Idyllic backdrops for a bicycle-themed Thanksgiving getaway

Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude and spend quality moments with loved ones. While the traditional turkey feast at home is cherished by many, some adventurous souls seek to celebrate this holiday in a unique way. One such way is by embarking on a Thanksgiving bicycle getaway. Imagine pedaling through picturesque landscapes, savoring the crisp autumn air, and indulging in a Thanksgiving meal prepared with love at your destination. Here, we’ll explore some of the best bicycle getaways for Thanksgiving, offering a refreshing alternative to the usual festivities.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod (pictured above, photo Palmer House Inn) known for its stunning coastal beauty, is a cyclist’s dream. During Thanksgiving, the summer crowds have thinned, leaving quiet roads and charming seaside villages to explore. Pedal along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 22-mile scenic route that takes you through pine forests, cranberry bogs, and quaint towns. After a day of cycling, enjoy a classic Thanksgiving meal at one of the many local restaurants or dine in at a cozy vacation rental.

Quebec’s Eastern Townships

Quebec’s Eastern Townships, or Cantons-de-l’Est, is a gorgeous region for cycling located just a short drive from Montreal. This area is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and scenic routes that are especially beautiful in the fall. Take a ride along the Townships Trail, which offers a mix of challenging and leisurely routes. Many of the charming towns in the area have local inns and restaurants that serve up delicious Thanksgiving meals, often featuring French-Canadian culinary delights. The area also boasts a number of bicycles trails on Quebec’s famed La Route Verte network, including a 235-km section connecting Montréal and Sherbrooke that offers incredible adventures, scenery and special epicurean stops.

Napa Valley, California

If you’re a wine enthusiast and an avid cyclist, Napa Valley is the perfect destination for your Thanksgiving getaway. The valley’s vineyards and wineries are not only known for their world-class wines but also for their scenic beauty. Explore the valley by bike, stopping at various wineries for tastings along the way. Many wineries offer special Thanksgiving events, combining wine, food, and the joy of cycling in a serene atmosphere. And, let’s not forget about the gorgeous new Vine Trail, a 47-mile bike trail, smooth and flat, cutting through bucolic farmland.

Photo: Napa Valley Tourism

Vermont’s Green Mountains

Vermont’s Green Mountains are a fall foliage haven, making it a splendid choice for a Thanksgiving bicycle getaway. The state offers a variety of cycling routes, ranging from leisurely rides along serene country roads to challenging mountain ascents. Take in the breathtaking scenery of colorful foliage as you pedal through charming New England towns. Many local inns and bed-and-breakfasts offer special Thanksgiving packages, ensuring a warm and cozy holiday experience.

Rail trails in Vermont

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Niagara-on-the-Lake, situated at the mouth of the Niagara River in Ontario, is a delightful destination for a Thanksgiving bicycle getaway. This region is not only famous for its wineries but also for its scenic cycling routes. Explore the Niagara Parkway, a tree-lined road that meanders along the Niagara River and showcases stunning views of the river and the colorful foliage. After your ride, you can savor a Thanksgiving dinner at one of the town’s fine restaurants, some of which offer special holiday menus paired with local wines.

A Thanksgiving getaway featuring amazing bicycle adventures can be a memorable and unique way to celebrate. Whether you prefer coastal views, mountain landscapes, fine wine, or adventure, there’s a perfect destination for you.