Geraardsbergen

A historic town famous among cyclists as the home of the challenging Molenberg climb in the Tour of Flanders. Its elevated position offers views over the region, and it features a beautiful town center with Sint-Bartholomeuskerk and a quirky tradition of tossing cheese wheels during carnival.

Things to do

• Climb the Molenberg — Tackle the steep cobbled climb that has decided many editions of the Tour of Flanders, offering a punishing 110-meter elevation gain over just 1.8 kilometers.
• Visit Sint-Bartholomeuskerk — Explore this impressive Gothic church at the heart of the town center, featuring ornate stone carvings and a soaring interior that dominates Geraardsbergen's skyline.
• Walk the Town Center — Wander through the historic streets lined with Flemish architecture, charming cafes, and the lively atmosphere of this well-preserved medieval town.
• Ascend to the Viewpoint — Climb to the elevated vantage points around town to enjoy panoramic views across the rolling East Flanders countryside and regional landscape.
• Cycle the Tour of Flanders Route — Pedal sections of this legendary one-day race route that passes through Geraardsbergen, experiencing the same roads and climbs as professional cyclists.
• Visit Local Cycling Museums — Discover cycling heritage exhibits celebrating the region's deep connection to bike racing and the Tour of Flanders tradition.

Food to try

• Mattentaart — A local sweet pastry tart filled with a sweet cheese or almond filling that is a signature treat of Geraardsbergen bakeries.
• Kaasgooi Carnival Cheese — Sample the special cheese wheels tossed from the Sint-Bartholomeuskerk during the annual carnival tradition, a quirky local custom since 1958.
• Waterzooi — Savor this creamy Flemish stew made with vegetables and chicken or fish, a warming regional specialty found in local restaurants.
• Gentse Stoverij — Try this hearty Ghent-style beef stew braised in Trappist beer, a rich local favorite reflecting East Flanders culinary traditions.
• Belgian Frites and Stoofvlees — Enjoy crispy hand-cut fries paired with tender beef stewed in Belgian beer, a classic street food and casual dining staple throughout town.

Local customs & good to know

• Carnival Cheese Tossing Tradition — Witness or participate in the whimsical annual custom held on carnival Sunday where cheese wheels are thrown from the church tower to waiting crowds below.
• Cycling Culture Runs Deep — Respect the town's obsession with cycling and the Tour of Flanders; locals will warmly engage cyclists and cycling fans, and many attractions cater to this passion.
• Visit During Tour of Flanders Weekend — Plan your trip around early April when the Tour of Flanders passes through, bringing vibrant crowds, special events, and the full energy of this cycling celebration.
• Appreciate Flemish Hospitality — Locals appreciate respectful visitors who speak a few words of Dutch or French; beer and conversation are central to the social culture in cafes and restaurants.

Nearby

• Dender Valley — 14 km
• Aalst — 20 km
• Marolles District (Brussels and Capital Region) — 20 km
• Grand Place (Brussels and Capital Region) — 21 km