Col de Haussire: 45km GPX route starting from La Roche-en-Ardenne | Ardenne Résidences

Col de Haussire

image

22 October 2026

Starting point

Centre de La Roche-en-Ardenne

Duration

2h

Difficulty

Difficult

File

Author

Jurgen Bricheux

A sporty epicurean in search of new trails and shared pleasures

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Col de Haussire: a cycling loop starting from La Roche

This 46.96 km route starting from La Roche-en-Ardenne offers a challenging loop through wooded landscapes, small villages, and legendary sections. It notably features the ascent of the Col de Haussire, one of the most formidable climbs in Belgium.

Route description

The start is from the centre of La Roche-en-Ardenne , to begin a first rolling section towards Cielle , with some nice slopes at the start via segments such as Cielle 65 Climb or Côte de la Route du Tram .

The route then follows a series of regular climbs and gradual descents, passing through iconic places like Dochamps , Beffe or Samrée , before tackling the climb of the Col de Haussire , considered the most difficult pass in Belgium.

Points of interest along the route

  • Col de Haussire : A famous cycling climb ranked among the most difficult in the country. A sustained and long gradient, it offers a clear view at the summit and a real sense of pride once conquered.
  • Ardennes forest landscapes : The route crosses large Ardennes forests, alternating shade and clearings.
  • Plateaus and secondary valleys : An alternation of gentle climbs and descents through the small villages and hamlets of the region.
  • Return via the Ourthe : At the end of the route, you follow the Ourthe valley again to return to La Roche, with superb views of the river.

Arrival at the Col de Haussire (© Ardenne Résidences)

Return to the starting point

The route naturally concludes with a descent back towards La Roche-en-Ardenne , after a final, more rolling section. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a break on a terrace or a well-deserved refreshment.

Col de Haussire: Key figures

  • Ascent of the Haussire :
  • Distance: 3.70 km
  • Elevation gain: +312 m
  • Average slope: 8.4%
  • Maximum gradient : up to 14.6% (in the central section)

💡 Fun fact : The Col de Haussire is often nicknamed "the toughest climb in Belgium" according to several cycling rankings. It even features in some versions of the "100 Cols" challenge as one of the toughest in the country.

(© strava.com)

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