The Ardennes Monster – Wild Boar

The Ardennes Monster is one of Belgium’s toughest self-supported ultra-distance cycling events, taking riders deep into the relentless climbs, forests, and valleys of the Ardennes. Created by the team behind The Conquest of the Ardennes, the event is designed for cyclists who thrive on steep gradients, endless elevation, and the challenge of pushing their limits.

The flagship Origin route covers approximately 1,050 kilometres with an impressive 20,000 metres of elevation gain, starting and finishing in Namur, Belgium. Riders traverse Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and France, linking iconic climbs from classics such as Liège–Bastogne–Liège with hidden forest roads, remote valleys, and the demanding hills of the Eifel region. Shorter 500 km (8,848 m) and 300 km (5,300 m) options are also available for riders seeking a different level of challenge.

The Ardennes Monster follows a strict self-supported philosophy. Riders are responsible for their own navigation, accommodation, food, and mechanical repairs, with no outside assistance or drafting permitted. Staffed checkpoints provide route validation, but success depends on careful pacing, resilience, and smart decision-making over multiple days.

With its relentless climbing, legendary cycling roads, and rugged scenery, The Ardennes Monster is far more than a test of endurance. It is a journey through one of Europe’s most iconic cycling regions, where every climb brings riders closer to earning their place among those who have conquered the Monster.