Summer Bike Tour Recap

Just in time for summer. Here are some posts related to bike touring in Quebec.

Cycling in Quebec is an amazing experience for several reasons. Without having to travel to far you can enjoy a cultural experience unlike anything in the lower 48 states. In addition to the language and food; the historical apsects and the sheer enthusiasm for cycling are evident everywhere. In this first blog post of August 16, 2007 I describe "The State of Cycling in Quebec" .

The reason to visit Quebec by bicycle though is the recently inagurated "La Route Verte", a wonderful trail system that spans much of this French speaking province. As the website states:

Made up of over 4,000 km of bikeways criss-crossing the most beautiful regions of Quebec, the Route verte puts you on the right track for the vacation of your dreams. No matter which bikeway you cycle on—the Parcours des Anses in Lévis, the Véloroute des Bleuets encircling Lac Saint-Jean, the Berri Street bike path in Montreal or the Estriade in the Eastern Townships—you’re riding on the Route verte.

After flying in to Burlington, Vermont we headed north to the border to discover the Canton d'l Este or "Eastern Townships". Due to the Anglo influence in the area the town names are strickingly similar to their New England counterparts. Names such as Windsor, Sherbrooke, Sutton, and Bromtonville give an indication of the areas past. In the Eastern Townships a visit to the Benidictine Abby - St. Benoit du Lac is a must. The abbey is famous for their cheese and ciders which are all produced on site from the abbey's farm and orchards.

Definitly make it a point to visit either Montreal or Quebec City. Quebec City, being the only walled city in North America is a treat to walk around. Set up on a bluff overlooking the Saint Lawrence River is an absolute gem of a town. Also try to get in a ride to the Montmorency Falls about an hour by bike outside of town. Don't worry about not being able to find your way by bike. The trails on La Route Verte are very well marked and there is a Canadian Tourist Office in every town we visited. The staff in these bureaus are extremely helpful and friendly (and speak excellent English).

If you didn't find any of the area worthwhile the food alone will make you want to go. After sampling some of the local food; including Poutine, you really realize we are borderline third world when it comes to food.

Happy Travels