14 August 2025
On the weekend of 11 and 12 October 2025, South Limburg will set the stage for the official UCI Gravel World Championships. Organised by Golazo in cooperation with the Province of Limburg and the Municipalities of Beek, Beekdaelen and Maastricht, the event promises a challenging and atmospheric race on a course that is emblematic of the South Limburg landscape.
Elite riders, qualified amateurs, and participants in the “Ground of Gravel Ride” recreational tour will all encounter a mix of gravel tracks, forest trails, country roads, and short climbs in the South Limburg hills. The course consists of a loop of around 50 kilometres through the Municipalities of Beek, Beekdaelen, Voerendaal, Meerssen and Valkenburg, before heading towards the finish in Maastricht. Depending on age and gender category, riders will complete the loop one, two, or three times. For the recreational ride, both the start and finish will be at VV Alfa Sport in Beekdaelen.
The route includes four climbs, ranging from 500 to 1,500 metres in length, with several steep sections. The toughest stretch is found in the final loop towards Maastricht on the Bronsdalweg, where riders face more than one kilometre at an average gradient of 8%, mostly on gravel. Along the way, the course passes iconic landmarks of the region. Highlights include riding through Kasteel Wijnandsrade, past country estate Vaeshartelt, and by the Sint Hubertus watermill in Beek. Also unique is the finish over gravel paths on the Groene Loper into Maastricht – a boulevard for walking and cycling – where the first rider to cross the line will be crowned world champion.
Bram Tankink, co-designer of the course:“For me, gravel is the ultimate expression of freedom on the bike. With this route, we wanted to combine that freedom with sporting challenge and a strong connection to the landscape. The untapped gravel tracks of the Municipalities of Beek and Beekdaelen, combined with the Groene Loper in Maastricht, create a special playground: the terrain is varied, the surroundings breathe cycling history, and every stretch tells its own story. We have designed a course that not only brings out the best in the riders but also takes them along the most beautiful, raw, and characterful gravel sections in the region. It will be a World Championships to remember – for both pros and recreational riders.”
Minimising impact
While the rugged South Limburg landscape is a beloved playground for cyclists, it is equally valued as a recreational space for its residents. Building a sustainable relationship with the Limburg landscape, its residents, and local businesses is a key priority. The organisation of the Gravel World Championships is working closely with the Municipalities of Beek, Beekdaelen, and Maastricht to minimise disruption to local communities. In the coming weeks, all residents, businesses, and farmers along the route will receive a letter outlining the event’s impact on accessibility in their area. A dedicated page on the event website will detail traffic measures, alternative parking, and other practical information. In September, special information evenings will be held for residents to ask questions directly.
Shimano United In Gravel Expo
Alongside the 2025 Bolero UCI Gravel World Championships, the Shimano United In Gravel Expo will serve as the meeting point for everyone active in or curious about the gravel scene. At the start location in Beek, visitors can explore leading and local brands, discover and test their latest products – from bikes and accessories to high-tech gear. Throughout the weekend, the expo will offer plenty of opportunities to meet experts and fellow gravel fans, enjoy food and drinks, and get live views of the race.
