Extra Brut Border Bash 4

Extra Brut Border Bash 4 – Turnhout, Belgium

• Date: 2026-09-20
• Location: Turnhout, Belgium
• Event Type: Gravel ride
• Distances: Goirle (55, 65 & 75 km), Hoogstraten (45, 65 & 75 km), Lichtaart (45, 65 & 85 km), Retie (25, 40, 65 & 75 km), Zoersel (45, 65 & 80 km)

The gravel ride Belgium, Extra Brut Border Bash, returns for its fourth edition, inviting riders to explore the serene borderlands around Turnhout. This gathering offers a journey into the quiet rhythms of the Kempen region, where the roads less traveled promise an unhurried connection with the landscape. It is an opportunity to find your own pace amidst the understated beauty of northern Belgium.

The event unfolds over several days, centered around Camping Baalse Hei, which transforms into a hub for gravel enthusiasts. With four distinct loops – Goirle, Hoogstraten, Lichtaart, and Zoersel – each featuring multiple distances, cyclists can craft their own adventure. For those seeking a deeper immersion, the challenge of connecting all four long loops for over 300 km in a single day beckons, a true test of endurance and spirit.

Each route is designed to expose riders to the unique character of the border region, navigating pathways that weave through forests, open fields, and along the gentle flow of waterways. Expect a mix of gravel under tyres, from well-maintained tracks to more secluded bridleways, all contributing to a rich and varied riding experience. The subtle shifts in scenery encourage a mindful approach to each pedal stroke.

Beyond the riding, the Extra Brut Border Bash cultivates a relaxed, communal atmosphere. The "Café Welkom op Wielen" bar, complete with wood-burning stoves, provides a warm gathering spot for sharing tales and camaraderie. Ample refueling opportunities await, including coffee at the start, extensive aid stations with waffles and fruit, and a celebratory finisher beer or soda with a hot dog.

Camping options, from tents to campervans and glamping, allow participants to fully embrace the weekend at Baalse Hei. Evenings are for storytelling, with speakers sharing their own gravel adventures, creating a sense of shared purpose and inspiration. It's an event designed for connection, both with the bicycle and with fellow riders.

The Turnhout area, with its blend of natural landscapes and quiet villages, offers a gentle backdrop for this gravel ride Belgium. The routes often flirt with the Dutch border, presenting ever so subtle changes in scenery and atmosphere. It is a region known for its sand paths and forests, providing an authentic gravel experience perfect for reflection and discovery on two wheels. Find more details on the official event website.

Whether undertaking a shorter excursion or embarking on the 300 km odyssey, Extra Brut Border Bash is an invitation to slow down, absorb the surroundings, and embrace the simple joy of riding gravel. It's a weekend where the pursuit of adventure is balanced with moments of comfort and community, leaving a lasting impression of the quiet beauty discovered on the bike.