MEET ’N GREET/ DAY ONE: Farms and Waterfalls of Courtenay (35 km/+387m)

Whether you are choosing Set Calendar or Custom Dates, we will meet you at the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa to fit your bikes and prepare you for your joyful adventure. Your first ride will guide you along the ocean, beside farms, and through the peaceful forests of Courtenay. Nymph Fall Nature Park, one of the highlights of the ride, boasts 151 acres of second-growth forest with the river and falls raging over a series of exposed bedrock ledges. It’s the perfect place for a picnic or a refreshing dip.  As you make your way to the city centre, you might just want to pop into the chocolate shop for a sample or some house-made gelato or to our local craft brewery for a cold one. At the end of the day, the salty air and outdoor spa of the Kingfisher Oceanside calls, encouraging you to relax and settle into your holiday. Let the waves lull you to sleep at the beautiful Kingfisher Oceanside Resort.

DAY TWO: Explore Denman & Hornby Islands (44 to 66 km/+764m)
Denman and Hornby Island are part of the Gulf Island chain, each offering their own unique coastal character. As you embark from Buckley Bay for a 3km ferry ride to Denman, be prepared to enter a Utopian society where residents have chosen to leave behind the big city life for a slice of rural living. Freedom, informal, self-sufficient, relaxing, and alternative are just some words often used to describe life on these islands. Denman, the first of the two islands, is best known for its vast and fertile farmlands. A second ferry ride from Denman will take you to Hornby Island: a thriving arts community with an emphasis on local organic agriculture/permaculture and small-scale energy-efficient building standards. Hornby’s beach at Tribune Bay is simply magical, a perfect place for a picnic.

DAY THREE: The Land of Plenty (35, 55 or 70 km/Cumberland +351m, Comox +312m)
You’re off to explore the village of Cumberland and the seaside town of Comox today. Once a coal mining hub, Cumberland is quickly growing into a desirable niche community and dynamic tourist destination. Its coal mining past and funky new vibe make it a great place to explore. Choose to ride a short distance today and enjoy the pool and spa of the Old House Hotel after lunch or, if you’re looking for more, we suggest you explore Comox. From breweries and vineyards to forests donned “a place of serenity and beauty,” this little town is waiting to be discovered. Enjoy the Old House Hotel and Spa this evening.

DAY FOUR: Coastal Cycle to Campbell River (54 km, +426m)
A ride north to Campbell River (renowned as the Salmon Capital of the World) will take you through secret farms, past Miracle Beach Provincial Park, and along the ocean. Keep your eyes open for seals, eagles and even whales as you soak in the breathtaking scenery. Stop to put your feet in the ocean and perhaps indulge in the biggest ice cream in town (guilt-free, of course) at the Discovery Fishing Pier on your way to the Comfort Inn and Suites, your ocean-view hotel for this evening.

DAY FIVE: Quintessential Quadra Island (21 to 33 km, +453m)
As you board the ferry to Quadra Island, you are reminded to slow down, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and take time to enjoy those little things that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Beautiful beaches, a First Nations village, a few hills, and adventuresome coastal trails (that require a bit of portaging) make this a ride to remember. Your final sleep is at the Comfort Inn once again.

DAY SIX: Wild and Rugged Campbell River (28 to 44km, +489m)
Cycle up to Elk Falls, our 25km waterfall, nestled in a majestic old growth forest. The natural beauty of the place will certainly fill your senses. If you’d like to ride longer, meander through the forest in the heart of our city and along the Seawalk back to your hotel. Count on finishing your tour between 2:00 and 3:00, in time to make your way to your next destination or, stay and play here a little longer.  Your tour ends in Campbell River.

• 5 nights accommodations in deluxe, ocean and river view rooms
• 6 days of stunning cycling, with a variety of carefully designed route options
• 2 breakfasts (in Campbell River)
• Use of fully-equipped hybrid bike (Giant Escape) plus helmet and accessories – or upgrade to an electric bike
• Luggage transfers
• Bike bags to hold your supplies for the day, first aid kit, tire changing supplies
• Detailed pre-trip information summary
• A complete tour package including maps and cue sheets, digital maps, history and facts, and all of our favourite stops
• Recommendations of best foodie stops in town
• On-call emergency support
• Return shuttle to the Kingfisher or Airport
• Island Joy Rides water bottle
• Island Joy Rides t-shirt

Not Included

• Guides
• Ferry
• Travel to Vancouver Island
• Meals (except ones listed in itinerary)
• Personal expenses