Veloroute des Bluets

[oldbikah]

Has anyone done the veloroute des bluets (the blueberry trail) around Lac Ste Jean in Quebec? I understand there are luggage transport services available, etc. Sounds like an interesting trip for 3-4 days (256 km) of B and B, etc. Am trying to find out how much is paved/ gravel etc. Road or hybrid best?

[DeniseGoldberg]

Interesting that you mention this because I've been toying with the idea of riding there as a part of a tour in eastern Quebec. If I go there I will probably stick to the roads though (as opposed to the bike paths). But if you follow the trail and the mapped out bike paths it looks like there is definitely some gravel. I'm having a problem figuring out how much though based on the web site. When I look at the overall map it looks like the entire circuit is possible on roads.

You've probably already found this site, but just in case... http://www.veloroute-bleuets.qc.ca/i...id=66&lang=eng

I find it very interesting that the Bicycle Information Center mentioned on the site is only open until the middle of August. I wonder if they are trying to tell me something (like I should not tour in that area in September?).

When are you thinking of riding up there? I'd be very interested in hearing how the riding is/was.

--- Denise

[Grog]

Here is another source:
http://www.routeverte.com/ang/index.lasso

and
http://www.routeverte.com/ang/voyage...&code=saguenay
on the Véloroute specifically.

It's almost all paved now.

I didn't do it but many friends have. The bike-path parts are nice too so you may want to stick to it, unless you come with a road bike and want to stay away from the gravel. It's quite pretty.

The Saguenay region tends to be colder than southern Québec in the Summer (think 20-25 more than 25-30 - Celcius of course) so plan accordingly, for cold starts in the morning especially.

A few hills but lots of flats.

Just be careful if you drive up to there. The road is better than it was but still treacherous, especially at night (lots of wildlife running around). There is a way to cycle up but not on the main road that starts from Québec city. It's a nice ride, but a very difficult one (think HILLS for 300 km).

Maybe you should also look into:
http://www.velo.qc.ca/voyages/index_e.lasso
and make sure you check out the Grand Tour. It's a different kind of adventure, but a wonderful one. I'll be there this Summer.

Cheers!

[Grog]

I find it very interesting that the Bicycle Information Center mentioned on the site is only open until the middle of August. I wonder if they are trying to tell me something (like I should not tour in that area in September?).

September can have very cold nights in Saguenay, and there can be snow in the mountains, so I guess it starts being trickier. There is not much tourism in that region in the in-between season...

[oldbikah]

Thanks for the replies. actually I had checked out all those websites and found general, but not much specific info. I also have called Quebec tourism and requested printed material (1-877-BONJOUR for those interested). My plan is to take a cyclocross bike, rather than road or mt, and it should cover most surfaces OK. As a western Mainer, believe me I know about lousy roads!! (and snow- at least this year, it is pretty much gone with perhaps a patch or 2 left in the woods!)

Plan is to go in June or maybe July, depending on who I can get to go with me.

I will post a tale after the trip! Any more input is welcome.

[Grog]

Plan is to go in June or maybe July, depending on who I can get to go with me.

If you're there around the 23rd of July let me know, I'll probably be in the Saguenay Triathlon!

[oldbikah]

Will do, Grog. Good luck!