Event organizer Golazo is known for Tour of Flanders sportives, LBL Challenge, Marmotte Series and Gran fondo Vosges, among others. They are also recognized for their top-notch sportives in the Netherlands, including the hidden gem, the Ronde van Nijmegen. We set out for a recon. On the inaugural summer day, editor Yda and I embarked on an official reconnaissance of the Ronde van Nijmegen course.
Photograph: Even the smallest farm roads look great paved.
The Ronde van Nijmegen offers three distances, with the longest promising a comprehensive experience. Additionally, it serves as an excellent preparatory ride for the upcoming major gran fondos. Both of us are venturing into this cycling territory for the first time, eagerly anticipating surprises along the way. Are you ready to be surprised too? Then delve into our journey, as we have an enticing special offer in store.
The official starting point is Park Brakkenstein in the southern outskirts of Nijmegen. After parking nearby, we set off early in the morning. The terrain immediately presents us with undulating false flats. Approximately ten kilometers in, we traverse through the German town of Wyler, encountering a challenging climb along a narrow trail. This uphill battle warms our legs instantly. Progressing through Kleefsebaan, we head to Beek to tackle the notorious Oude Holleweg, renowned as one of the toughest climbs in the Netherlands beyond Limburg: a grueling one-kilometer ascent with a maximum gradient of 14%. Immediately following is another demanding climb: the Beekmandalseweg in Ubbergen. Within the first twenty kilometers, we conquer roughly five climbs.
Photo: The Oude Holleweg with a maximum gradient of 14%.
Leaving the urban landscape behind, we venture into quieter realms via Waaldijk and the Ooipolder. Soon, we find ourselves traversing tranquil polder landscapes, only reminded of our German whereabouts by the road signs. The roads, resembling billiard tables, boast minimal traffic. Initially flat, the terrain gradually becomes undulating, surprising us with regular climbs within village confines. Though not overly treacherous, these ascents demand active engagement from our legs.
Photo: Regularly a surprising climb in one of the villages.
Once across the Dutch-German border, we encounter the picturesque Reichswald, a highlight of the journey. This beautiful forest boasts a delightful undulating path, offering glimpses of wildlife, although eluding our sight. However, we do catch sight of numerous birds of prey. This renowned area proves to be a cycling paradise in all its forms.
Picture: A lovely rolling track through the Reichswald.
Exiting the Reichswald, undulations persist momentarily before transitioning into flat expanses amid agricultural landscapes. With a brisk wind challenging our progress, we appreciate the well-paved nature of even the narrowest farm roads. Noteworthy are the bike paths paralleling busier thoroughfares, albeit narrow, they suffice. After covering 105 kilometers, we reach Kalkar, once known for a nuclear power plant constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, now repurposed into the amusement park Wunderland Kalkar. The bustling square invites us to unwind at a terrace for refreshments and a photo opportunity in front of the Rathaus. During the sportive, such breaks aren't necessary, thanks to multiple supply stations offering fresh fruits, cookies, and sports nutrition.
Photo: A photo shoot in front of the Rathaus.
A sixty-kilometer journey lies ahead as we embark on our return to Nijmegen. Post-Kalkar, undulations punctuate the landscape briefly before transitioning into a predominantly flat trajectory across agricultural expanses. Despite our predominantly peaceful journey, the relentless wind takes its toll on our stamina. Progressing through hamlets, we soon cross back into Dutch territory, greeted by the Sint Jansberg, affectionately dubbed Col du Saint Jean, albeit with some exaggeration. Near Groesbeek, we delve into the forest for a final ten kilometers of undulating terrain. After covering 167 kilometers and climbing eight hundred meters, we triumphantly cross the finish line.
Photo: Through the forest for the final ten rolling kilometers.
The Tour of Nijmegen offers a kaleidoscope of experiences amidst breathtaking surroundings. From challenging climbs to rolling hills and serene flats, it offers a diverse terrain for every cyclist. Whether undertaken as a season opener or the pinnacle event, the Ronde van Nijmegen promises an unrivaled experience.
To commemorate our course reconnaissance, we're extending a limited-time offer of 25% discount on select start tickets. Hurry, visit our CycloWorld SHOP before they vanish!
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