Highlights along the Trans Canada TrailLearn More
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • 6 days self-guided cycling
Accommodation
  • 7 nights inns/b&b's
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1920USD

* All prices subject to applicable taxes

THIS TRIP IS
100% CARBON OFFSET
Read More

Trip Code: CDR

Overview

Trip highlights

  • Cycle the historical route between Montreal and Quebec City
  • Admire the picturesque landscapes along the St. Lawrence River
  • Indulge in local specialties, maple syrup, wines, and craft beers
  • Step back in the time of New France as you wander around old towns
  • Explore Old Quebec City, its fortified town and a 400 year legacy of colonial architecture

Experience the beauty and history of Quebec’s King’s Road (Chemin du Roy) on a self-guided bike touring adventure. This multi-day cycling tour follows the heritage route stretching over 280 km/174 miles between Montreal and Quebec City, part of the Route Verte trail network. At the beginning of the 18th century, the French crown decreed the build of King’s Road alongside the St. Lawrence River. It crossed 37 seigneuries granted to nobles, merchants and religious congregations of New France. The subjects who made use of the land along the river were responsible for establishing the section of the road in front of their land. This feudal system of colonization and development resulted in the longest road north of the Rio Grande. Today you can cycle King’s Road and explore its many heritage sites, historical villages, beautiful landscape and the marvellous architecture of the old towns from the New France period. This adventure is also about enjoying the famous “joie de vivre” of the Quebecers, discovering wineries, savouring delicious local products fresh from the farmer’s markets and tasting local beer at one of many excellent microbreweries.

Activities:
Grading:
4

Introductory to Moderate

More info about grading system

Rating: 

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Please make your way to the joining hotel in Montréal, located conveniently downtown, near a variety of restaurants and eclectic shops. The island of Montréal was originally a diplomatic trading area for regional First Nations valued for its strategic location on the St Lawrence River. Eventually, it became a bustling port city now also home to art galleries, museums, beautiful patios and gastronomic restaurants. Montréal represents a mosaic of cultures and traditions worth exploring. You may wish to arrive a day or two before your cycling tour starts.

Meals:  Nil

You will be fitted for your bikes from a pre-determined location outside your accommodation. While there is some road biking today within Montreal and on the way to Terrebonne, you will be using scenic bike paths where possible and passing through multiple beautiful parks within the city. By the end of the day’s ride, you will have reached Old Terrebonne, known for the magnificent architecture of its 18th and 19th century seigneurial buildings, cultural events and sites, and a huge network of cycling paths.

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you will ride on the TransTerrebonne bike path, which parallels the Rivière des Mille Îles, before rejoining King's Road near Repentigny. Our route will pass by parks and residential areas before cutting through Repentigny, which features a historic landmark known as the Moulin Grenier, a mill built in 1820. After passing a few wineries and stretches of farmland, you will reach your accommodation in Berthierville. This charming town features the Gilles-Villeneuve museum, dedicated to the legendary racecar driver and the local bakery, known for their classic potato donuts.

Meals:  B

The day's route passes several plots of farmland and charming communities on your way to Pointe-du-Lac, located just west of Trois-Rivières. As you cycle through the quaint towns of Louiseville and Yamachiche, enjoy the architecture of historical buildings such as impressive town halls and beautiful churches, including the famous St. Antony of Padua. Stop in and enjoy the historic café, old-fashioned candy store and museum at the 'Magasin général Le Brun' on the route. You will pass through parks, terraces and heritage panels before arriving in Pointe-du-Lac, which offers remarkable views of the St. Lawrence River. If you plan on extending your stay, we recommend spending an extra night here since it is within easy cycling distance of Trois-Rivières and its many cultural or historical attractions.

Meals:  B

Today you will cycle through Trois-Rivières, the second oldest city in Quebec and one of the first cities in Canada. We recommend taking in the sites on your way through, such as the old historic district home to the Old Prison, once the longest-operating detention centre in Canada. If time permits, you may visit its museums that include exhibits on Quebec's culture. The parks and promenades of Trois-Rivières also feature some beautiful green spaces. After you leave the city, the views while you ride will be impressive due to your proximity to the water. You will spend the night in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade, a small but charming town that offers scenic views from the nearby bridge.

Meals:  B

Another great cycling day along the St. Lawrence River awaits you. We recommend starting your ride by taking a minor detour to explore the Moulin à vent de Grondines built in 1674 and is said to be the oldest windmill in Quebec. Today you will also pass the Moulin de la Chevrotière, now recognized as a historical monument. Our bike route then takes you through several lovely towns where you can sample local delicacies and stop by one of the microbreweries encountered on today's route.

Meals:  B

While the distance covered this day is shorter and generally rolls downhill, you will want to prepare some intensive uphill sections. The King's Road meanders around, up and down several hills as you approach Quebec City. We recommend stopping in at a charming Québécois sugar shack located right off the road for lunch and some maple syrup. The cycling path leads you along the water's edge downtown into Old Quebec City. A fortified historical and cultural heart of Québec City and a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will be staying in or near the Old town tonight, and the treasured city will be available for you to explore. Québec City has plenty to see and do, and we suggest extending your stay. We can assist with reserving extra nights so that you can fully experience one of the oldest European cities in North America.

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you will have some time to explore the city. This is followed by a shuttle that is scheduled for the afternoon to return you and your bikes to the bike shop in Montréal where the trip concludes.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 7 breakfasts
  • 7 nights in 3-star accommodation on a double occupancy basis
  • Transfers as indicated in the itinerary
  • Luggage transfers (1 piece per person 20 kg max)
  • Hybrid bicycle rental including helmet, repair kit, 1 or 2 panniers, rear rack and lock
  • Navigation APP inclusive of detailed route notes and points of interest
  • Emergency Hotline

  • Optional electric-assist bicycle upgrade (extra cost, limited quantities)
  • Guide (this is a self-guided tour)
  • Lunch and Dinner unless listed otherwise (suggestions are provided)
  • Transfer within Montreal to the bike shop
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
  • Airfare, visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Applicable taxes

Accommodation

Charming B&B's and Motels

Accommodation on this trip is a combination of 3-star hotels and B&B's. Each has been chosen for its convenient location, local character, and quality. The trip price is based on 2 people per room. Please indicate if you prefer to share a bed, or have separate beds. A single supplement is available for those wishing to secure their own rooms, subject to availability.

Charming B&B's and Motels

Accommodation on this trip is a combination of 3-star hotels and B&B's. Each has been chosen for its convenient location, local character, and quality. The trip price is based on 2 people per room. Please indicate if you prefer to share a bed, or have separate beds. A single supplement is available for those wishing to secure their own rooms, subject to availability.

Bike information

Hybrid Bike

Modern hybrids suitable for road and mild off-road use with eighteen to twenty-four gears. They are provided with bike bag, helmet, lock, and basic tool kit. E-bikes upgrades are possible upon request, subject to availability.

E-bike

E-bike upgrades are possible upon request, subject to availability. Equipped with bike bag and rear rack, helmet, lock, and basic tool kit. Great option for a boost and extra pedal-power.

Suitability

Introductory to Moderate

4

Introductory to moderate. The King's Road is a moderate, mostly flat, and paved 280 km/174 miles road cycling route with some bike paths, paved shoulders, and designated low-traffic road surfaces. Distances each day are short but cyclists should be prepared for some steep hills, especially near Quebec City. Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!). Cyclists will be expected to know how to fix a flat tire and make basic adjustments to their bicycles using the included repair kit. Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of if as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7-day service hotline in the event of any problems.

Departure dates

Saturdays to Tuesdays from mid-May through Mid-October

Notes

Note:
Some accommodations may not have twin rooms. If you do not wish to share a bed with your travel companion you will have to pay a single supplement on those nights. Rooms with two beds may require an additional fee.
Note:
A high season supplement applies from July 16 to Aug 8, 2024.
Note:
Other dates may be available but have been limited due to service availability restrictions in some areas. Please ask for additional details.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?

Create a custom made itinerary for the perfect adventure. Choose when you travel, what you see and where you go.

Priceper person from

$1920USD

* All prices subject to applicable taxes

Options & Supplements*
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$60
  • Single SupplementUSD$730
* Prices listed are per person. All prices subject to applicable taxes.

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Our Expertise

Everyone who works with us, from our office staff, ground staff and guides is the ‘’real deal’’. Our team is comprised of actual hikers and cyclists who have explored or live in the region in which you will be travelling. Our entire network is highly-specialised in active travel.

Great Value

Quality services at the best price make our adventures great value for money. Having essential items included like National Park fees, charming accommodations, most meals, bikes for cycling trips, maps and support for peace of mind. Our inclusions allow you to better budget for your big adventure.

Innovative Itineraries

We look beyond the horizon to find new and exciting adventures. We’re passionate about shaping the next generation of outdoor travel in Canada, and constantly seek different ways, routes and alternatives to exceed our clients’ dreams.

ECO Friendly

We are committed to responsible travel and true sustainability, formed when the company was established, and in the face of a multitude of threats to the environment, our commitment is stronger than ever. We aim to "leave no trace" in both an environmental and cultural sense.