Submitted
Comox Valley farmers are opening their back gates for an in-depth, behind-the-scenes tour where cyclists can explore, taste and experience the best of farm life and product during the fourth annual Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour, Aug. 9 - 10.
“Each year, the Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour continues to grow and, regardless of the route chosen, each has an amazing variety of farm product to see, explore, taste and possibly buy,” says Tyler Johns, chair of the Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour Organizing Committee. “In 2014, I think cyclists will also enjoy the upgraded self-guided user-friendly maps, the addition of Beaufort Winery and CV Beekeepers Association, and more musical entertainment along the way.”
This year, Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tours include three options:
Rural Ramble – Saturday, Aug. 9
The shortest loop (21 kilometres) – the perfect option for families and casual cyclists. The tour includes a dairy, berry farm, winery, and meat producer. Allot two hours leisurely riding between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Back Roads Bliss – Saturday, Aug. 9
This route can be done in loops ranging from 29 to 55 km, and features the largest number of farms. Farms along the Back Roads Bliss tour include dairy, berries, perennial plants, sprouts, garlic, and wine. Allot three hours moderate riding between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Bayviews – Sunday, Aug. 10:
Bayviews – Ranging in length from 15 to 45 km, the Bayviews route lives up to its name, featuring views of the Salish Sea. The Bayviews Farm Cycle Tour is designed to be customized, allowing cyclists to visit as many farms as they wish, along with a number of stops to rest and recharge. Stops can include dairy, cinnamon buns, seasonal produce, ice cream, coffee, baked goods, berries and a ‘food oasis’. Allot three hours between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The cost to participate is $15 per person, per tour (limit one tour per day). Two-day registration is $25 while kids under 15 ride free. The tours will happen rain or shine.
Early bird draw
Those who register by Thursday, July 31 will be entered into the Early Bird Contest and have a chance to win an interactive cooking and pasta-making experience with Sarah Walsh of Prontissima Pasta Studio located in TinTown. Early Bird Registration Contest details, and accommodation options can be booked online or through the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre by calling 1-855-400-2882, or visiting www.cvfarmcycletour.com.