About us
Heathland Gravel stands as the premier Unbound Gravel Qualifier in Europe, situated in the enchanting Flemish province of Limburg. We're taking you to the beautiful Terhills in Maasmechelen for some of the best gravel roads of Flanders. The course features timed sections, offering a minimum of 50 participants the coveted opportunity to qualify for Unbound Gravel, thé bucket list gravel event in the world.
The collaboration between Flanders Classics and Life Time Events is an exceptional one between two companies which both have a substantial track record in event organisation. Even more, it's the first time two main event organisers, in Belgium and the USA, choose to join forces on a new gravel project. A deliberate choice says Flanders Classics CEO Tomas Van Den Spiegel: “By combining our experience, we are building a unique concept. Unbound Gravel in Emporia, Kansas is for gravellers what Kona in Hawaii is for the triathlete. A sporting goal and an exceptional experience. And it is filling up fast; Heathland Gravel is the only official European qualifier for Unbound Gravel the next year. In Maasmechelen, at least 50 participants will be able to claim their spot, either based on performance or as a lucky winner. Everyone has a chance. Very exceptional.”
Life Time Events is also looking ahead enthusiastically. “We are honored to be working with such a prestigious partner as Flanders Classics to expand the accessibility to Life Time Unbound Gravel through the first European qualifying event", said Kimo Seymour, President of Life Time Events. “Tomas and the entire Flanders Classics team produce incredible cycling experiences, and we are excited to grow the reach and appeal of Unbound Gravel to Europe.”
Unbound Gravel in Kansas is for gravellers what Kona in Hawaii is for the triathlete. Heathland Gravel in 2024 was the very first and moreover the only official European qualifier
We are excited to grow the reach and appeal of Unbound Gravel to Europe
Heathland Gravel will be pitching its tents in Limburg in the shadow of the Maasmechelen mine shaft. A three-day event, including social rides, a unique gravel atmosphere, live music and of course a fantastic race right through Hoge Kempen National Park on the final day, awaits on the Terhills domain. “We have found in Maasmechelen what a gravel event and course needs”, says Flanders Classics CEO Tomas Van Den Spiegel. “From the start site, we immediately dive into the greenery for which the province of Limburg is so well known. We head over the slagheaps to the Mechelse Heide and the tourist attraction Cycling through the Heathland. This also explains the choice of the name Heathland Gravel, because ‘heide’ is Dutch for ‘heathland’.”
How to claim one of the minimum 50 coins?
If you want to have a chance, you have to take part in the longest distance of Heathland Gravel (160 km). 50% of the coins to be allocated are distributed on the basis of performance on the course, depending on times on the timed segments. The other 50% will be allocated at random. In other words, anyone who participates in the qualifier distance has a chance to secure a coin for Kansas.
There is also plenty for those who are not looking for an American gravel adventure, but just want to enjoy the best gravel paths that Limburg has to offer. In addition to the qualifier distance (160 km), courses of 110 km and 70 km will also be offered.
In the future, the intention is to expand the number of official qualifiers for Unbound Gravel internationally. The second edition of Heathland Gravel takes place on 8, 9 and 10 August 2025.
Interested in joining forces in this unique event? Be part of the official European qualifier for the number one bucket list gravel event in the world. Download our partner brochure, get in touch and let's build an unforgettable gravel experience together!