Discover the Gentle Island

Bike Across PEI

What do you do with an abandoned railway line? You turn it into a 400km-long recreational trail that runs directly across the most gentle of islands, and a lovely adventure for cyclists. The gravel trail runs through forests, rivers, farmland, restored station fronts and small towns with famous maritime hospitality. Great Canadian Trails have customized an itinerary that takes in the best of the trail, along with highlights like Gulfshore Parkway and Cavendish. This week-long journey further eases the load by having all your luggage transferred to inns and B&B’s up ahead, allowing you to explore the island tip-to-tip, and beverage-to-beverage. Biking across PEI is ideal for all ages, at all paces.

Length of Trip : 7 Days

Cost : Great Canadian Trails offer a 7-day “Explore PEI by Bike” itinerary. The trip includes:

  • 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners
  • 6 nights accommodation on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • 21-speed hybrid bicycle including helmet, panniers, bike lock, basic repair kit, and bicycle insurance
  • Luggage transfer (1 piece per person)
  • Information pack including route notes and maps
  • Emergency hotline
  • Transfers as indicated in the itinerary
  • $100 donation to the Trans Canada Trail

 

Best time to go : Early June to Mid-September

Wheelchair friendly : No

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : Charlottetown: The Churchill Arms: It’s unusual to find a pub in the Maritimes serving up the best butter chicken in the country, but repeated visits over the years prove the case. Great beers, atmosphere, and awesome curries (dip a chip!) in this popular local hangout.
The Water-Prince Corner Shop: Looking for your lobster dinner? Look no further. Huge portions of tasty blue mussels, potato and bun served with your sweet and tender lobster. Unpretentious and friendly, there are celebrity photos on the walls because the Water Prince is a cherished institution.
Brackley Beach: The Dunes Gallery: A must-stop when you’re checking out the Gulfshore Parkway. Beyond the art and souvenirs, terrific lunches and festive events too.
North Rustico: Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant – huge restaurant with all-you-can-eat buffet salad and mussels, and 26,000lbs of lobster in the tanks.
Victoria-by-the-Sea: Lobster Barn Pub and Eatery – known for their fresh lobsters and scallops.
Souris: Blue Fin Restaurant (10 Federal Ave) – Excellent value, friendly staff, and serious pie to wash it all down.

Official Site : Explore PEI by Bike
The Confederation Trail Cycling Guide

Where to Stay : Accommodations are arranged along with your itinerary through Great Canadian Trails. When in Charlottetown, I’ve always liked the attention to detail and staff at The Great George, and it’s sister hotel, the Hotel on Pownal Street, both within a few minutes walk of Queen Street.

Getting There : While you can hop onto the Confederation Trail anywhere along it, most tours begin and end in PEI’s capital, Charlottetown.Air Canada flies direct to Charlottetown from Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Ottawa. Delta Airlines has a seasonal flight from New York.

Note from Robin : When using the Confederation Trail, respect its code:

  • Keep to the trail
  • Respect private property
  • Guard against all risk of fire
  • Keep your dog under close control
  • Leave livestock, crops and machinery alone
  • Take your litter home and keep all waterways clean
  • Protect wildlife, plants and trees
  • Make no unnecessary noise
  • Enjoy the countryside and respect its life and work

Great Canadian Trails also offer a second PEI biking itinerary, with longer days and more time on the bike. Learn more about the Tip to Tip and Beyond here.

confederation_trail_map

Great Canadian Trails