We arrived at the airport together, checked bags quickly, and watched a brief sunset before boarding. On the flight, I monitored ventilation, slept unusually well, and woke to a disappointing breakfast. In Amsterdam, efficient transit, bicycles everywhere, a welcoming hotel, and a peaceful walk set the tone for our trip with plans for a museum tomorrow.
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Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Days 11, 12 & Cost
A leisurely 31 km ride led us through Montreal’s calm streets to Jean Talon Market, lush linear parks, and iconic Fairmount Bagel. We explored repurposed streets, colourful murals, bustling pedestrian zones, and waterfront views before tackling the steep climb back to the Oratory. A full day of food, art, green spaces, and discovery.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 10
Lisa and Cindy cycle a relaxed loop through Montreal’s canals while their friends rest. They navigate a flat tire, enjoy scenic multi-use paths with autumn foliage, and stop for lunch at a café. Later they ride through LaSalle and Verdun’s bike-friendly streets, and climb up to the basilica — only to get locked inside unexpectedly.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 9
We enjoyed the best hotel breakfast yet at the whimsical Days Inn Berthierville before setting out on a cool, sunny ride along the St. Lawrence. Smooth roads, fall colours, and a light tailwind made for effortless cycling—until another flat delayed us an hour. Crossing into Montreal, excellent bike paths led us to Saint Joseph’s Oratory, completing our 520 km journey.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 8
Breakfast was included with our hotel last night. We met at 7:30 in the dining area. We were ready to go just before 9. Our hotel was at the intersection of a highway and a busy road. My planned route took us over the highway twice so I looked at the map more closely, andContinue reading “Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 8”
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 7
We rode nearly 90 km from Sherbrooke to Drummondville with one long climb, red maple rows, and a mix of rain and overcast skies. A flat tire and endless red lights slowed us down, but we arrived just in time for dinner—poutine, of course, in the city where the famous dish was born.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 6 – Sherbrooke
last day on the Véloroute Gourmande began with a hearty breakfast at Eggsquis, thanks to a friend’s recommendation. The ride to Sherbrooke brought climbs, scenic trails, and a lunch stop in picturesque North Hatley. We finished the route by exploring Bishop’s University, riverside paths, and Sherbrooke’s vibrant street art before resting for tomorrow’s ride to Drummondville.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 5
A latte and breakfast burrito fueled our 66 km ride to Magog—the hilliest day yet with over 600 m of climbing. We enjoyed Quebec’s stellar cycling infrastructure, autumn colours, and plenty of public art along the way. A wrong turn added adventure, and we finished the day with friends and dinner on a patio.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 4
With only 41 km to ride, we enjoyed a relaxed start and sunny skies. The trails were smooth, scenic, and rich with art and fall colour. After lunch in Granby, we followed Véloroute 4 into Bromont, a charming ski town with a lively main street. We settled into our historic apartment and ended the day content.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 3
We began our seven-day self-supported ride on the Véloroute Gourmande, leaving Montreal’s hills for riverside paths and canal trails. Despite some confusing signage, the ride was scenic and mostly on separated cycling routes. We passed murals, bridges, and autumn colors before finishing 85 km later in Farnham—tired, happy, and grateful for Quebec’s cycling culture.