Travelling by bike: discover perfect regions for a two‑wheeled getaway

Bicycle touring continues to grow in popularity. The beauty of this way of travelling is that it isn’t just for seasoned cyclists—it’s accessible to vacationers of all levels. In southern Québec, four neighbouring regions are brimming with attractions for road and gravel cyclists and mountain trail enthusiasts. Get to know these regions through vacation plans designed for those seeking to pedal a little, a lot or non‑stop!

The empress of bicycle routes celebrates 30 years

In 2025, the Route verte is celebrating 30 years of serving cyclists. Launched by Vélo Québec, this visionary initiative led to the creation of a network of over 5,300 kilometres. It’s the longest cycling route in North America!

Providing a link between the regions and from Québec to its neighbours, the Route verte embodies the art of slow travel. Taking this route means pedalling through exceptional settings and getting closer to the local communities that call them home. For three decades now, this network has made Québec a world benchmark for bicycle tourism.

Destination: Eastern Townships

In the Eastern Townships, every kilometre is an invitation to take up bicycle touring. Here, there’s something for everyone: panoramic roads, gravel paths and gourmet routes make for outings that benefit the body and the mind. In fact, the region is home to a section of the Véloroute gourmande. The route linking Montréal to Sherbrooke—and passing through the Montérégie region—is dotted with epicurean and agritourism stops.

This summer, you can also explore newly inaugurated itineraries, including the Sir Lyster route (paved surface) or the Boucle des Érables (gravel surface). The more adventurous can also take to the trails with three new adventure cycling circuits. The first of these new routes, The Gravel Foodie Route, offers 230 kilometres of delicious wandering over three days.

Where to sleep?

To give your calves a rest, pedal toward Camping Aventure Mégantic, a certified Bienvenue cyclistes. establishment. Pitch your tent or opt for the comfort of a “pod,” one of the many ready‑to‑camp options on site.

Destination: Montérégie

Another must‑see cycling destination is the Montérégie. The region boasts 640 kilometres of bicycle paths—the largest network of its kind in the province! You’ll be treated to a mosaic of landscapes, at times riding along the water, but also along farmland and sunflower fields. In these idyllic surroundings, every pedal stroke brings you a little closer to nature.

Favourite routes in the area are the Soulanges bike path and the Beauharnois canal both offering a pleasant ride and the soothing sound of lapping water. For a family outing, check out La Montérégiade. With its gentle slopes and well‑kept paths, this former railway line offers a nature trail accessible to all cyclists. Lastly, the Montérégie segment of the Véloroute gourmande covers some 100 kilometres of pure delight.

Where to sleep?

From camping to more luxurious accommodations, the Montérégie region is brimming with great spots where you can spend a restful night. Among them, the exceptional Eau Villa cottages will see you sleeping on the water, in the heart of the Chambly marina. Each floating home features a terrace, a spa and an incredible view of the Rivière Richelieu.

Destination: Chaudière-Appalaches

In Chaudière-Appalaches, the region’s superb terrain is a fantastic playground for mountain bikers. Ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy pedalling up mountains, racing down them... and then doing it all over again! But whether you’re a fan of technical descents or would prefer a more leisurely ride, there’s plenty to tempt you. For instance, in Lévis, you can follow the river by riding along the Parcours des Anses, one of the region’s most beautiful cycling corridors.

This summer, the Station touristique du Massif du Sud is unveiling its first mountain biking trails, making it a four-season destination. Between Mont Adstock, Mont Orignal and Mont Saint-Georges, the region offers a wide array of technical trails, rolling sections, curves and climbs. For a gentle introduction, the Parc régional des Appalaches offers an easy 14.5‑kilometre ride through the sphagnum moss and carnivorous plants of a peat bog.

Where to sleep?

With 150 campsites, forest shelters and several ready-to-camp units, the Parc des Appalaches offers accommodations to suit all tastes.

Destination: Centre-du-Québec

Some 1,000 kilometres of road circuits make the Centre-du-Québec a must for two‑wheeled vacations. In fact, the region is a pioneer in the development of gravel biking, a discipline with a growing following. Riding between the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the plains of the St. Lawrence, you’ll have the choice of quietly contemplating the horizon or testing your endurance. Because here, there’s something for everyone!

The Véloroute des Appalaches is a terrific gateway for exploring the region: it offers 12 well‑marked road circuits along with 9 gravel bike paths. Families will also be delighted with itineraries such as The Little Adventure, a three‑day loop. Shuttle and baggage transport services allow you to travel light. And for a more ambitious excursion, try La Grande Boucle, a route linking Centre-du-Québec with its equally bike‑loving neighbours, Montérégie and the Eastern Townships.

Let the experts plan your cycling trip

The Association des réceptifs et forfaitistes du Québec comprises agencies, tour operators and receptive operators who create turnkey packages for discovering Québec. Certain association members, such as Vélo Québec Voyages, Ekilib – Le Monde à Vélo, Gendronvélo (a division of Voyages Gendron) and Vitesse Bonheur/Bougex (operated by Groupe Voyages Québec), specialize in tailor‑made cycling getaways across Québec.

When you deal with these specialists, you make your life easier and enjoy exclusive rates, sound advice and assistance before, during and after your trip. Something came up? In the event of a cancellation or change in plans, you’ll benefit from advantageous policies and automatic protection from the Compensation Fund for Customers of Travel Agents.