Grit! Wild Boar Route

The route conveniently starts and ends at Troast Coffee, a coffee roastery located in Evergem, Belgium. Parking is available at this location, making it an ideal starting point for your ride.

This route is rated as difficult and requires a very good physical condition. While the elevation gain is modest, the 130-kilometer length and the technical nature of its 70% unpaved sections, including narrow singletracks and frequent turns, contribute to its challenge. Cyclists may even need to walk their bikes in certain sections.

Based on the tour data, the estimated duration for completing the 130K route is around 9 hours and 15 minutes (33,309 seconds). This can vary significantly depending on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop.

The route showcases the diverse landscapes around Evergem, featuring a mix of farmland, water-side paths, and historical areas. You'll encounter highlights such as the Gravel Path Through Farmland, the scenic Liefkensweg Path Along the Water, and the tranquil Monastery Path. The starting point itself, Troast Coffee, is idyllically situated in the shadow of Wippelgem Castle.

The trail is best enjoyed during seasons with drier conditions to fully appreciate the unpaved sections. Spring and early autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and less mud, making for a more enjoyable gravel biking experience.

While the route passes through various landscapes, including some rural and natural areas, specific regulations for dogs on this particular gravel route are not explicitly stated. If you plan to bring a dog, it's advisable to keep them on a leash, especially near farmlands or in areas where wildlife might be present, and to check local municipality rules for Evergem regarding trail access with pets.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the Grit! Route Wild Boar 130K. The route traverses public paths and roads within the Meetjesland region, which is generally accessible without charge.

The terrain is highly varied, with a significant 70% of the 130-kilometer course being unpaved. You'll ride on a network of 'slow roads,' well-maintained dirt tracks, church paths, narrow singletracks, gravel shortcuts, and forest drives. While generally fast-rolling, the route is known for its 'thousand turns,' requiring frequent acceleration and navigation.

Yes, for those who find the 130K too challenging or time-consuming, a 100-kilometer version of the Grit! Route Wild Boar is also available on Komoot. This offers a similar experience with a reduced distance.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with several other official trails. Notable intersections include sections of the Via Scaldea (9% of the route), the F40 Fietssnelweg R4 Haven Gent - Zelzate (westzijde) (5%), and the MTB-route Lovendegem gemeenschappelijk rood+blauw (4%). You'll also cross smaller portions of various local paths and 'wegels' (small paths).

The route starts and ends at Troast Coffee, which is a coffee roastery and also features a restaurant, providing a convenient spot for pre-ride fuel or post-ride refreshments. Given the route's length, it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, but you may find opportunities for resupply in the villages you pass through.