Cycling in Petite Nation

Cycl-O Ottawa River Route

A must for road cycling enthusiasts! This 87-km loop, part of the famous Green Lane, starts in Thurso. Following the majestic Ottawa River, the route passes through Papineauville and leads to Montebello, a village with irresistible charm. Want to extend the adventure? Take the ferry at Thurso or Fassett to discover the Ontario shore before returning to Petite Nation. This circuit, which alternates between panoramic landscapes, gourmet stops, and heritage treasures, offers a perfect balance between performance and pleasure. With each pedal stroke, a new surprise awaits you—a bucolic setting, a tasty stop, or an inspiring encounter. A true sports hike to be enjoyed at your own pace.

Cycl-O Road

Practical information:

• Starting point: Thurso Town Hall, where you can admire thebronze statueof Guy Lafleur, a hockey legend from the region. If you're looking for a good lunch to start the day, head to Café Bistro Léo.
• Gourmet break: Stop off at Café d’la rivière, an ice cream parlor, café, and sandwich shop, and you'll be in for a treat!
• Cultural discovery: DiscoverMontebello's artists and artisans, and grab a bite to eat in Montebello, where there's something for everyone!

👉 cycloroute.ca

Mountain Bike

Montebello Vélo de Montagne

Explore a network of trails covering 25 km in summer and 30 km in winter on the historic lands of Louis-Joseph Papineau. Whether you are a beginner or an expert mountain biker, these trails offer exhilarating descents and magnificent views.

Practical information:

• Bicycle rental available on site
• Accommodation: Live your van life in Montebello Vélo de Montagne
• After all that effort, head to Le Bankeur, the Montebello Brewers' brasserie.

👉 montebellovelo.com

Ripon Parc des Montagnes

Ripon's Parc des Montagnes offers several kilometers of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. The park also has a bike park with wooden modules for developing various cycling skills, suitable for ages 8 and up.

Practical information:

• Other activities on site: hiking, wildlife viewing, and panoramic viewpoint.
• Accommodation: Live your van life at Parc des Montagnes
• For a well-deserved break: stop by the Café des orties.

👉 blackmountainpark.ca

Parc récréatif de la Maskinongé

Discover nearly 20 kilometers of trails at Lac-des-Plages at the Parc récréatif de la Maskinongé, where nature is at its best. The trailhead is next to the cemetery, offering a picturesque adventure.

Practical information:

• After your bike ride, why not stop by Ranch d'Amérique for a barbecue dinner? They offer a wide selection of game meats.

👉 lacdesplages.com

Gravel bike

The gravel roads in Petite Nation are a real playground for those who love exploring off the beaten track. Let yourself be surprised by its bucolic roads.

👉 To plan your next outing, visit gravelmap.com

Family cycling

Louis-Joseph-Papineau Trail

This 10-kilometer bike route, running from Saint-André-Avellin to Saint-Sixte, is perfect for intermediate cyclists. Covered with rock dust, it offers varied landscapes and magnificent panoramic views.

Practical information:

• Bicycle rentals are available atAuberge Petite-Nation and Saint-André-Avellin campground.
• For a gourmet break: After your hike, why not take the opportunity to enjoy one of the many restaurants in Saint-André!

👉 In detail

For a historical stroll

Explore this 20-kilometer family bike path on a gravel trail, built on the former Singer railway line in Duhamel.

Practical information:

• Departure from the Centre Touristique du Lac-Simon or Carrefour Duhamellois
• Bicycle rental available at Carrefour Duhamellois
• Want to extend your stay? There are many accommodation options available in Duhamel.

👉 In detail