The Ardennes Monster

The Ardennes Monster takes riders deep into the rugged landscapes of the Belgian Ardennes, linking legendary cycling climbs, forest roads and remote valleys in one of Belgium’s toughest ultra-distance challenges. Created by the team behind The Conquest of the Ardennes, the event combines demanding elevation profiles with a route designed to push riders well beyond conventional road cycling distances.

The flagship Origin route covers 1,050 km with 20,000 metres of elevation gain, crossing four countries: Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and France. Riders can also choose the 500 km Everest route, featuring 8,848 metres of climbing, or shorter options of 300 km with 5,300 metres and 200 km with 3,400 metres.

The courses explore the hilly terrain of the Ardennes, drawing inspiration from the legendary climbs of Liège–Bastogne–Liège while venturing onto lesser-known roads and valleys. Highlights include the forests and rolling landscapes around Namur, Huy, Durbuy, La Roche-en-Ardenne, Bouillon and Dinant. The longer route adds the challenging terrain of the neighbouring Eifel region.

The event is ridden continuously, day and night, without outside assistance or drafting. The longer distances include staffed checkpoints where riders can replenish supplies and take a break, but participants remain responsible for managing their own equipment, nutrition and progress. With a 100-hour limit on the full route, The Ardennes Monster is a serious test of endurance and resilience.

Distances: 200 km / 300 km / 500 km / 1,050 km
Elevation gain: 3,400 m / 5,300 m / 8,848 m / 20,000 m
Location: Belgian Ardennes, Belgium
Start / Finish: Namur, Belgium
Terrain: Predominantly paved roads, rolling countryside and forest roads
Longest route: Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and France
Time limits: No limit on 300 km; 48 hours on 500 km; 100 hours on 1,050 km
Format: Self-supported ultra-distance cycling challenge