Because of its position overlooking Ypres and the West Flanders plain, Kemmelberg was the site of ferocious battles in World War 1 in which many thousands lost their lives. In recent times the climb has become the decisive point of the Gent-Wevelgem spring classic bike race.
Our ride starts in the village of Kemmel and gradually climbs towards the 25% cobbled section to the summit of the berg. We then descend and pass on the left the French war memorial and the Ossuary which contains the remains of 5,000 unknown soldiers. Then there is a fast, mainly flat, ride to the city of Ypres the centre of which we enter via the Lille Gate which pierces 17th century city ramparts. At the end of the cobbled Lille Street we enter the Market Place, pass the magnificent Cloth Hall and ride through the Menin Gate on which is inscribed the names of 55,000 missing WWI British and Commonwealth soldiers.
We ride back under the Menin Gate and finish in the Market Place where there is a meeting of the Lotus car owners club.