Amstel Gold Race

The crowds awating the second ascent of Gulperberg

The Amstel Gold Race, a cherished Dutch cycling event, attracts thousands of amateur riders and enthusiastic spectators for a weekend of celebration and competition. The nearby student city of Maastricht rounds off the experience off the bike with charming accommodation and a wide range of local food and drink.

A Prelude to Glory: The Amateur Race

On Saturday, the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as amateur cyclists of all ages lace up their shoes and prepare to tackle a route steeped in tradition. There's something for every level of cyclist. There's a range of options, from 60 km to the full 240 km route, which mimics the professional race. There are more than 30 short climbs, including iconic hills such as the Cauberg and Keutenberg. The steep gradients, with some summits reaching a gruelling 22%, will push your limits and test your stamina and ability to recover quickly. Almost entirely in Limburg, the only hilly region in the Netherlands, it's a carefully chosen course with many twists and turns.

But this race is about more than just numbers and metres to climb. It's about the spirit of the ride, the joy you share with your fellow cyclists and spectators. As you pedal through picturesque villages with charming brick houses and flowering fields, you'll be greeted by locals cheering you on like a pro. The atmosphere at the roadside is electric. Much like après-ski or King's Day, the Dutch make the Amster Gold Race a place of infectious positivity. The intoxicating smell of Dutch fries and local delicacies wafts through the air, eager to fuel your journey. You can't help but feel connected to something bigger, as if the whole community has come together to support you.

An Inspiring Spectacle: The Professional Race

With the amateur race behind you, the stage is set for the professionals on Sunday. Experience the thrill of watching the world's best riders light up the road, competing not just for a trophy, but for glory. Famous winners such as Mathieu van der Poel, 'Mr Cauberg' Philippe Gilbert or Eddy Merckx, whose presence (and victories, of course) have made the race a true classic. The feeling in the air is electric; a palpable excitement that only grows as the day progresses. As a spectator, you can choose to position yourself on one of the famous climbs, a prime spot to watch the riders climb with determination. Not only will you be able to see the riders pass by several times, but you can also immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere created by the locals. Many have turned their homes into festive viewing points, complete with music, food stalls serving Dutch fried snacks and cold beer, as the race's title sponsor suggests.

The collective joy, excitement and energy of the gathering crowd creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Every glimpse of a world-class cyclist is a reminder of the hard work, dedication and passion that goes into this remarkable sport. Even more so when you have tried to conquer part of the course yourself.

A Community Celebration

While the Amstel Gold Race is a cycling event, it is also a community celebration - a testament to the Dutch passion for cycling. Whether you're riding alongside amateurs or watching world-class athletes, expect to meet other cycling enthusiasts who want to share the experience. Soak up the sights, sounds and tastes, from enjoying a plate of bitterballen in Maastricht to raising a glass of Dutch beer at a celebratory roadside gathering.

 

Sign me up on the organizers’ website