Welcome to Ronse, the tastemaker of the Flemish Ardennes
Cycling history
Those two previous regular World Championships are still etched in the memory of many a cycling fan because of their memorable final. In 1963, Benoni Beheyt triumphed ahead of his leader and favourite Rik Van Looy. In 1988, regional rider Claude Criquielion dramatically missed out on the rainbow jersey: he ended up in the barriers when he tried to pass Steve Bauer, resulting in Maurizio Fondriest becoming world champion. In addition, Ronse has already hosted the Belgian championship three times (1983, 1991 and 2007) with winners such as Lucien Van Impe, Benjamin Van Itterbeek and Stijn Devolder. Still today, Kruisstraat and Oudestraat are often the zone of truth in the Flemish spring classics.
We are very happy and proud to welcome the Para-cycling World Championships to Ronse. Our city, with its rich cycling tradition and warm, diverse community, is the perfect location for this championship.
Tourists are rightly proud of their beautiful city and fabulous Flemish Ardennes. Here, cycling enthusiasts discover a unique cycling paradise with wonderful climbs and fantastic views. Not only professional cyclists and enthusiasts often come here to train, but also people on electric bikes enjoy the beautiful scenery. Young and old, recreational or competitive, sporty and less sporty... will get hold of the cycling bug here.
Cycling trips can be perfectly combined with a visit to the vibrant city centre. Start your visit in the reception and experience centre the Hoge Mote: a heritage site where you will learn more about the Flemish Ardennes, the city's history, the Saint-Hermes cult and the Fiertelommegang. Transform yourself into a true textile expert during a guided tour of the Must - Museum of Textiles - with dozens of working looms. Discover the many impressive Art Deco houses or go for a walk in the historical quarter 'De Vrijheid' with the restored Saint-Hermes Basilica, the most recent Belgian basilica with the largest crypt in Western Europe, as the crowd puller.
Rest with a good night's sleep in one of our many nice places to stay and enjoy the pleasant terraces. The Grote Markt, where you will find a few protected cafés, is the place to be. Cosiness is the order of the day!