As the leaves fall, you may already be looking ahead to the challenges of 2025. The Volta NXT Classic is a wonderful sportive traditionally held on the first weekend of April. April 6, 2025, is the date. A few weeks ago, a team from CycloWorld went to Limburg to take a closer look at the route.
It’s late September, and a beautiful weekend awaits. Editor-in-chief Frank Jansen, reporter and local hero Marcel van Herten, guest rider Erwin Renkema, and yours truly meet in the picturesque town of Eijsden in the morning to explore the Volta NXT Classic route. We face 150 kilometers and 2400 meters of elevation gain, split evenly between Dutch Limburg and the Belgian Voer region. The organization provided us with the GPX file in advance. “The route isn’t 100% finalized, but it won’t change much,” they assured us.
Photo: Road broken up? Then through the meadow.
From the start, it’s a brisk uphill: Limburg welcomes you! Unlike the Amstel Gold Race, which highlights well-known climbs, the Volta NXT Classic features lesser-known climbs. We quickly make our way to Bergenhuizen. The Gulperberg from Gulpen is included, and although less famous than the approach from Partij, it’s a real calf-biter. From Vaals, we climb via the Epenerbaan towards the Vijlenerbos. The Loorberg is the only notable climb in this section. Overall, the first part offers a great mix of steep pitches, gradual climbs, and rolling roads.
Photo: Descent from Gulperberg.
Few things are more enjoyable than riding in Limburg on a beautiful late summer day at 20 degrees. Terraces abound, inviting you to stop for coffee and flan. Everyone we meet is cheerful and relaxed. A broken road doesn’t stop us; we simply detour through a meadow. We pause for lunch at the restaurant Het Hijgend Hert in the Vijlenerbos.
Photo: Lunch break.
After refreshing ourselves, we descend the Camerig and ride into the Belgian Voerstreek, crossing the border at the route's halfway point. Notably, the Belgian roads are in excellent condition. Even Frank, a known critic of road surfaces, is impressed. The Voer region is varied, with long gradual climbs mixed with short, steep calf-burners. The ascent to Rullen resembles the climb of the Doodeman.
Photo: Rullen.
By the Meuse River, it briefly becomes busier, but peace quickly returns as we head inland. Discovering the Voer region feels like uncovering a hidden gem, with rural roads and diverse climbs. The cobbled climb in Dalhem is a unique highlight, short yet satisfying.
Photo: Dalhem.
The Voer region has hardly a flat meter. As a grand finale, we face the beautiful Côte de Mortroux, followed immediately by Les Waides, a scenic climb with a challenging finish. From here, it’s mostly downhill to Eijsden. Upon entering the village, we bounce over cobblestones and brake at the cozy Vroenhof, which serves as the starting point and a fun after party venue for the sportive.
Photo: Les Waides, the final climbs.
We conclude that this is truly a demanding ride. The varied route through the Netherlands and Belgium, coupled with the surprising climbs, makes it a true bucket list event in the Netherlands. With various route options, there’s something for everyone.
The Volta NXT Classic offers more than just riding. On Saturday, a pro race—celebrating its 50th edition—is held. Formerly known as the Hel van het Mergelland, it’s a thrill to watch the pros. On Sunday, it’s time for the sportives. Not ready for a tough ride in early April? No problem; there are four distances to choose from:
A 75 km gravel tour with 1000 m+ of elevation is also available. With so many options, there’s no reason not to travel to Eijsden.
Want to secure a starting ticket in advance? CycloWorld has an exclusive 25% discount offer. Book here in the CycloWorld SHOP.
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