 2027 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships. We'll certainly be delighted to welcome you to this wonderful city on the Flemish coast, but do make sure you stay on a little longer too. Here in Flanders, there definitely are a great many experiences to be hand for anyone wanting to do a bit more competitive cycling. Or maybe you can come back again later and discover Ostend and the Flemish coast in a completely different way. Either way, you'll definitely find a route that suits you here!

For those who like to pedal hard

The Flandrien Challenge is a real test. Can you conquer 59 iconic climbs and cobbled sections in less than 72 hours? If so, you will have earned that title of honour. Prefer to shift down a gear? Then choose a Cycling in Flanders (gravel) route that suits you. These take you past famous climbs such as Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg and Koppenberg. You can tackle them all year round, but in winter they will of course be a little harder to complete. Try these leg-breakers in warmer weather too: under the sun, with cosy cafés along the way and plenty of terraces for a short break. Would you rather spread your adventure over a few days? In that case, Ultimate Flanders 525 may well be something for you. This extensive bikepacking route will take you over 525 kilometres past climbs, cobbled sections and unforgettable cycling locations.

Ultimate Flanders 525
Cobblestone road marking for 'Koppenberg' climb, 550 m, with cyclist wheel entering from right.

For those who like easy-going cycling

Would you rather leave the racing to the professionals? Even then, discovering Flanders by bike or e-bike is still a wonderful experience. On and around the Flemish coast, you'll find beautiful, expansive and mainly flat landscapes. The Flanders' Finest Cycle Routes bring together all the beauty that Flanders has to offer. Green Ribbon Ostend sets you on your way in and around this magnificent city. The Lost ports of the Zwin route takes you from the Zwin Nature Park to historic Bruges and back again. In and around that same city of Bruges, the Castles Cycle Route is a lovely adventure. The Peace cycle route leads you past the In Flanders Fields memorials. These are just a few of the many adventures that will lead you to surprising landscapes, heritage, art and delicacies. Be sure to save a few for your next visit! Every time of year has its charms here, so do come back again!

Kastelenroute Brugge_© Kris Jacobs (10)
Two cyclists look over a pond at a large historic brick castle, surrounded by greenery.

Fancy even more CYCLING?

Dive into the rich history of cycling at KOERS, the Museum of Cycle Racing in Roeselare. Go on an interactive ride past unique trophies, legendary racing bikes, exciting action footage and colourful memorabilia. A real must for every cycling fan! And it is easy to reach by train too. 

Visit the KOERS Museum in Roeselare

For those who want to discover both the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships AND Ostend

The UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships course takes us past several highlights. It starts and finishes at the famous Wellington Racecourse. This winter, the riders will be showing off their horsepower there. The peloton then passes by the almost 100-year-old Thermae Palace hotel. This is seamlessly connected to the Royal Galleries. This covered walkway on the promenade was once built to protect well-to-do citizens from rain and sun. Today, some amazing exhibitions can be seen there. From there, the route shifts to the waterline of the North Sea. Paddling, but on two wheels. The UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships are a tasty amuse-bouche of everything there is to see in Ostend.

mud_© Jelle Vermeersch
Close-up of dark muddy water splashing with droplets frozen midair against a blurred background.

For those who cannot get enough of Ostend, the city by the sea

Enjoying a city break in this pearl by the North Sea is a wonderful experience. Let's begin at the James Ensor House. This famous Flemish Master is inseparably linked to his city. In his former home, you can discover his life and work. A little further on, you will find the Fish Market, a special piece of culinary heritage. There, you can taste all the delicacies from the North Sea, fresher than fresh. Of course, you'll also find shrimp croquettes, mussels with chips and other specialities in the city’s many restaurants. Outside the centre, the open-air museum Atlantikwall Raversyde is well worth a visit. There, you can walk amongst the remains of the German defensive line from the Second World War. And this is only the tip of the iceberg. Looking for more inspiration? Here you will find a well-filled two-day stay in Ostend. 

Customers queue at a seafood counter with fish on ice behind glass in an indoor market.

For those who want to explore the Flemish coast

The North Sea is more than just Ostend. For anyone who wants to discover the Flemish coast, the coast tram is a best friend they can rely on. The longest tram line in the world runs along the entire Flemish coast. Travelling to the Zwin Nature Park is therefore very easy. This nature area that moves to the rhythm of ebb and flow, enjoys revealing its secrets. A few stops further and you'll discover the fashionable Knokke-Heist. Or fishing life in Zeebrugge. Or the Belle Époque district in De Haan, where Albert Einstein once stayed. And all that beauty is just the beginning. Got the taste for more? Set off on a journey of discovery along the Flemish coast. 

Zwin Knokke_© Piet De Kersgieter (31)
Interior of the visitor centre with info desks, display cases and two visitors walking to the shop.

For art lovers

Who says that top-level sport and art don't go hand in hand? Artistic souls will find plenty to enjoy here too. Just ask the pioneering artist James Ensor. You can pay a visit to his Ensor House. In search of even more beauty? Just look around you. All of Ostend is a canvas. Street art festivalThe Crystal Ship has left dozens of artworks around the city in recent years. Some of them are monumentally large, whilst others are hidden away in a corner. Beaufort Sculpture Park continues that artistic line to the rest of the coast. This extensive open-air museum is a remnant of the art triennial of the same name. You can admire more than 40 works there, spread along the North Sea coast. And yet more items of beauty will soon be added. Right now, the North Sea is now getting ready for Beaufort 27, from March onwards.

Het James Ensorhuis_© Toerisme Oostende vzw - James Ensorhuis - Nick Decombel Fotografie (1)
Eclectic living room with colorful mural, ornate fireplace, blue wallpaper, and mannequin in red robe at round table.

Flanders Fields, for those who want to know more about the First World War

In cyclo-cross, the fastest wins, but in ordinary life, taking things more calmly can sometimes be better. Those seeking tranquillity will find it in Flanders Fields. During the First World War, this was one of the main battlefields and the memory of those dark days still lives on there today. This entire region is dotted with cemeteries, monuments and memorials. Tyne Cot Cemetery and the Menin Gate in Ypres are well-known examples. The Menin Gate still provides visitors with a moving experience every day. Every evening, the sound of a bugle rings out there: The Last Post. A poignant tribute to those who fell to secure our freedom.   

Tyne Cot Cemetery Passendale - Zonnebeke_© Jean Paul Bardelot 2024 (12)
Two people walk along a memorial wall above rows of white gravestones in a cemetery under a blue sky.

For those who want to learn more about Belgian Beer and culinary experiences

The centuries-old craftsmanship of our brewers forms the foundation of Belgian beer culture, which is unique in the world. No wonder UNESCO recognises it as intangible cultural heritage. You can taste the passion when visiting breweries such as ’t Koelschip, the polder terrace at Sint-Idesbald Brewery, or at the bar of an authentic beer pub such as Den Toogoloog. Because heritage can simply be delicious too. Need even more inspiration? In the list below, you'll certainly find what you are looking for.  

brouwerij St Idesbald_© Simon Tackaert (1)
Outdoor cafe patio with people seated at tables under umbrellas and string lights on a sunny day.
't Koelschip Oostende
Cardboard cutout of a blond man with "Blonde Kuif" beer in a bar, with bottles and glasses in the background.
Toerisme Oostende vzw

’t Koelschip

This city brewery in the heart of Ostend is a haven for adventurous beer lovers. It also welcomes you for brewery visits, tastings and workshops.
brouwerij St Idesbald_© Simon Tackaert (2)
Man on ladder checks stainless steel brewing kettles above bar, with hoses and hanging hops

Sint-Idesbald Brewery

Once a pigsty, now a brewery. Sint-Idesbald brews high-quality beer in the Belgian style. The cosy café overlooks both the polders and the brewing installation.
Brouwerij B Blankenberge_© Jan Darthet
Barman wearing a hat pours beer into a glass behind a wooden bar with the "Brouwerij B" logo.

Brouwerij B

The B stands for beer, brothers and Blankenberge, the home town of this recently founded brewery. Jan and Pieter also welcome you for guided tours and tastings.

Discover even more of Flanders

The Cyclocross World Championships open the door to 101 adventures on the Flemish coast. But Flanders beyond that will also satisfy your appetite for arts and heritage and the good life. Our Flemish art cities such as Bruges and Ghent are just an easy train ride away. Find plenty of ideas for your city trip here. Like to start planning already? Our AI travel guide will be happy to plot out an itinerary for you. That trip to Flanders is bound to be a success. 

Other sites you may be interested in

Map of Flanders

Travelling to, in and around Flanders

Because of its compactness, Flanders is an easy place to travel to, in and around. all of Flanders' cities are within reach of each other and easily accessible
Het James Ensorhuis 1_© Toerisme Oostende vzw - James Ensorhuis - Nick Decombel Fotografie
A child visits the James Ensor House and spends a day following in the footsteps of James Ensor, a patron in Ostend.

A day in James Ensor's Ostend

James Ensor, the artistic patron saint of Ostend. His name is linked to this coastal city. A day in Ostend is a dream introduction to Ensor's universe;