WHAT'S INCLUDED
Meals
All meals included except lunch on the rest day
Light snacks and water at rest stops
Camping
Camping with amenities each day
Pre-ride camping at Fortress of Louisbourg
Support
On-route support and ride guide
SAG vehicle
Bike mechanic
Luggage transport
Plus
Friendly & experienced ride leaders
Cultural experience
Live entertainment
The single best way to explore
Cape Breton is by bike!
Get to know Cape Breton with the ocean air in your face and panoramic views all around on this nine day cycling tour of North America's #1 island destination. Lean into the coastal curves, navigate sweeping bends to spectacular look-offs, pass through quaint fishing villages, UNESCO recognized biospheres and historic townships. You will pedal one of the world's top bicycle rides, the Cabot Trail, but this ride promises so much more. It is the ultimate way to experience Cape Breton.
Why you should cycle Cape Breton
Cape Breton Island is a rider’s paradise and home to some of Canada’s most stunningly impressive cycling routes and trails. Discover the rich history of this rugged island as you camp in Fortress of Louisbourg, an 18th-century French fortress, and enjoy a traditional meal with the Mi'kmaq. Explore the traditional Acadian village of Cheticamp, steeped in history, and listen to the songs and sounds of the island's Gaelic culture. All this while discovering the rich natural beauty Cape Breton is famous for.
CAPE BRETON CYCLING TOUR INFO
CHECK IN:
Check in opens between 3:00pm and 8:00pm Friday June 30 at Fortress of Louisbourg and again from 7:00am on Saturday July 1. Make sure you allow plenty of time to check in, collect your pre-ordered jersey, load your luggage and prep your bike.
START TIME:
Each day the route opens at 9:00am. We will be rolling out in small groups based on the speed you would like to travel at. Don't worry if the group you're in is travelling too fast or slow, simply catch up to the group ahead or wait for the group behind to catch up.
PARKING:
There will be long term parking at Fortress of Louisbourg available. More information will be included in the Ride Guide. To express interest in a transfer from the finish back to Fortress of Louisbourg, please email sean@kohkosevents.ca.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
You can expect to have a fully-supported ride with helpful and friendly volunteers to help along the way. We will be riding on country roads through Cape Breton and while all roads are paved and comfortable to ride on there are some rough patches. We will also be riding on the Trans-Canada at some points where there will be extra rules applied. Over 9 days and 8 nights expects some variable weather conditions so come prepared.
RIDE GUIDE:
You will receive an electronic ride guide closer to the date, which has all the information you need for Ride Cape Breton.
ON ROUTE:
Ride Cape Breton has knowledgeable and experienced ride leaders providing support and encouragement along the way. We will also have signage to keep you on track and a SAG vehicle following the route to ensure you get to the next campsite safely.
REST STOPS:
There will be rest stops at key points along the way where you can top up your water and refuel before hitting the road again.
BIKE MECHANICS:
Bike mechanics will be available in case you have an unfortunate mechanical breakdown or need a tune up at campsites.
WHAT TO BRING:
We allow each rider to bring 23kg of luggage on the ride so working out what to bring can be the hardest part of preparing for the ride.
Here are some of the essentials we recommend:
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tent
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sunscreen
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towel
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toiletries
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sleeping pad & sleeping bag
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change of clothes
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torch or headlamp
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flip flops
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personal medication
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bidon
CAPE BRETON CYCLING TOUR PRICES
early bird price
until Sunday April 30
$1,475
*Velo Cape Breton is the community partner for the ride. All riders must be members of Velo Cape Breton to participate. Non Velo Cape Breton members must pay a membership fee of additional $10. And don't worry, you don't need to live in Cape Breton to be a member.
standard price
from Monday May 1
$1,595
*Velo Cape Breton is the community partner for the ride. All riders must be members of Velo Cape Breton to participate. Non Velo Cape Breton members must pay a membership fee of additional $10. And don't worry, you don't need to live in Cape Breton to be a member.
RIDE CAPE BRETON CYCLING JERSEY
limited time only**
$79
DON'T FORGET TO PRE-ORDER YOUR LIMITED RIDE CAPE BRETON CYCLING JERSEY WHEN YOU REGISTER!
Features:
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COOL-FRESH LIGHT AND BREATHABLE FABRIC
-
FULL LENGTH INVISIBLE ZIPPER
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SILICONE GRIP AT HEM
-
THREE REAR POCKETS
All jerseys are final sale (No exchange or return) so please pay very close attention to sizing.
**Pre-order by April 30
RIDE CAPE BRETON CYCLING ROUTE
Click on images to see daily route and profile maps
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 4 (REST DAY)
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
DAY 5
DAY 9
/
*All routes are subject to change to ensure a safe and successful cycling event.
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Why choose Nordic Kata Tipi tents?Handcrafted from high quality canvas and ethically sourced late-maturing spruce from Northern Scandinavia, our Nordic Kata Tipis (or Teepees) are a very unique alternative and cater towards people looking for something completely different. Their unique design allows you to incorporate them into absolutely any space as they seamlessly blend into the surrounds of your venue. It means your aesthetic is never compromised. They are simply awe-inspiring and enchanting.
-
What are the site requirements?1. Good access for our 4x4 truck with long trailer. Additional fees will be applied if trailer and truck access is restricted. 2. Flat, level ground 3. Well drained ground and free from flooding 4. Free from underground services (septic tanks, cable lines, phone lines, water pipes or anything else that could be damaged by insertion of 60cm stakes into the ground) If you have any questions about the suitability of your event site, we would be happy to schedule a site visit.
-
How much space is needed to set up the tents?Each of our Nordic Kata Tipis has a diameter of 34 ft with their sides down and stands approximately 24 ft high. The exact space required depends on the number of tents you desire and the configuration you select. Please refer to our “nordic kata tipi rental” page for more information and give us a call for your set-up requirements.
-
I would love to book the tents for an event. What is the next step?Please contact us and we will provide you with a customized quote based on your event. Once agreed, we will send you a booking form and an invoice with deposit details. Once that is paid, you dates are officially secured.
-
Is set-up and pack-down included in the price?Yes, we include the set-up and pack-down in the price. Additional fees may be applied if access to the site is restricted.
-
Do you require a deposit to book?Yes, we require a 25% non-refundable deposit for tent rental.
-
What happens if the weather is terrible?Our Nordic Kata Tipis are custom made using traditional methods and modern technology, making them very strong and waterproof. Rain is never an issue, unless your site is at risk of flooding. If strong winds are forecast, we may need to adjust when we set up the tents and how the sides are configured. If this is the case, we will work with you to determine the best schedule and configuration. As with any outdoor event, we are at the mercy of mother nature; it never hurts to have a plan B.
ACCOMMODATION
camping
Ride Cape Breton includes overnight camping for all 8 nights of the ride as well as pre-ride camping at Fortress of Louisbourg on Friday June 30. Our campsites range from National Park campgrounds to school sport fields and athletic arenas. All campsites have hot showers and facilities waiting for you.
When you arrive at each campsite you can collect your luggage from the luggage truck, set up your tent, and enjoy a shower before exploring a new region of Cape Breton. If you do need anything else, our on-site crew will be happy to help.
Don't worry about your luggage, we will transport it all from the start at Fortress of Louisbourg to the finish in Sydney and all campsites in between.
campsite amenities
INFORMATION HUB
DINING
SHOWERS
TOILETS
accommodation options
While we love camping, we do understand that sometimes it's nice to have a roof over your head and a warm bed. Whether you're looking for a quaint cottage or a villa overlooking the ocean, Cape Breton has it all. So if you prefer not to camp or just want the occasional night with a little extra luxury, in most locations, there's plenty of indoor options nearby.
To help you choose the accommodation that's right for you, we've made a list of indoor lodging close to our campsites. Please note that our list is not comprehensive, feel free to look at other websites to see what else might be available.
To secure a room, please book directly with the accommodation providers.
DAY 1
Eskasoni
-
n/a
*Indoor accommodation options are in addition to the Ride Cape Breton price.
Enjoy Cape Breton Via Bike
This will be an incredible experience for riders of all levels. Covering almost 600km over 9 days can be challenging for some so we recommend you get some training in your legs before the ride. Try to get out for regular rides in the lead up to the event. Why not speak to your local ride shop to find out about weekly local rides.
Remember, training rides help prepare your bodies and minds for the ride.
-
Why choose Nordic Kata Tipi tents?Handcrafted from high quality canvas and ethically sourced late-maturing spruce from Northern Scandinavia, our Nordic Kata Tipis (or Teepees) are a very unique alternative and cater towards people looking for something completely different. Their unique design allows you to incorporate them into absolutely any space as they seamlessly blend into the surrounds of your venue. It means your aesthetic is never compromised. They are simply awe-inspiring and enchanting.
-
What are the site requirements?1. Good access for our 4x4 truck with long trailer. Additional fees will be applied if trailer and truck access is restricted. 2. Flat, level ground 3. Well drained ground and free from flooding 4. Free from underground services (septic tanks, cable lines, phone lines, water pipes or anything else that could be damaged by insertion of 60cm stakes into the ground) If you have any questions about the suitability of your event site, we would be happy to schedule a site visit.
-
How much space is needed to set up the tents?Each of our Nordic Kata Tipis has a diameter of 34 ft with their sides down and stands approximately 24 ft high. The exact space required depends on the number of tents you desire and the configuration you select. Please refer to our “nordic kata tipi rental” page for more information and give us a call for your set-up requirements.
-
I would love to book the tents for an event. What is the next step?Please contact us and we will provide you with a customized quote based on your event. Once agreed, we will send you a booking form and an invoice with deposit details. Once that is paid, you dates are officially secured.
-
Is set-up and pack-down included in the price?Yes, we include the set-up and pack-down in the price. Additional fees may be applied if access to the site is restricted.
-
Do you require a deposit to book?Yes, we require a 25% non-refundable deposit for tent rental.
-
What happens if the weather is terrible?Our Nordic Kata Tipis are custom made using traditional methods and modern technology, making them very strong and waterproof. Rain is never an issue, unless your site is at risk of flooding. If strong winds are forecast, we may need to adjust when we set up the tents and how the sides are configured. If this is the case, we will work with you to determine the best schedule and configuration. As with any outdoor event, we are at the mercy of mother nature; it never hurts to have a plan B.
PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS
More questions?
If you're not finding exactly what you need or you're interested in becoming a volunteer, please email sean@kohkosevents.ca.
Ready to ride?
