Iconic Places: The Cauberg, Amstel Gold Race's most famous climb

As the Classics head for the hills, for the Amstel Gold Race no ascent is more famous than the Cauberg climb

Philippe Gilbert attacks in the 2014 Amstel Gold Race

(Image credit: Watson)

“The Cauberg is a place Dutch bike fans have made their own; like Alpe d’Huez, only playing at home.” Leo Van Vliet, former TI Raleigh pro and now the organiser of the Amstel Gold Race.

Any hill in a predominantly flat country takes on a special significance. The Netherlands is flat, but one corner of it, Limburg in the far southeast, jutting into Belgium and bordering Germany, is the exception. Its highest point, Valsenberg, is only 322 metres above sea level, but Limburg occupies a lofty place in Dutch cycling.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1