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Things You Need To Know Before Heading Off On That Bike Trip

Looking for an awe-inspiring bike trip this summer? Visit Saguenay--Lac-Saint-Jean in Quebec, Canada
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The paradise that comes to mind when one thinks “unspoiled nature” is that of the Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada.

A vast area of almost 40,000-square miles, the region is best known for its humbling and breathtaking natural scenery. It’s highlighted by the picturesque Saguenay Fjord and the two bodies of water that provide its name: Lac Saint-Jean and the Saguenay River into which it drains.

Cycling around the region may be one of the best ways to see it. The Véloroute des bleuets, a 159-mile paved path around Lac Saint-Jean, and the nearly 250-mile Véloroute du Fjord du Saguenay are great ways to take in the natural splendour.

No matter what level cyclist you are, there are paths to satisfy your adventure needs. But it’s important to be prepared before you hit the pavement. Here are a few tips and tricks for your next biking trip.

Plan Your Route

Wherever you choose to cycle, make sure you have an idea of where you’re going and how you’ll get there. Route-planning is essential and thanks to technology, easier than ever. Download the Véloroute des bleuets app and let it guide you through the trail. It provides you with a map of the region and charts out all nearby accommodations. There are also tons of other apps cyclists can use to plan trips and track their progress, both for mobile and desktop.

Stay Hydrated And Pack Snacks

Long-form exercise — like cycling — requires carbohydrates to power the body and a breakfast at the beginning of the day won’t sustain you for the full ride.

Water and healthy snacks are also essential for your bike trip. Bananas, for instance, are easy to eat and trail mix can be a one-two punch of healthy fats and potassium. Blueberries are also easy to pack in a bag but in August to mid-September, you can purchase Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean’s iconic wild blueberries at roadside stands. What could be better than that? Lay out a blanket and enjoy these snacks at resting areas along the bike trails. There are about 40 of them alongside the Véloroute des Bleuets, all of them with spectacular views.

First-Aid For You And Your Bike

It’s always smart to be prepared and carry a first-aid kit while on a biking adventure. To that end, your bike may need some first aid too. Investing in the requisite tools and bringing compressed air with you in case you need to refill a tire or two is a good idea. On the Véloroute des bleuets, volunteers wearing red t-shirts carry bike-repair kits with them and can offer help when you need it.

Research The Marine Transport Services

The Marine Shuttle (otherwise known as the Fjord Shuttle) will help you transverse the marine territory between the larger towns and smaller villages. Taking a shuttle allows you to see all that Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean has to offer and brings you to yet another adventure.

Enjoy Your Surroundings

While you’re on the bike trip, make sure you take the time to fully appreciate your surroundings. While trekking through the Véloroute du Fjord du Saguenay, hop off your bike and explore the Baie Éternité (Rivière-Éternité) area on kayak or canoe. You can also set up camp at La Baie Sainte-Marguerite to catch a glimpse of beluga whales.

There are great things to do in the land of the giants. Visit Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean in Quebec, Canada for your next adventure excursion.

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