ALVAR Cycle TOUR Adventure

Proceeds go to the Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates (not-for-profit organization) to support cycling amenities, programs and development in local communities.

Enjoy majestic views on Manitoulin including glimpses of over 100 sparkling inland lakes while riding along serene and pastoral country roads.

2025 Dates

JUNE                                         September

June 15 - 20                                     Aug. 31 - 5 Sept.                   

June 22 - 27                                     Sept. 7 - 12                          

Alvar Cycle Adventure on Manitoulin Island

(314km, 56 –71km per day) 

Discover the world’s largest fresh water Island. Take in the majestic views over Georgian Bay, the famous North Channel, the vast expanse of Lake Huron with glimpses of some of the 108 sparkling inland lakes, while riding along the silent, serene pastoral country roads. On Manitoulin, we move at a leisurely pace, locals call it "Island Time”.  Come and see for yourself why Manitoulin is one of the best loved cycle destinations in Ontario and nationwide. Your ever present tour guide tells you the stories, letting you emerge deeply into the fascinating marine, geological and agricultural history. We will show you the natural Alvar formations, First Nations art and culture, art galleries, many museums, one-of-a-kind Mom and Pop shops, and locally produced food and drink. 

Your guide is close-by in a car every day, all day. He can carry your personal items so you can ride pannier free. The tour includes a visit to the famous Bridal Veil Falls, and a visit to an Alpaca farm located on an original old settlers homestead.

2025 FERRY DETAILS 

Approaching Manitoulin from the South, please book the ferry from Tobermory to South Baymouth on Sunday, and the return for the Friday late departure, or perhaps stay an extra night on Manitoulin.

Drive from South Baymouth north on Hwy 6, turn right in Little Current still on Hwy 6, and take a left turn right after three Cows and Cones.

Check yourself into the Hotel and Conference Center. 

Approaching from the North, take the Trans Canada highway to Espanola and turn south onto Hwy 6. Enjoy the windy drive through the La Couche Mountains, cross the Swing-bridge onto Manitoulin Island and turn right immediately after the Info Center. Check yourself into the Hotel and Conference Center. 

314 km week (56 - 71 km per day)

Day 1, 62 km: Monday morning welcome at the Hotel's breakfast table.  After touring Little Current, we ride to AOK to visit the POW WOW ground situated at the  North Channel.  Next stop, change your shoes to hiking boots and climb up the famous Cup and Saucer, and enjoy your lunch with a view. On to Lake Manitou, and down to Sheguiandah's rich history. Hwy 6, will bring us back to your accommodations for dinner. 

Day 2, 61 km: Starting the day with a visit to Sheguiandah’s Museum, to learn about the oldest Indigenous settlement, and displays from the earliest settlers. From here the ride will be along quiet municipal roads with a support stop at a stream rehab location. Lunch at Manitowaning's beautiful Bay, a visit to the oldest Church in Northern Ontario, High falls, and Ten Mile point before you ride back down into Sheguiandah, and drive to the dinner location, before checking in to your chosen accomodations near Mindemoya for the next 3 nights. 

Day 3, 64 km: This day is packed with experiences, a visit to the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, experience an Alpaca farm-tour, see famous Bridal Veil Falls with the sculptures found in town and the splendid view of the North Channel. Rolling along will bring you back to your accommodation near Mindemoya.    

Day 4, 71 km: Starting the day in Mindemoya with a visit to the Anglican Church built 1933, we will stop at Sandfield stream rehabilitation site, later enjoy the Fisheries self guided interpretative center, roll down to South Baymouth Ferry docks to see the harbour, and visit the marine museum. see some murals at a lovely garden center at lunch and roll back to the accommodation's, perhaps for a swim.   

Day 5, 56 km: After a stop at the impressive war memorials, we will hear details about Manitoulin's Alvar formations, visit both the Perivale and Mutchmor Gallery, have lunch overlooking the largest sand beach and boardwalk in Providence Bay, returning back to Mindemoya to your car at Mindemoya Community Center parking lot. 

or call 705 968 1755 for more information