Best Cycling Great Escapes 2023 by Best Cycling Great Escapes

GREAT ESCAPES Best Cycling

2023

TOP ROUTES

ACROSS CANADA, THE USA, CUBA, AND EUROPE TRAILS, LODGING, ATTRACTIONS, DINING ROAD, GRAVEL, MTB, E-BIKES HISTORIC CYCLING SPOTS

DISPLAY UNTIL SEPT. 30, 2023

$9.95

cyclinggreatescapes.com

PUBLIC WORKS ANDALUCIA

CONTENTS CANADA

U.S.A.

6 Cycling the Laurentians

30 Cycling the Adirondacks

8 Véloroute des Bleuets

34 Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop

10 Ride Quebec City

36 Chequamegon MTB Trails

16 Ontario’s Blue Coast 20 Cycling Beyond Paris to Ancaster 22 Hardwood Ski and Bike 24 Iconic Icefields Parkway 26 World-class Cycling in Fernie

CUBA 37 Cycling Adventures in Cuba EUROPE 38 EuroVelo’s Remarkable Cycling Routes

28 Cycling Vernon

Cover: All smiles while on a cycling adventure in Quebec’s Laurentians Photo: Laurentians Tourism Best Cycling Great Escapes is produced by Out the Door Enterprises Inc., 725 College Street, PO Box 31057, Toronto, ON, M6G 4A7, info@cyclinggreatescapes.com; www.cyclinggreatescapes.com. All rights reserved. None of the material herein may be reprinted or reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

3 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

18 Niagara Cycling Tours

GREAT ESCAPES WELCOME With so many fantastic cycling getaways waiting for you, we hope you’ll enjoy this new annual cycling travel guide. We’ve featured great escapes across North America, Europe and Cuba, to help you decide on your next cycling adventure. Featuring top cycling spots for road, MTB and gravel, we’ve included great information on routes and trails for riders of all abilities. Start dreaming about superb trails, superb landscapes, vineyards and heritage sites, along with fabulous dining, microbreweries and wineries for amazing cycling adventures this summer. From 5-star to rustic, don’t forget to check out the venue websites for the most up-to-date packages and deals for cycling memories of a lifetime. Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy Best Cycling Great Escapes. Have a

4 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

fabulous season ahead.

5 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

BEN HAGGAR / TOURISM FERNIE/CASTLE MOUNTAIN TRAIL SYSTEM

REGION QUEBEC, CANADA

ACCOMMODATION Many great hotel and B&B options in the region

CYCLING • Le P’tit Train du Nord linear park • 58km Aerobic Corridor • Parc Freeride Pentes 40/80 • Montagne du Diable • 90km Ironman training route at Mont-Tremblant • Bike shops • Rentals • E-bikes welcome ATTRACTIONS • Mont-Laurier’s Twin Covered Bridges • Sainte-Andréd’Argenteuil route • Les Rythmes Tremblant • Festival Stradivaria • Festival des Arts de Saint-Sauveur • Route des BellesHistoires • Exhibition Pléiade Printanière • Vélo-Gare in Mont-Tremblant GETTING THERE Nearest airport: • Montreal Intl Airport (YUL) LAURENTIANS TOURISM Exit 51 from Highway 15 North, service area 450-224-7007 800-561-6673

6 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

www.laurentians.com OFFICIAL CYCLING MAP

www.laurentians.co m/en/cyclotourism

PHOTOS: TOURISME LAURENTIDES

DINING Sumptuous local cuisine throughout the Laurentians

CYCLING THE LAURENTIANS

Stretching north from Montréal, this wonderland of winding rivers, pristine lakes, green valleys and natural parks is a premier cycling destination rich in culture and epicurean delights. Road, mountain or trail, whether you are performance training or on your first family cycling holiday, the Laurentian region has your cycling adventure. Sample Mont-Laurier’s Twin Covered Bridges cycling route, or Saint-André-d’Argenteuil’s Seigneury of Argenteuil route through historic villages, pastoral farms and unforgettable panoramas.

In the Laurentians, almost every community has unique cycling offerings to tempt you. The world-famous Le P’tit Train du Nord linear park offers hundreds of kilometres of safe, car-free inn-to-inn cycle touring. Delicious beyond belief, sumptuous local cuisine throughout the Laurentians will ensure you strike “it’s just fuel” from your vocabulary forever. The Morin-Heights to Amherst Aerobic Corridor is a 58km hybrid and mountain-bike trail traversing the western Laurentians’ brilliant natural beauty. Want more? Challenge yourself at Parc Freeride Pentes 40/80 in Sainte-Adèle, flow the cross-country and enduro trails of Montagne du Diable in Ferme-Neuve. Test yourself on Mont-Tremblant’s 90km sign-posted Ironman training route, a world’s first. Culture, festivals, and must-see special events — there’s so much available after you get off your bike. Les Rythmes Tremblant’s three weekends of free concerts, Festival Stradivaria throughout the region, and Festival des Arts de Saint-Sauveur are just three of many. Order our Official Cycling Map 2023-2024 for free online or download it as a PDF.

POWERDOME

F O R W H AT E V E R YO U C A L L A R O A D

abus.com

REGION QUEBEC, CANADA

ACCOMMODATION Abundant campsites, charming hotels, and unique bed and breakfasts. DINING Delightful local dining options throughout the region.

ATTRACTIONS • Microbreweries • Cheese-making dairies • Chocolate factories • Fresh blueberries • Parc National de la Pointe-Taillon • 42km of beaches • Several mountain bike and/or fat bike centres • Native inlu community of Mashteuiatesh • Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien • Village historique de Val-Jalbert (authentic “company town” of the 1920s)

8 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Aéroport SaguenayBagotville (YBG) • Jean Lesage International (YQB) in Québec City • Pierre Elliott Trudeau International (YUL) in Montreal VÉLOROUTE DES BLEUETS 1692, avenue du Pont Nord, Alma, Quebec, G8B 5G3 1-418-668-4541 1-866-550-4541 www.veloroutedesbleuets. com

PHOTOS: VÉLOROUTE DES BLEUETS

CYCLING • 256km route around Lac Saint-Jean featuring diverse scenery • 150km of downhill trails • Bike guide • Bike rentals • E-bikes welcome • Mobile app for interactive maps

VÉLOROUTE DES BLEUETS

Imagine the perfect cycling holiday. What would it include? Pedaling alongside lakes, waterfalls and deserted sandy beaches on family-friendly paved trails? Marine shuttles to ferry you across crystal-clear rivers? Secure charging stations for your e-bike? Luggage shuttles to travel light and free? Add 65 roaming Bicycle Ambassadors, flat or gently rolling terrain, copious fresh blueberries in August, and you have Véloroute des Bleuets circuit in Saguenay–LacSaint-Jean, Québec, Canada. Offering 256 kilometres of diverse scenery that circumnavigate Lac Saint-Jean, a true inland sea, Véloroute des Bleuets explores fifteen authentic municipalities and the native Ilnu community of Mashteuiatsh. Each community celebrates the region’s cycling culture, providing a truly unique cycling destination in North America. Quench your thirst at one of many microbreweries, tour cheese-making dairies and chocolate factories. Be awed by endless fields of flowering yellow canola, and let a towering church steeple guide you to the next quaint village. Véloroute des Bleuets passes through the beautiful Parc National de la Pointe-Taillon, offering a spectacular 48-kilometre path surrounded by beautiful forest and wildlife.

Endurance, cross-country and downhill mountain bikers can shred more than 150 kilometres of trails at five Lac Saint-Jean locations, including the sandy flow trails of Métabetchouan, the exhilarating enduro singletrack of Mont Lac-Vert, the cross-country enduro trails of ToboSki, and other centres catering to every skill level. Beyond cycling, Véloroute des Bleuets entices with delicious local dining, abundant campsites, charming hotels and unique bed & breakfast opportunities to enhance your cycling experience. Check out their bike guide for tips on planning your next trip for memories of a lifetime.

Distributeur exclusif / Exclusive distributor:

E-SCORPION H1 / H2 Et autres produits / And other products

GABRIEL GAKWAYA

RIDE QUEBEC CITY Québec’s love affair with cycling is legendary, and the Québec City region is home to five amazing trail networks that boast some of the best mountain-biking trails anywhere in the world. Vallée Bras-du-Nord features 100km of superb singletrack on two trail systems, Shannahan and Saint-Raymond, with ample climbing and demanding descents, berms, bridges and rock gardens. Shannahan’s 70km of trails welcome beginners and families on the Delaney Falls route, while advanced riders can stretch their legs on Boreal, Légende and Neilson along with other popular trails. Intermediate to advanced riders will love shredding all that Saint-Raymond has to offer on its 30km of well-cut narrow paths near the village, with short climbs and descents that are sure to bring a smile before enjoying a well-deserved pint at a microbrewery. Vallée Bras-du-Nord, a sister network of the very popular Kingdom Trails in Burke, VT, also offers on-site accommodations including cabins, yurts, camping, cottages and hotels, along with many other outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, Via Ferrata and canyoning. A proud member of the 1% for the Planet movement, Vallée Bras-du-Nord is committed and involved in making sustainable development and the environment key mandates.

NICK DIGNARD

10 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Vallée Bras-du-Nord

Mont-Sainte-Anne

Mont-Sainte-Anne has a global reputation as one of the ultimate destinations for mountain bikers with trails for beginners, families, and expert riders alike. Claiming the largest trail network in Eastern Canada, it includes 130 kilometres of cross-country trails, 28 kilometres of downhill trails and nine kilometres of pure all-mountain riding — all reachable by chairlift. The award-winning Mountain Bike Park features a

REGION QUEBEC, CANADA ACCOMMODATION A variety of options on-site at each venue

ANDY VATHIS

DINING Great selection of restaurants and micro-breweries CYCLING • 70km Shannahan Trails, 30km at SaintRaymond at Vallée Bras-du-Nord • 130km of crosscountry trails, 28km of downhill trails, 9km of pure allmountain, Mountain Bike Park at MSA • 60km of MTB trails at Sentiers du Moulin w/unique “Slab City” trail and Bikeskills • 40km of MTB trails, 23 downhill endurostyle trails, skill zones at Le Massif de Charlevoix • 67km of trails at Empire 47 w/40+ dedicated patrollers, plus 50 km of fat bike trails in winter

variety of trails including “La Cairn” for less technical terrain, or “La Zappa” and “Sentiers du Moulin” featuring a mix of roots, rocks and drops. The park also offers a huge pump track, a new dual slalom and a mini-zone shore. In October 2023, Mont-Sainte-Anne will host its 28th UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and celebrate its 31st year of UCI events. A variety of accommodations are available on-site, from camping all the way up to the four-star Delta MontSainte-Anne. The resort also has many attractions and other activities, including hiking, golfing, gondola rides, paragliding, canyoning, spas and excellent dining.

Sentiers du Moulin

Located just 20 minutes from Québec City, Sentiers du Moulin is a mountain biker’s paradise. With 65km of mountain-bike and all-mountain trails for riders of all skill levels, a highlight is the unique “Slab

City” trail where you can ride exclusively on porous granite for over one mile, making it one of the longest enduro descents on bedrock in the world. New for 2023 is an association with Bikeskills, an exclusive mountain-bike coaching academy for beginners and experienced riders offering a full range of clinics, private lessons, as well as corporate services. The accommodation options near Sentiers du Moulin are varied with beautiful mini-cabins at the Maelstrom sector on the trails, along with the Entourage sur-le-Lac hotel on the shore of Lac-Beauport. Post-ride, you can enjoy microbrews, along with burgers, poutine, nachos, salads and more at La Buvette du Moulin, or head to Microbrasserie Archibald or restaurant Chez Boub in Lac-Beauport. Winter lovers can enjoy 50km of cross-country skiing trails, 40+km of fatbike routes, and 20km of snowshoeing options.

GETTING THERE Nearest airport: • Jean Lesage Int’l (YQB) in Québec City VALLÉE BRAS-DUNORD www.valleebrasdunord. com MONT-SAINTE-ANNE www.mont-sainte-anne. com/en SENTIERS DU MOULIN www.sentiersdumoulin. com LE MASSIF DE CHARLEVOIX www.lemassif.com EMPIRE 47 www.empire47.com

11 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ETIENNE DIONNE

GABRIEL GAKWAYA

ATTRACTIONS Old Québec City, Place Royale, Château Frontenac Hotel, Citadelle of Québec, Petit Champlain district, Plains of Abraham, Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec, Montmorency Falls, Jacques‑Cartier National Park

With nearly 40km of mountain bike trails, Le Massif de Charlevoix delivers unique and unforgettable mountain biking experiences. Discover the longest vertical drop east of the Rockies, along with 23 downhill enduro-style trails for gravity smiles from ear to ear. A new upper-skill zone allows you to progress on turns and jumps. At the base of the mountain, a second zone allows you to learn the skills required for mountain biking. Le Massif has also teamed up with the Sentier des Caps to offer nearly 6km of adventure bike loops, while families can enjoy the 3km in the Cerise sur le Sundae trail with breathtaking views of the river. At Camp Boule restaurant, you can relish delicious food and enjoy post-bike gatherings while taking in breathtaking views of the river from the terrace. Alternatively, you can visit Le P’tit Dep du Massif located at the summit of the mountain. Accommodations are also available at the summit and base of the mountain, offering convenient access to the lifts, biking and hiking trails.

ANDY VATHIS

Le Massif

GABRIEL GAKWAYA

12 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Empire 47 features more than 67 km of well-maintained mountain bike trails for all levels of riding, and is an ideal venue for families and school groups. A relatively easy loop connects most of the trails with intermediate level routes such as Kamasutrail and Shaman, or Pad Religion and Upper Valkyrie for more skilled mountain bikers. Trails such as Queue de Castor, Flowrentide and Huron will appeal to riders of all levels. A second summit will give experienced riders access to trails like the new Nosferatu, a unique, expert, freeride trail with more than 40 gaps and jumps. Located near Lac Delage, Empire 47 has more than 40 dedicated, professional and trained patrollers on the trails who can offer valuable advice, or assist in case of emergency. With an impressive rental fleet, Empire 47 is the perfect place to stretch your legs and get acquainted with the joys of mountain biking. Riders can even perfect their mountain-bike skills with lessons for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders directly on site. On the weekends, a mountain-bike daycare will also entertain smaller kids. Featuring a network of more than 50 km of fat bike trails, Empire 47 is also a winter cycling destination par excellence.

SENTIERS DU MOULIN

Empire 47

Cuba offers superb cycling vacation destinations where you can enjoy white sand beaches, colorful landscapes, fabulous cycling trails, and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore the outdoors.

Adventures • Heritage Sites

• Full Supported Tours • Road, Gravel & MTB

• Stunning Landscapes • Turquoise Beaches • Hidden Gems

Unforgettable cycling adventures with the experts at Aventuras CanBiCuba S.A. www.bicyclebreeze.net

EXPLORE YOUR WORLD WITH E-ASE SLANE RIDEAU Folding E-bike. Candy Apple Metallic Red, Black, White or Green. Also available: SLANE RIDEAU PLUS or SLANE COLUMBUS PLUS (inset) featuring: larger capacity 48V16Ah battery, front & rear hydraulic disc brakes, aluminum front forks, left mirror and suspension seat post. Visit www.o2ride.ca to see the SLANE E-bike lineup and find a SLANE E-bike Dealer near you.

TOURISM SARNIA-LAMBTON

ONTARIO’S BLUE COAST HAS IT ALL

16 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

LAMBTON COUNTY & BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL GRANFONDO Combining irresistible natural shorelines, kilometres of paved bike trails and rural roads, Blue Flag beaches, craft beer breweries and an appreciation of cycling culture, Ontario’s Blue Coast in Lambton County has it all for cycling adventurers.

Include the seventh annual Bluewater International Granfondo on August 6, voted Ontario’s #1 Granfondo, second overall in Canada and fourth in North America by the Granfondo Guide, and the Blue Coast becomes a mustvisit cycling destination. A crown jewel in the region is the 35-kilometre St. Clair River Trail which showcases the stunning natural beauty of the river from a family-friendly paved trail that’s primarily off-road. Along the trail, explore a bio-diverse Carolinian Climate Zone including Brander Park Woodlot, the quaint Sombra Museum featuring the 1881 Bury House with eight rooms of fully furnished history, or marvel at the huge freighters sailing by. Go Looping through Lambton on a flat 166-kilometre

REGION ONTARIO, CANADA ACCOMMODATION Wide variety of great options from B&B’s to 4-star hotels

three-day self-guided tour. Visit historic sections of the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, share St. Clair River shorelines used by Al Capone to smuggle moonshine, or view the Oil Museum of Canada’s National Historic Site before venturing into the tranquil views of local farms and landscapes. Pedalling the Cheers to the Coast Trail, an emerging cycling favourite, will ensure you’re never far from distinctive craft breweries, award-winning wineries, hard cider distilleries and mead. Sip and savour while knowing that delightful restaurants and accommodations surround you. Add the Grand Bend option to your loop tour and ride along Lake Huron’s sparkling Blue Flag beaches. Relax in Pinery Provincial Park where you can access their 14 kilometres of paved bike trails for free before connecting to the Grand Bend Rotary Trail. Gravel aficionados can find RidewithGPS gravel routes as well. The popular Bluewater International Granfondo continues to exceed participant expectations as a professionally run, ultra-scenic, fun event. That’s why enthusiastic B.I.G. riders have raised $350,000 for Palliative Care Education within Sarnia-Lambton. For 2023, the

event will host the Ontario First Responders Road Cycling Championships. Starting beachfront at Mike Weir Park in Sarnia, the Granfondo includes four distances. Grove Route is a family-friendly 30 kilometres that encourages kids as young as 10 years old with their own event jersey, swag bag and finisher medal. There’s the flat and scenic Sarnia 50K, and the Lambton 100K on quiet country roads with three short climbs, both featuring timed sections. Mass start anxieties are eliminated because each distance begins separately. Competitive riders can connect with national and provincial racers, pros and celebrity guests the evening prior to the Granfondo at the Pro Event Dinner, before testing themselves on the four timed sections and 800 metres of climbing on the 150K Bluewater Route. Timing select segments rather than the complete ride allows participants to regroup and enjoy cycling with friends and teammates between segments, enhancing the fun of the event for everyone. Registration for the Bluewater International Granfondo includes a hot meal and cold beverage with entertainment by a live band — and an optional swim in Lake Huron.

CYCLING • 35km St. Clair River Trail • 166km Looping through Lambton • Bluewater International Granfondo • Cheers to Coast Trail • Grand Bend Rotary Trail ATTRACTIONS • Sombra Museum 1881 Bury House • Underground Railroad Bicycle Route • Oil Museum of Canada’s National Historic Site • Blue Flag beaches • Mike Weir Park • Pinery Provincial Park • Stones ‘N Bones Museum • Judith and Norman Alix Art Gallery • Wawanosh Wetlands Conservation Area • Lawrence House Centre for the Arts • Blue Water Bridge • Countless festivals and events GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Pearson International Airport (YYZ) 275km away • London International Airport (YXU) • Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport for private planes is 10km from downtown TOURISM SARNIALAMBTON 1455 Venetian Blvd, Point Edward, Ontario, N7T 7W7 800-265-0316 www.tourismsarnialambton.com BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL GRANFONDO www.bigf.ca

17 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

TOURISM SARNIA-LAMBTON BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL GRANFONDO

BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL GRANFONDO

TOURISM SARNIA-LAMBTON

DINING Many eateries, pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets

REGION ONTARIO, CANADA ACCOMMODATION Carefully selected the best hotels, inns and B&Bs to suit any accommodation style and budget. DINING Many options to suit all tastes from cafes and restaurants, to fine dining

GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Hamilton Int’l Airport in Mount Hope 50 min away • Niagara Falls Int’l Airport in Niagara Falls, New York. • Buffalo Niagara Int’l Airport 20 min away NIAGARA CYCLING TOURS P.O. Box 312 Niagara-OnThe-Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0 1-800-852-6930 www.niagaracyclingtours.ca

The Niagara region is a cyclist’s dream for both novice and experienced riders seeking a challenge, and there’s no better way to create memories of a lifetime than with the local experts at Niagara Cycling Tours. While everyone knows of the stunning and worldrenowned Niagara Falls, the engineering marvel of the Welland Canal, and the region’s amazing world-class wineries and vineyards, Niagara Cycling Tours will take you places you won’t likely find on your own. Showcasing all of the area’s amazing towns, cities and hamlets from Niagara-on-the-Lake, to Crystal Beach, Port Dalhousie, Jordan, Queenston Heights and many more, Niagara Cycling Tours truly covers all the bases. From multi-day tours to weekend or weekday excursions, cycling routes have been planned to offer greater distance (90-120+km) or lesser distance (50-75km) options for cyclists of all abilities. Bring your own bike or rent from their vast and varied fleet of options — e-bikes are also welcome. Carefully measured and tested routes include the Greater Niagara Circle Route, Friendship Trail and many sections of the Great Waterfront Trail system, but NCT’s guides can take you through several thousand kilometres of scenic, safe and interesting roads, bike paths and hidden trails that even the locals aren’t aware of. With fabulous wineries and craft beer offerings at virtually every stop, Niagara Cycling Tours has also carefully selected the best hotels, inns and B&Bs to suit any accommodation style and budget. It’s time to take that well-deserved cycling vacation to the Niagara region, and let award-winning Niagara Cycling Tours take care of the rest. Ride. Discover. Repeat.

PHOTOS: NIAGARA CYCLING TOURS

18 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ATTRACTIONS • Niagara-on-the-Lake Heritage District • Safari Niagara • Laura Secord Homestead • Brock’s Monument at Queenston Heights • Queen’s Royal Park • Maid of Mist • Ball’s Falls Conservation Area • Short Hills Provincial Park • Decew Falls • St Catharines Museum • Comfort Maple Conservation Area • Zip line tours • Helicopter tours • Wine tours

CYCLING NIAGARA

NIAGARA CYCLING TOURISM CENTRE

CYCLING • 140km Greater Niagara Circle Route • 24km Friendship Trail • Niagara River Recreation Trail, 53km from Fort Erie to NOTL • Multi-day tours to weekend or weekday excursions • Distance options for cyclists of all abilities • Vast and varied fleet of rental options • E-bikes welcome

Discover Europe by bicycle

11 10 3

Helsinki

Oslo

Tallinn

Stockholm 12

Moscow Riga Copenhagen

Vilnius

Dublin

Minsk

Amsterdam Berlin London

Brussels 4

Warsaw

Prague

Luxembourg

Paris

Kyiv

13 15

Bratislava

Chisinau

Vienna

Budapest

Bern 3

7 17

Ljubljana

Zagreb Belgrade

Bucarest

Sarajevo Pristina Podgorica Lisbon

Madrid

Sofia Skopje 13

Tirana

Rome 5

Izmir 8

Athens

Nicosia Valletta

EuroVelo.com

17 routes, 90,000+ kilometres EuroVelo is the European cycle route network, a network of long distance cycle routes that cross and connect the whole of Europe.

HAMILTON TOURISM

CYCLING BEYOND PARIS TO ANCASTER

20 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Experience the Hamilton, Halton and Brant area of Southern Ontario, home of Paris to Ancaster, one of the largest off-road cycling events in North America, attracting thousands of participants and spectators each year. The area features the Niagara Escarpment, Grand River, Bruce Trail and Lake Ontario shoreline, plus there are many attractions, heritage sites and vibrant downtown areas for accommodation options and great dining. Hamilton

Hamilton boasts over 100km of bike trails traversing breathtaking natural landscapes, waterfalls, escarpments and urban areas. A popular cycling route is the 42km Escarpment Rail Trail that crosses the Niagara Escarpment to Brantford, offering panoramic views of the city skyline, farms and valleys. Another must-see cycling destination is the Waterfront Trail, which extends 7km along Hamilton Harbour and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. Hamilton also boasts a number of cycling events, including the Hamilton Bike Share, Bike for Mike, and the annual Hamilton Cycling Festival, that attracts thousands of cycling enthusiasts from around the world. In addition, Hamilton offers attractions such as the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the historic Dundurn Castle and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

HAMILTON TOURISM

HAMILTON, BRANT AND HALTON DELIVER

Halton

The Halton region welcomes all cyclists, offering many on- and off-road opportunities for all skill levels. With interactive maps of eight road cycling routes, you can enjoy rides from 36 to 100km, with a variety of intensity levels. These routes offer a variety of experiences from wineries and Mennonite shops to conservation areas and lakefront views. For off-road cycling lovers, try the challenging and adventurous mountain biking trails at Kelso, Hilton Falls and Mountsberg conservation areas. Cycling enthusiasts can also enjoy the world-class indoor track facility at Milton’s velodrome, the Mattamy National Cycling Centre. You’ll also find bike rentals, guided tours, bike-friendly accommodations, charity rides and events such as the Epic Tour, the GTA’s GranFondo, one of Canada’s largest cycling events. Halton is also home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, Canada’s largest botanical garden, 14 regional forests, and incredible lakeside views with more than 25km of Lake Ontario waterfront.

REGION ONTARIO, CANADA ACCOMMODATION The area offers many accommodation options from bed and breakfasts to 5-star hotels DINING Numerous great dining options, cafes, eateries, wineries, taverns, bars, pizzarias, coffee houses and more.

PARIS TO ANCASTER

CYCLING • 42km Escarpment Rail Trail • 7km Waterfront Trail • World-class indoor track at Milton velodrome • 65km Grand River cycling loop • Paris to Ancaster bike race • Bike for Mike • Hamilton Cycling Festival • Epic Tour • Rentals • Lessons • Guided tours • E-bikes welcome

Brant

HAMILTON CIVIC MUSEUMS

One of Brant County’s most popular cycling destinations is the 275km Grand River, a designated Canadian Heritage River that is the largest watershed in southern Ontario. Canada’s iconic Trans Canada Trail passes through the Grand River watershed from Belwood Lake to Brantford, which includes a side trip to Guelph. Try the 65km Grand River Cycling Loop for breathtaking views as you enjoy a mix of paved, gravel and dirt paths through scenic forests, wetlands and farmland. There are many two-wheel options such as the 48km Paris to Scotland Tour, or the 26km Pleasant Ridge Tour. Don’t forget to explore the charming towns and historic sites along the way. The County has one of the most beautiful and conveniently connected trail systems winding through the only tract of Carolinian Forest found in Canada where you can also enjoy canoeing, rafting, kayaking and fishing.

Paris to Ancaster

The renowned Paris to Ancaster bike race, dubbed Canada’s cycling spring classic, took place on April 30 this year. First held in 1994, the iconic event traverses all three regions. With something for everyone, there are different categories of races for riders of all skill levels, including elite racers, recreational riders and children. Paris to Ancaster has seen several thousand participants taking on various distances, including P2A Cento (P2A 100k), P2A Classic (P2A 70k), P2A Breve (P2A 45k), and P2A Family (P2A 20K) In recognition of the event’s challenging terrain, the Paris to Ancaster bike race was awarded the title of Canadian Gravel Championships by Cycling Canada in 2021 and in 2023. This event also has a significant charitable component, with funds raised from the P2A Family Ride donated to the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Canoeing, rafting, kayaking, hiking, fishing GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Hamilton International Airport in Mount Hope, 20 min to downtown • Pearson International Airport (YYZ), 65km away HAMILTON, HALTON, BRANT REGION 605 James Street North #201, Hamilton, ON, L8L 1J9 905-297-0190 www.hamiltonhaltonbrant.com

21 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

ART GALLERY OF HAMILTON

ATTRACTIONS • Art Gallery of Hamilton • Dundurn Castle • Royal Botanical Gardens • Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

REGION ONTARIO, CANADA ACCOMMODATION Many accommodation options nearby in Oro, Orillia, and Barrie DINING Sandwiches, wraps, salads, etc. available in the Chalet every day, hot food served out of the Hardwood Food Trailer, fully licensed

22 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ATTRACTIONS • Barrie Waterfront Festival • Scenic Caves Adventure Tours • Longest Suspension Bridge in S. Ontario • Barrie Jazz & Blues Festival • Vetta Nordic Spa • Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain • Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre • Stephen Leacock Museum • Orillia Museum of Art and History • Quayle’s Brewery • Oro-Medonte Rail Trail GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Lake Simcoe Regional Airport (YLK) 7km away • Pearson International Airport (YYZ) 115km away • Billy Bishop (YTZ) 120km away HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE 402 Old Barrie Road West, Oro Station, Ontario, L0L 2E0 705-487-3775 hardwoodskiandbike.ca

PHOTOS: HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE

CYCLING • 12 trails • 40km of rolling double track trails • 50km of single track trails • Wednesday night race series • Camp Hardwood • Rentals • Lessons • E-bikes welcome • Trail fees apply, best to purchase before arrival

HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE

Just 1.5 hours north of Toronto lies legendary Hardwood Ski and Bike, a mountain biking nirvana that keeps on giving. Featuring beautifully flowing trails, the venue offers 40km of rolling doubletrack trails and an additional 50km of singletrack trails that intertwine with the XC ski trail network, creating endless possibilities. The popular site includes 12 amazing trails that are fully signed and integrated with Trail Forks, catering to all riders from beginner (Nice ‘n’ Easy), up to international level riders (Pan Am). Home to Ontario’s longest-running Wednesday Night Race series (est. 1995), there are lessons and programs for all levels of riders. In addition, Camp Hardwood, a mountain bike & outdoor adventure program, offers weekly camp sessions from July through August — ask about their new Leader in Training program. Hardwood Ski and Bike has a full-service bike shop for all your cycling needs, including repairs, tune-ups and more. A full fleet of the newest Trek rentals and highperformance demos are always available. Plus, their retail shop is fully equipped with both riding and XC skiing gear, along with specialized accessories to cover all your yearround needs. Fully licensed, this season they’ll be offering beer, wine and cider in the Chalet and on the patio. With the recent launch of their new commercial kitchen, Hardwood Ski and Bike now has delicious fare available courtesy of Cravings Fine Food. The Smash Burger is a house favourite

after enjoying the trails. Free parking is another bonus, as Hardwood Ski and Bike wants to make outdoor sports accessible to everyone. A wide variety of activities are offered so that the whole family can have an awesome day outdoors.

REGION ALBERTA, CANADA

PHOTOS: MOUNTAIN MADNESS CYCLE TOURS

ACCOMMODATION Sunwapta Falls Resort, The Crossing Resort, Mountaineer Lodge all with private washrooms en suite, no public kitchens available DINING On-site restaurants feature a set menu, buffet meals, all included in the tour cost CYCLING • 232km Jasper to Lake Louise • 60km Lake Louise and Banff on Bow Valley Parkway • 25km Banff to Canmore on Legacy Trail Bike Path • Rentals available including e-bikes • Park fees included in tour cost ATTRACTIONS • Jasper and Banff National Parks • Peyto Lake • Bow Lake • Athabasca Falls • Sunwapta Falls • Tangle Falls • Columbia Icefield • Saskatchewan River Crossing • Weeping Wall • Big Hill & Big Bend • Parker Ridge • Glacier Sky Walk GETTING THERE Nearest airport: • Edmonton Int’l Airport (YEG) 26km from the city centre MOUNTAIN MADNESS TOURS

Edmonton, AB

24 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

(780) 885-9813 www.mountainmadnesstours.com

ICONIC ICEFIELDS PARKWAY Alberta’s Icefields Parkway is a dramatic 232-kilometre passage through the Rocky Mountains, and there’s no better way to experience this iconic cycling route than with the local experts at Mountain Madness Cycle Tours Inc. Rated as one of the most beautiful journeys on the planet, the route is an exhilarating panorama of craggy mountain peaks rising from crystal blue glacial lakes, relentless rivers, cascading waterfalls and distinct Canadian wildlife. Mountain Madness Cycle Tour’s most popular itinerary is a four-day, hotel-based tour that includes meals and transportation for you and your bike from Edmonton to Jasper, as well as transporting your luggage while you ride. The journey includes the Icefields Parkway route from Jasper to Lake Louise, and it continues along the Bow Valley Parkway to Banff and then on to Canmore via the Legacy Trail for a rewarding trip of about 300km. They also set up rest stops with food and beverages to keep you nourished and hydrated, organize your accommodations, and their support vans are at the ready if you need a ride at any time. Moderate fitness is sufficient to tackle the generally gradual climbs on the route, and you can relax in the evenings with a hot bath or a beverage. Delivering a perfect mix of effort, reward and relaxation, owner Ben Johnson and his team at Mountain Madness Cycle Tours know how to help you challenge yourself physically and mentally, while still allowing you to let go and immerse yourself in the Rockies. Following this cycling journey, you’ll take home a USB drive with great photos taken during the tour to capture some memories of this bucket-list cycling adventure. Road and e-bike rentals are also available at additional cost for any of the Mountain Madness Cycle Tours.

TOURISM FERNIE/ VINCE MO

26 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Fernie is a world-class outdoor adventure destination all year round. Known for its champagne powder as part of the Powder Highway, Fernie is also an established cycling destination for all levels of riders, with an ever-growing trail network thanks to its passionate community. There are eight areas with literally hundreds of trails to choose from, including mountain biking, gravel cycling, downhill via lift access, bike-packing, and fat biking in winter. For novice bikers and families, we recommend exploring the new paved Fernie Valley Pathway (10.6km return). The 1.2km Cemetery Trail Loop and the 7km Easy Beaver Adaptive Trail are friendly teasers to singletrack mountain biking in Fernie. For intermediate riders, the 7.5km Swine Flu trail offers a sustained uphill with a flowy, fast downhill. For more advanced riders, the trails on Castle Mountain such as Hyper Vent, Hyper Extension and Southern Comfort all offer technical uphill & downhill challenges. Fernie Alpine Resort’s lift access bike park features 36 trails in the summer season from late June to early September. Build confidence on Honey Bee before flowing through Mr. Berms and moving on to Top Gun, famous for its low and fast jumps.

TOURISM FERNIE/ VINCE MO

WORLD-CLASS CYCLING IN FERNIE

There are countless gravel routes highlighted by the Fernie Gravel Grind event in June, a weekend-long gravel cycling experience with some of the best gravel riding that Canada has to offer. The event is open to everyone and offers multiple distances, race categories and live entertainment for all ages. If bike-packing is your game, Fernie is located at one of the stops on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route that spans 4,418km and the TransCanada Trail with 27,000km. Local bikepacking routes include Hartley Lake for a 30km return day trip or the mammoth Summer Lake 130km return multi-day adventure. There are plenty of other events over the summer to build a thirst for, including the TransRockies Singletrack 6, Fernie Canadian Nationals Downhill Championships, the TransRockies Gravel Royale and the WAM BAM Dirt Jump Jam. In addition, there are weekly adult, youth and kids bike races, social rides and mountain biking clinics. Class 1 e-bikes are welcome on the trails in Fernie, making it a perfect cycling destination. In addition, equipment rentals and services are available at several locations in town and on the mountain. Fernie also offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit different budgets from hotels or luxurious condos on

MATT KUHN

REGION BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA ACCOMMODATION Diverse range of options to suit different budgets

CYCLING • Hundreds of trails in 8 areas • Most of the trails are bikeable from town • Mountain biking, downhill, gravel cycling, bike-packing, winter fat biking • Lift-access bike park at Fernie Alpine Resort • Cycling and mountain biking events and races • See fernietrailmap. com for trails in the area

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Low-valley and alpine hiking, dry fly-fishing, white-water rafting, SUPing, kayaking, golfing ATTRACTIONS Historic Downtown, Fernie Aquatic Centre, Boutique and sports shops, Spa and wellness options, Local Theatre, Self-guided themed tours with the Iconic Fernie mobile app, Events,live music and entertainment GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Calgary Int’l Airport (YYC) – 3-hour drive • Glacier Int’l Airport, Kalispell, MT (FCA) – 2-hour drive • Canadian Rockies Int’s Airport (YXC) in Cranbrook, 1.25 hr drive • Daily shuttle & charter service available with Tunnel49 FERNIE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 102 Commerce Road Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 www.tourismfernie.com

27 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

DESTINATION B.C./ MITCH WINTON

the mountain or in town, to chalets, tiny homes, PODs, etc. The RV Park is open all year round, and the Mount Fernie provincial campground is open from June to the beginning of October. Eclectic dining is offered in every corner of this mountain town. Fernie’s passionate foodie vibe has influenced a burgeoning locally made scene and inspired a variety of international dining to suit all taste buds. Visitors can sip & savour local beverages inspired by Fernie’s landscape and lifestyle, such as local craft brews, award-winning cocktails and small-batch artisan coffee, or sample artisan bean-to-bar chocolate, pastries, local produce and more. Fernie offers a variety of shopping options at independent boutique stores and shops, spas and wellness establishments. Also check out the latest blockbuster movies at the local movie theatre, self-guided arts and heritage tours and more. Other popular outdoor activities include low-valley and alpine hiking, dry fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, SUPing, kayaking and golfing. A mere 3-hour drive southwest from Calgary or a 2-hour drive from Glacier Park International Airport (Kalispell, MT), Fernie beckons to be explored amidst a relaxed atmosphere, with locally brewed beverages to top off your ride.

MATT KUHN

DAVID BENNISON

DINING Many selections from casual to fine dining

REGION VERNON, B.C., CANADA ACCOMMODATION Many options in the region from B&B’s to 4-star hotels

ATTRACTIONS • Kalamalka Indigenous Garden • Sparkling Hill Resort • Davison Orchards Country Village • Vernon Farmer’s Market • Planet Bee Honey Farm • Historic O’Keefe Ranch • Okanagan Science Centre • Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery • Predator Ridge Resort • Cambium Cider Co. • SilverStar Mountain Resort

28 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

GETTING THERE Nearest airport: • Kelowna International Airport (YLW), a scenic 30-minute drive from Vernon TOURISM VERNON Vernon, B.C. 250-542-1415 info@tourismvernon.com www.tourismvernon.com

CYCLING VERNON

The Vernon region in B.C. is bursting with cycling adventures, fabulous accommodations and amenities that will keep you coming back for more. Experience the 52km Okanagan Rail Trail, one of the most scenic gravel/e-bike rides along the spectacular Kalamalka Lake. The Okanagan Rail Trail is great during all four seasons, but if you want to join a riding event, check out the Okanagan Rail Ride that takes place this fall on Sept. 10. The giant 105km Vernon loop for roadies offers a mammoth all-in-one adventure — or take it on in sections. Great re-fuelling spots include the Cambium Cider Co, Davison Orchards, and The Rise Golf Course which features an amazing view. Test your mettle on Silver Star Road, the iconic Okanagan hill climb ascending 1,445m, one of the top five road climbs in Canada. For more adventures, explore the road cycling routes around Predator Ridge Resort, a climb that’s as challenging as you want to make it. End up at the winery patio for a well-deserved break before returning to Vernon via the Okanagan Rail Trail. If mountain biking’s your game there are countless amazing trails in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park (Kal Park), or check out the routes around Ellison Provincial Park that link up with the Predator Ridge trail system. Predator Ridge added about 5km of new trails in spring 2023 and the network is expected to see continued expansion. The popular Killer King Route is a 50km cross-country style single-track loop that takes you through the very best trails of Kal Park and the King Eddie Plateau. Shop and dine by bike in the City of Vernon which features multi-use pathways and bicycle-friendly businesses that offer bicycle parking inside, or bike corrals next to patios. Cruise the inner-city multi-use pathway or venture out on the Grey Canal trail surrounding Vernon — e-bike rentals are also a great option.

PHOTOS: TOURISM VERNON

CYCLING • 52km Okanagan Rail Trail • 105km Vernon Loop • Iconic Silver Star road climb • Predator Ridge trail system • 50km Killer King Route • Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park • Ellison Provincial Park • Shop and dine by bike in Vernon • E-bikes welcome

CLINT TRAHAN

DINING A variety of great dining options can be found throughout the area

It doesn’t get much better than the Adirondacks for two-wheel adventures. From scenic country roads to impressive landscapes with sparkling waters, rolling farmland and gentle forests, the Adirondack region of New York State is a cycling mecca.

30 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Lake Champlain

Nestled between the Adirondack and Green Mountains, the Lake Champlain Region offers extensive cycling options on scenic roads with picturesque farmlands, forests and mountains. Travel through five different apple orchards on the 24.4-mile Acres of Apples ride with amazing river gorge views along with the spectacular “Grand Canyon of the East,” the Ausable Chasm. The Fort to Fort loop features two of America’s most historic forts and an amazing flat route with views of Lake Champlain and the distant mountains. There are services in Crown Point and Ticonderoga, and note that the historic sites have entry fees. The popular and picturesque 26.1-mile Iron to Iron route through Port Henry pays homage to the Industrial Revolution with two museums along the route. Mostly paved, there are some very hilly remote roads with limited services and some logging truck traffic. Two of Lake Champlain’s great cycling routes for more experienced, longdistance riders are the northern sections of the 750-mile Empire State Trail, covering the entire state and welcoming cyclists and hikers alike. The 27-mile route from Ticonderoga to Westport and the 30-mile section from Westport to Keeseville near the Canadian border feature sweeping views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain. With plenty of gorgeous, cultural stops and quaint small towns along the way, along with local harvests and brews for re-fueling, the Lake Champlain Region beckons your next legendary ride.

Whiteface Region

The Whiteface Region is home to countless miles of beautiful country roads, perfect for road cycling during your next unforgettable Adirondack vacation. One of the most spectacular rides in the Adirondacks, on July 16, the Ride for the River supports the conservation work of the Ausable River Association to protect the clean waters, healthy streams, biodiverse habitats and scenic beauty of the Ausable River watershed. Featuring two breathtaking routes with distances

PHOTOS: REGIONAL OFFICE OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

CYCLING THE ADIRONDACKS

of 30 or 43 miles, the event also hosts a 20-mile “tailgater” group ride on July 15 for those who’d like to come into town a day or two early to make it a weekend getaway. A visit to the Adirondacks is not complete without a historic ride up the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway to the top of New York State’s fifth-highest peak at 4,867 feet. Along the way, you’ll ride through the hamlet of North Pole, NY with Santa’s Workshop which is sure to bring a smile. Soon after, you’ll hit the toll house and have numerous rest spots along the way to catch your breath and for photo ops. At the top, you can access the summit lookout via the Alpine Nature Trail, where you can enjoy truly spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Adirondacks, New England and Canada. The Whiteface Region offers a wide array of lodging options from cozy bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels, and cabins to campgrounds, private rentals, lodges and classic Adirondack camps.

Lake Placid

The Lake Placid region has more secondary roads and scenic tours with spectacular views than you can explore in a single trip to the area. The views are so spectacular that sometimes it’s hard to keep both wheels on the pavement. The internationally famous 56km Ironman Lake Placid

REGION NEW YORK, U.S.A ACCOMMODATION A wide selection of options from cosy B&B’s to 5-star hotels DINING Amazing options from eateries to pubs and restaurants, from local cuisine to fine dining. CYCLING • 24.4km Acres of Apples • Fort to Fort Loop • 26.1km Iron to Iron • 27-mile Ticonderga to Westport • 30-mile Westport to Keeseville • 30 or 43-mile Ride for the River • Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway • 56km Ironman Lake Placid Loop • 8.2km River Road • Adirondack Coast Bikeways • 750km Empire State Trail ATTRACTIONS • Adirondack Mountains • Ausable Chasm • North Pole, NY • Lake Placid Olympic Center Museum • Olympic Ski Jumping Complex • Olympic Bobsled & Luge Complex • Whiteface Gondola • High Falls Gorge • Jay Covered Bridge GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Burlington Int’l (BTV) • Montreal Int’l (YUL) • Pearson Int’l (YYZ) 115km away • Saranac Lake (SLK)

WHITEFACE REGION www.whitefaceregion. com LAKE PLACID VISITORS BUREAU www.lakeplacid.com

31 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

LAKE CHAMPLAIN REGION www.lakechamplainregion.com

32 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Loop brings cyclists to Lake Placid from all over the world. Take in the Olympic Center Museum, Ski Jumping Complex, Bobsled & Luge Complex, Whiteface Gondola Ride or High Falls Gorge as you experience the gorgeous Cascade Lakes. The River Road route is another local favourite that boasts excellent views in both directions for a 4.1-mile one-way or 8.2-mile down-and-back excursion. Catch breathtaking views of the High Peaks and Ski Jumps. Don’t miss the Adirondack Coast Bikeways, the premiere network of 14 themed loops, part of the 1,600 miles of the Lake Champlain Bikeways, which circumnavigate Lake Champlain and extend into Quebec, Canada. The Lake Placid Region offers a wide variety of accommodation options, fabulous eateries and breweries, along with a vibrant arts scene for a memorable visit. Welcoming cyclists and visitors of all stripes, the Adirondack region has launched a “Politely Adirondack” Bike Safety campaign to ensure everyone has fun safely.

PerformanceLine

ETILITY DESIGN. A BETTER RIDE. MORE CARGO & GOOD LOOKS The Benno Boost, with Etility® Design, is up for anything and able to carry more than 3x the load of a typical bike. Flatten hills and shorten distances with the industry leading Bosch mid-drive electric motor and dual battery option, delivering unrivaled performance with up to 160miles of range. The award-winning Boost is many bikes in one, with a smart, interchangeable rack and rail system that lets you pick and choose from dozens of possible configurations to suit the mission and your lifestyle.

www.bennobikes.com

ENDLESS MOUNTAINS

34 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

The organizers have installed a divider route creating eastern and western sections to facilitate the enjoyment of the route for all levels of riders. The route also utilizes a large portion of the 2021 Pennsylvania Trail of the Year, the 38-mile Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Rail-Trail in Susquehanna County. The Endless Mountains region is home to countless backcountry dirt roads, quaint and historic downtowns, stunning scenic overlooks, award-winning trails, state and county parks and picturesque creeks and streams, including the majestic Susquehanna River, recently voted as the 2023 Pennsylvania River of the Year. Traversing four counties, including Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming, the route passes through or nearby five state parks including Ricketts Glen, Worlds End, Mt. Pisgah, Salt Springs and Vosburg Neck, along with the Loyalsock State Forest. The Endless Mountains Bicycle Friendly Business Program, created in conjunction with the EMGBL, provides the opportunity for various local businesses and organizations in the region to ensure cyclists have hospitable access to repairs and charging stations, supplies and lodging for their trip. There are countless accommodation options in the area, from rental cabins to tent and trailer campsites, inns, bed and breakfasts, hotels and more. For re-fueling you’ll find restaurants, wineries, microbreweries, pubs, cafés and farmer’s markets, along with museums and historical societies, theatres, festivals and events, retreats, spas and wellness boutiques. The Endless Mountains are also home to the historic Tunkhannock Viaduct, built in classic Roman-style and considered one the engineering wonders of the world. In 2022, local officials were stoked to learn that Grinduro, the first truly global gravel/mountain bike enduro event series, had been selected Sullivan County as their U.S. stop for a 70-mile loop. That year, the series included stops in California, Switzerland, Wales and Australia. The region is a recreational wonderland with lakes and waterfalls, and it offers many other outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, running, climbing, kayaking, fishing, boating, bird watching, hunting, horseback riding, backpacking and canoeing. Winter activities include skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling. The rolling hills and pastoral landscapes of the Endless Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania are a haven for mountain bikers. There is an interactive map with various points of interest that riders can use to plot out their trip. The route can then be downloaded via Strava or Ride with GPS.

PHOTOS: ENDLESS MOUNTAINS

Cycling the new Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop (EMGBL) in northeastern Pennsylvania is a dream come true for mountain bikers. The amazing mixed-surface route comprising well over 400 miles boasts more than 32,000 feet in elevation changes throughout and can be tackled as one mammoth cycling adventure, or cycled in sections over time.

The Endless Mountains bikepacking route is a “work in progress” and is being improved over time with feedback and input from testers and cyclists using the trails as EMGBL aims to ensure the best cycling experience possible. The EMGBL has been created and developed through a partnership between multiple organizations, including the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency and the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission.

REGION PENNSYLVANIA, U.S.A. ACCOMMODATION Countless options from camping, to rental cabins, tent & trailer campsites, inns, bed & breakfasts, and hotels DINING A wide variety of dining options including wineries, microbreweries, pubs, and cafes CYCLING • 400-mile bike packing loop with over 32,000 feet of elevation • 38-mile Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Rail-Trail • 70km Grinduro gravel/mountain bike enduro event • Class 1 e-bikes welcome on most trails ATTRACTIONS • State Parks: Ricketts Glen, Worlds End, Mt. Pisgah, Salt Springs, Vosburg Neck • Loyalsock State Forest • Historic Tunkhannock Viaduct ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Golf, hiking, running, climbing, kayaking, fishing, boating, bird watching, horseback riding, backpacking, hunting, canoeing, skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling. GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Int’l, 45 min away • Harrisburg Int’l (MDT), 2.5 hours away ENDLESS MOUNTAINS VISITORS BUREAU

endlessmountains.org BRADFORD COUNTY TOURISM PROMOTION AGENCY

570-265-1727 bradfordcountypa.org/ MAPPING FOR ROUTE https://emheritage.org/ endless-mountains-gravel-bikepacking-loop/

35 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

570-836-5431

REGION WISCONSIN, U.S.A. ACCOMMODATION Many lodging options in Cable, Hayward, Bayfield, Washburn

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, fishing, boating

36 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ATTRACTIONS Hayward’s Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, world’s largest mounted musky at the Moccasin Bar, Cable Natural History Museum, Historic Main Street Hayward, Big Top Chautauqua, Wilderness Walk Zoo & Western Town, The Park Center GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Duluth Int’l Airport (DLH) 80 miles away • Minneapolis–Saint Paul Int’l Airport (MSP) 140 miles away CHEQUAMEGON AREA MOUNTAIN BIKE ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 141 Cable, WI 54821 USA info@cambatrails.org www.cambatrails.org

CHEQUAMEGON MTB TRAILS

Located in northern Wisconsin, the Chequamegon Trails feature one of the most amazing mountain-bike trail networks in the USA. With over 130 miles of singletrack mountain-bike trails and 200+ miles of gravel routes, the renowned system lies in the Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest, a 1,530,647acre U.S. National Forest. The network is managed by the Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA), whose vision is to offer the premier off-road riding destination in the upper Midwest. CAMBA also hosts exceptional events and programs, all while utilizing the trails to build community and drive economic enhancement. The massive trail network includes the Bayfield and northern Sawyer County Forests, covering nearly a million acres of riding to satisfy your mountain or gravel bike dreams. Trails are based in the towns of Bayfield, Cable, Hayward, Namakagon and Seeley, and CAMBA recently announced the approval of Class 1 e-bikes on many of its trails. One of the area’s most popular events is the Chequamegon MTB Festival, celebrating its 40th edition this year on Sept. 16. Featuring three races, the activities include the headliner 40-mile Chequamegon 40; the jampacked 16-mile Short & Fat; and the Little Loggers for mountain bikers-in-training. The festival attracts top riders and enthusiasts from across the United States, including international participants. Along with the fabulous races, you can enjoy live music, craft beer and savoury food truck eats. As a year-round cycling destination with incredible gravel riding, CAMBA also grooms 70+ miles of trails for winter riding, thus creating a proverbial cycling adventure paradise.

@CHEQMTBFESTIVAL

CYCLING • over 130 miles of singletrack mountain-bike trails • 200+ miles of gravel routes • 70+ miles of trails for winter riding • Seeley Big Fat Race in January • Chequamegon 100 Races in June • Clinics for adults • CAMBA Kids for youth • 40th annual Chequamegon MTB Festival • Epic Bike Fest • Hungry Bear Gravel Race

PHOTOS: @CAMBATRAILS

DINING Wide range of dining and eateries in the region

REGION HAVANA, CUBA

ACCOMMODATION Many great options on all of the tours offered by Aventuras CanBiCuba

PHOTOS: ADVENTOURAS CANBICUBA

DINING A wide range of amazing dining options

CYCLING CUBA

GETTING THERE Nearest airport: • José Martí International Airport (HAV) located 20 km (12 mi) southwest of Havana AVENTURAS CANBICUBA S.A. Havana, Cuba

Aventuras CanbiCuba works closely with a number of high school cycling teams and clubs. Given that Cuban cycling shops are not of the calibre as those in North America, they encourage their guests to support them with donations of used bike and bike parts.

www.bicyclebreeze.net

37 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

ATTRACTIONS • Sierra Maestra • Fidel Castro’s birth place • Viñales Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site • María la Gorda • Bellamar Caves • Puente de Bucunayagua • Havana Velodromo • La Habana Vieja • Re-enactment of the Closing of the City • Malecón seaside boulevard • Sierra de los Rosario biosphere • Cueva de los Portales (Che Guevara headquarters) • San Diego de los Baños • Pinar del Río • Varadero beaches • Xanadú Mansion

For cycling adventures of a lifetime, Cuba is a destination that’s hard to beat, and Aventuras CanBiCuba has been delivering amazing road, gravel and mountain bike adventures there for over 20 years. Known for its great cycling culture, Cuba is simply a wonderful place to ride with natural beauty, friendly people, fabulous beaches, heritage sites and much more. Experience one of the best single-day rides in the world on the Celia Sanchez Tribute route along the coastal road where the Sierra Maestra falls to the sea — the breathtaking vistas will stay with you forever. The Guantanamo Mango is a 12-day cycling adventure along the coastal lowlands and scenic mountains into the backwoods of eastern Cuba where you can explore exotic roads as you discover Fidel Castro’s birthplace along with a dedicated ride to Cuba’s highest waterfall. The Fat Mary Bike Tour in western Cuba is a 10-day cycling adventure that takes you from Matanzas to Havana, where you can explore the treasures of the capital city. From quiet backroads to turquoise beaches, and unique limestone formations at Viñales Valley, this amazing tour includes visits to famous caves, and ancient coffee farms. Cayo y Seis Ciudades is another fabulous tour featuring Cuba’s stunning landscapes with its many hidden gems. Explore beautiful beaches on the south and north coasts, including overnight stays in six of Cuba’s most historically significant and interesting colonial cities. These top-rated cycling tours are designed by the owners of Aventuras CanBiCuba, Canadian Peter Marshall and his wife Ana, who live in Havana. While their core business is fully supported trips, they’re happy to work with folks on self-guided bikepacking tours, and they offer bike rentals as well.

CYCLING • Celia Sanchez Tribute • Guantanamo Mango • Fat Mary Bike Tour • Cayo y Seis Ciudades • Fully supported trips • Bike Packing self guided tours • Rentals including e-bikes

PHOTOS: EUROVELO

Celebrating its 25th anniversary last year, EuroVelo is one of the European Cyclists’ Federation’s flagship initiatives that boasts 17 remarkable bicycle routes comprising over 90,000 km, 64% of which are developed. With a vision to have a fully developed and high-quality cycle route network by 2030, EuroVelo’s popularity garners 2.1 million web visitors annually with 7,500+ newsletter subscribers. As it has continued to grow and expand, the organization launched GPX tracks for EuroVelo routes in the summer of 2022, along with the #EuroVeloForYouth campaign last fall. Here’s a snapshot of five of its most popular routes.

WALLONIE BELGIQUE TOURISME

38 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

EUROVELO’S REMARKABLE CYCLING ROUTES

REGION EUROPE ACCOMMODATION Amazing variety of options to suit every budget from pitching a tent, to fancy hotels. DINING Incredible culinary experiences await you from the finest French wines to seafood delights in Portugal and everything in between

Stretching the length of Europe’s west coast, the amazing and daunting Atlantic Coast EuroVelo 1 route covers 11,000km and connects some of the world’s most beautiful seascapes in Norway, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, England, France, Spain and Portugal. Beginning at the northernmost point of Europe at Norway’s North Cape on the Barents Sea coast, you’ll ride south as you say goodbye to the midnight sun. Discover 14 UNESCO sites along the way as you take in the wild Irish coastline, the coast of France with its fabulous cycling trail La Vélodyssée, and the sun-kissed beaches of Portugal. Discover dramatic landscapes along with historic, natural, cultural and gastronomic attractions from bustling port cities to cozy fishing villages for cycling memories of a lifetime.

Atlantic–Black Sea Route - EuroVelo 6

EuroVelo’s Atlantic to Black Sea journey is one of its most popular routes, given its flat topography and amazing coasts, rivers and castles, including top-class infrastructure. Featuring 11 UNESCO sites, the 4,700km adventure traverses 10 countries including famous sections along the Loire and the Danube Rivers that are known to cycling tourists the world over. There’s so much to experience, including enjoying the best wines in France after cycling through vineyards, Vienna’s stunning museums, Ulm’s tallest cathedral in the world, along with Serbia’s welcoming people and staggering Djerdap National Park. Along with six rivers and plenty of amenities, EuroVelo 6 features some of Europe’s greatest cities, stunning landscapes, national parks and cascading waterfalls, making this route every cyclist’s dream journey.

Mediterranean Route - EuroVelo 8

The 7,600km Mediterranean Route from Spain to Türkiye is a stunning southern European coastal cycling journey that invites you with sparkling emerald seas, kilometres of golden sand, mysterious islands, wonderful food and ancient cities. Featuring 23 UNESCO sites and traversing 10 countries, who can resist the Mediterranean’s charm as you embrace the romance of Venice’s canals or pull your bike up alongside a waiting beach? From Barcelona’s mind-blowing architecture to the Roman Agora of Izmir, Türkiye, there are still plenty of undiscovered gems to be found along the way, such as Croatia’s 1,000 kilometres of lush coastline and attractive hinterland. Your bike beckons as the EuroVelo 8 route welcomes you to experience the wonders of cycling tourism at many popular tourist destinations en route and so much more.

ATTRACTIONS • UNESCO World Heritage Sites • Djerdap National Park • Joan of Arc Region • Three Countries Bridge • RijnWaalpad • Rotterdam’s underwater tunnel • Izmir’s Roman Agora • Bonnefanten Museum • Rhine River source • Vienna’s stunning museums • French vineyards • Ulm Minster GETTING THERE Nearest airports: • Heathrow Int’l Airport (LHR) • Paris Charles de Gaulle Int’l Airport (CDG) • Frankfurt Int’l Airport (FRA) • Brussels Int’l Airport (BRU) EUROVELO/ EUROPEAN CYCLISTS’ FEDERATION www.eurovelo.com

39 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

Atlantic Coast Route - EuroVelo 1

CYCLING • 11,000km Atlantic Coast Route • 4,700 Atlantic-Black Sea Route • 7,600km Mediterranean Route • 1,500 Rhine Cycle Route • 1,050km Meuse Cycle Route • La Vélodyssée in France • Croatia’s 1,000km of coastline • 12 additional EuroVelo routes • 90,000km of bicycle routes

Rhine Cycle Route - EuroVelo 15

From the source of the Rhine in the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine Cycle Route runs 1,500km along one of the longest rivers in Europe and meets the highquality European Certification Standard, meaning that it’s suitable for riders of all fitness levels and abilities. Explore the beauty of this river landscape, along with picturesque towns and villages lining its banks as you cycle through timeless adventures that meld a cultural and economic dialogue between the Alpine regions and Northern Europe for over 2,000 years. Highlights include Rotterdam’s underwater cycling tunnel, the RijnWaalpad, one of the oldest cycle highways, and the Three Countries Bridge, the world’s longest self-supported cycling & walking bridge which connects Germany and France via Switzerland. An incredible culinary experience is offered as well — this enchanted route connects nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites through four countries including Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands.

Meuse Cycle Route - EuroVelo 19

40 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

The Meuse Cycle Route is one of the newest members of the EuroVelo family since joining the network in 2019. Although it is one of the shortest at 1,050km, it’s one of the top five most popular routes. Welcoming cyclists of all levels, the attractive and varied route follows one of the most important rivers in Europe as you discover France, Belgium and the Netherlands. If you are a fan of old castles, the route embraces the region of Joan of Arc in France, while in Belgium you can visit Namur, one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites on EuroVelo 19. Take time for some memorable photos in the vibrant city of Maastricht while visiting the Bonnefanten museum. Whether you’re pitching a tent, enjoying a fancy hotel, or having a memorable night in an unusual accommodation such as a castle, stop to enjoy many culinary treasures on the Meuse Cycle Route.

9TH ANNUAL

BENEFITING ADAPTIVE PROGRAM The 2023 CXC Bike Drawing winner will choose between Trek Fuel EX 9.8 XT Gen 6 Trail, Madone SL 7 Road, Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gravel, or Farley 9 Winter Edition Fat Bike. We have 250 limited edition tickets available for purchase at a price of Sl00 each. Starting in May, the tickets will be up for sale, and sales will cease once all 250 tickets are sold. A winner will be selected during a live-streamed drawing in July, and it's not necessary to be present to win. The funds raised from the event will be used to support the Central Cross Country Skiing (CXC) Adaptive Program. The program aims to produce and distribute adaptive sit-ski equipment to help people with disabilities learn cross-country skiing.

"Our son got to enjoy the Nordic sit ski ... .,-r received through the CXC program. The \ shorter skis and lighter frame allowed him , to make easier turns. It worked well for him, and he had a really good time!" - Silviana Marculescu, Edmonds, WA

GET TICKETS

@cxcskiing.org/drawing •

GREAT ESCAPES ...MORE GREAT TRAILS

www.nelsonkootenaylake.com

42 BEST CYCLING GREAT ESCAPES 2023

PEI’s renowned Confederation Trail winds 273 kilometres from Tignish to Elmira, and connects with 170 additional kilometres of side trails, that are mostly flat. Heritage villages and unique landmarks are everywhere such as the Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary. Many of PEI’s 45 lobster fishing communities are accessible from the trail and its offshoots, and you can enjoy the red-shelled delicacy along with a pint or growler from the Island’s many exceptional craft breweries and cideries. www.tourismpei.com

See you out there...

www.blueroute.ca

OKANAGAN RAIL TRAIL, BC

OKANAGAN RAIL RIDE

CREDIT TOURISM PEI

CONFEDERATION TRAIL, PEI

Launched in 2015, Nova Scotia’s fabulous Blue Route is a 3,000km cycling network designed to connect communities via designated cycling routes on secondary highways with paved shoulders, low-traffic volume roads, hard surfaced trails, and city streets. About 500km of the Blue Route have been completed, and the trails are open to e-bikes. A Bicycle Route Wayfinding Guide has been integrated to ensure a safe and seamless experience for cyclists of all levels.

The third annual Okanagan Rail Trail ride runs Sept. 10 this year and features a fabulous journey along beautiful Kalamalka Lake between Coldstream and Lake Country. Enjoy a fully supported cycling adventure on an amazing 52km route with a post-ride barbeque including drinks and live music for a perfect summer day. There will be three refreshment stations and bring your camera as there are many cultural and recreational stops en route, for stunning views and memories of a lifetime. www.okanaganrailride.com

MOUNTAIN MADNESS CYCLE TOURS

Imagine a light breeze, scenic lakeside views and the open road, and you’ll be in the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region. With several cycling routes, and low traffic, find your groove as you explore the most gorgeous scenery you’ll ever experience. Choose from well maintained roads, or remote steep gravel grinders, with our half day rides or multi day loops. Along the way find ample cafes, rest stops and accommodations, to make a truly memorable cycling experience.

BLUE ROUTE, NS

BICYCLE NOVA SCOTIA

NELSON KOOTENAY LAKE TOURISM/JANNEKE GUENTHER

NELSON & KOOTENAY LAKE REGION, BC

ALL-NEW DOMANE+ SLR E-ROAD BIKE

EVERY THING YOU LOVE ABOUT ROAD RIDING, NOTHING YOU DON’T

Domane+ SLR is an electric road bike unlike ever before. It looks sounds, fits, and feels like a traditional road bike, with a seamless boost that kicks in for steep climbs, windy days, and far-out destinations. Weighing in at just around 26 pounds with an impressive ~100 kilometer range that can be extended to ~145 kilometers* with the optional Range Extender, Domane+ SLR lets you take the tailwind with you and leave your limits behind. *In eco mode

TREKBIKES.COM