Saturday afternoon we left our place and headed towards Brugge, with rain pouring down heavily. Fortunately the rain stopped before we reached the city, so we were able to enjoy the afternoon walking around the city. Our first stop was at Hotel De Tassche, just behind the Market Square. We were so happy with our room...I absolutely love the exposed beams in the ceiling.
Our room in Hotel De Tassche
After we brought our bags up to our room, we headed out for a stroll around the city. We spent most of our time in the Minnewater area, enjoying Waffles at a modern tea room called Tonka. Later on in the evening we had a spectacular dinner at The Olive Tree not far from the Market Square. In Brugge it's recommended that you stay far away from the restaurants in the square, this one just past the main square is definitely an exception. The restaurant was filled with mainly locals, and most tables were already reserved...we were lucky that we got a table without a reservation (we did eat earlier than the typical local crowd does).
Sunday morning we were up bright and early, walked the few steps to the market square to enjoy the ambiance of the start of the race. The square was packed, excitement all around!!! After the race start, we headed off to the town of Kluisbergen to see the first climb of the day. The race was for the most part together, with a small group just a few seconds off the front of the race. At this part in the race, the weather was nice and warm, it was looking like the day would be very calm for the riders. After the race had passed through town, we headed back to the car and drove over to the very intense Koppenberg, a climb that has proved to be very decisive (for those stuck at the back of the group) whenever it was included in the course route.
The winner Stijn Devolder climbing the Kluisbergen
With no problems at all, we arrived at the notorious Koppenberg. The weather was fine, excitement everywhere, not to mention empty beer glasses. Everyone was jammed into the beer tent to watch the race unfold on the two televisions set up inside. As the race got closer and closer, the skies got darker and darker until the hail and snow flurries started falling. Things were not looking pretty on the Koppenberg. But to be truthful wet and muddy cobbles is what this climb is all about, it's what separates the great cyclists from the average professionals. Fortunately for the racers, the skies cleared up in time for the race to arrive at the foot of the climb, however the road was still very wet, and messy making the climb that much harder.
After sliding our way down the sides of the hill (thankfully no muddy butts!!) we hopped in the car, and drove over to the Muur in Geraardsbergen, the 16th of the 17 climbs of the day, is often the decisive point in the race for the winner. Yesterdays race winner had already been decided by the time the racers reached the Muur. Stijn Devolder climbed solo, not more than 20 seconds before a group including most of the race favourites. The race passed by in groups, most riders facial expressions showing defeat, as only the RVV can do. We then stood outside a television shop and watched the remainder of the race from the televisions in the window. We had a lot of fun, and can't wait for next weeks Paris-Roubaix or the Hell of the North.
Fabian Cancellara, and Tom Boonen
