Canada, New Brunswick: Acadian Coast Bike Tour
Six days; five nights. Easy cycling on the Acadian Peninsula, featuring amazing beaches and dunes, Acadian Historic cultural sites, heritage trails, a lighthouse “at the end of the world”, and cycling or hiking at Kouchibouguac National Park.
"Freewheeling provides excellent value for our dollar. Your concerted effort to continually review and improve upon this value is greatly appreciated." Helene G.
WHY THIS TRIP?
- Climb Miscou Lighthouse for sweeping views where Chaleur Bay meets the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
- Cycle through historic Acadian villages, including Pigeon Hill and Tracadie, rich in culture and tradition.
- Ride the Piste Cyclable Shippagan, a scenic rail trail winding through forests and coastal landscapes.
- Taste fresh oysters from renowned local aquaculture farms along the Acadian Peninsula.
- Explore Kouchibouguac National Park, with trails through salt marshes, bogs, and Acadian forests.
- Ride along the Richibucto River and through Cap-Lumière’s stunning coastal scenery.
- Walk the Dune de Bouctouche, a spectacular 12km sand dune stretching into Bouctouche Bay.
ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:
Click here to learn about our difficulty rating system.
Easy cycling on mostly paved roads with gentle rolling terrain. Occasional short stretches of unpaved surfaces, and some paved sections may be uneven. A hybrid bike is recommended unless you’re comfortable riding a road bike on mixed surfaces. Daily distances vary, with van transfers available for those opting for shorter routes.
Daily Distance:
- 1: Transfer to Miscou Lighthouse (3hr 30mins); Miscou Lighthouse to Lamèque ~32km (+100m / -100m).
- 2: Lamèque Island Loop ~51km (+175m / -175m).
- 3: Shippagan to Tracadie ~68km (+260m / -260m).
- 4: Cycle to Tracadie Beach ~29km (+160m / -170m); Transfer to Kouchibouguac (1hr 30mins); Kouchibouguac Loop ~33km (+150m / -180m).
- 5: Kouchibouguac to Bouctouche ~58km (+260m / -255m).
- 6: Bouctouche to Shediac ~63km (+300m / -300m); Transfer to Moncton (20mins).
(Click image to enlarge)
Activity Levels
The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.
This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.
Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.
This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.
The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.
There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.
Start: Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), 11:00, day one.
Finish: Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport, 16:00, day six.
Meal inclusions: Listed for guided trips only, please see dates & pricing section for accurate inclusions per support level.
Please contact us to arrange alternate meeting and departure plans, if necessary.
DAY 1:
Transfer to Miscou Lighthouse (3hr 30mins); Miscou Lighthouse to Lamèque ~32km (+100m / -100m).
Arrive in Moncton, then settle in for a scenic drive to Miscou Island, where the Chaleur Bay meets the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. At the island’s northeastern tip, the striking red-and-white Miscou Lighthouse has stood watch since 1856—climb up for a sweeping view. After getting fitted to your bike, set off on quiet roads through this windswept landscape of peat bogs, sandy shores, and seabirds in flight. Experience the beauty of the Acadian Coast Bike route as you ride through this breathtaking coastal region. Miscou is a premier birding destination, so keep an eye out for herons, plovers, and perhaps even a bald eagle as you make your way toward Lamèque on your Acadian Coast Bike adventure.
Meal Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner.
Malia Spa, Lamèque.DAY 2:
Lamèque Island Loop ~51km (+175m / -175m).
Ride out from Lamèque to the Nicolas Denys historic site, where the 17th-century French explorer and entrepreneur sought to establish one of Acadia’s earliest settlements. Denys was a trader, fisherman, and author whose writings offer a rare glimpse into the region’s early history. Continue to Pigeon Hill, a quiet fishing village with sweeping Gulf views, once a haven for Acadians navigating these waters. Wind past peat bogs and salt marshes - landscapes that have shaped Acadian life for centuries - before heading back to your luxurious lodging.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
Same lodging.DAY 3:
Shippagan to Tracadie ~68km (+260m / -260m).
Begin your ride on the Piste Cyclable Shippagan, a former rail line turned scenic cycling route. Heading inland, you’ll pass through Sainte-Rose, Gaspereau, and Pont-Landry, where a classic Acadian general store is a great place for a quick stop. Back on the coast, Tracadie welcomes you with its deep Acadian roots and a history tied to the sea. The region is known for its oyster aquaculture, with local farms producing some of the finest oysters in the Gulf. If time allows, visit the Tracadie Historical Museum to learn about the town’s past.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Deux Rivières Resort, Tracadie-Sheila.DAY 4:
Cycle to Tracadie Beach ~29km (+160m / -170m); Transfer to Kouchibouguac (1hr 30mins); Kouchibouguac Loop ~33km (+150m / -180m).
Ride along the Big Tracadie River and River Portage, where trout, salmon, bass, and smelt thrive, passing through rolling blueberry fields on your way to Tracadie—hometown of well-known Acadian artists Jean-François Breau and Wilfred LeBouthillier. Experience the beauty of the Acadian Coast Bike route as you pedal through these picturesque landscapes. From Tracadie Beach, enjoy a midday transfer with a stop for lunch in Miramichi before continuing to Kouchibouguac National Park. Here, cycle through a network of scenic trails winding past salt marshes, peat bogs, and lush Acadian Forest. A short ride from the park leads to tonight’s cozy inn, where warm hospitality awaits, marking another memorable day on your Acadian Coast Bike journey.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
L'Ancrage Bed & Breakfast, Saint-Louis de Kent.DAY 5:
Kouchibouguac to Bouctouche ~58km (+260m / -255m).
Start with a scenic ride along the Richibucto River, traversing serene side roads that hug the shoreline. Your journey will take you through Cap-Lumière, a charming coastal community, and past the inviting sands of Bouctouche Plage. A highlight of the day is the Irving Eco-Centre, home to the Dune de Bouctouche - a 12-kilometer stretch of sand dune extending into Bouctouche Bay, offering picturesque views and a well-maintained boardwalk for exploration.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner.
Auberge Bouctouche Inn, Bouctouche.DAY 6:
Bouctouche to Shediac ~63km (+300m / -300m); Transfer to Moncton (20mins).
Your final ride follows the coastline, with views of the Bouctouche Bar and cycle through the seaside communities of Côte-d’Or and Cocagne Cape Beach. Continue through Caissie Point and over the Shediac Bridge before reaching Shediac, known for its deep-rooted Acadian heritage and lobster fishing industry. Follow the bike path to the Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf, a lively waterfront with cafés, shops, and boardwalk views. Your support person will meet you here for a short transfer back to Moncton, where your Acadian Coast Bike adventure comes to a close.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
SELECT A DATE BELOW TO RESERVE, OR START A NEW DATE
2026 DATES:
2027 DATES:
Please contact us with your preferred date
Don't see what you want?
(Inclusions & pricing are listed below)
PRICING
Our tour costs are ALL IN, including fees & taxes.
Guided: C 3995 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes 6 days, 5 nights, 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners, luggage handling, guide/driver support, maps, route notes, hybrid bicycle rental, 15% sales tax.
Small groups or private tours, fully supported with drivers/guides and vehicles, all lodging and most meals included. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Self-Guided: C 3645 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes 6 days, 5 nights, 5 breakfasts, inn to inn luggage transfers, essential transfers, emergency on call support, route notes, maps, hybrid bicycle rental, 15% sales tax.
Semi-supported, independent tours including welcome briefing, lodging, luggage transfers and necessary vehicle transfers. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Single Occupancy: Add C 695
Tour cost excludes airfare and travel to and from the starting point, costs for activities listed as optional, bar and beverage bills, meals not shown as included, gratuities for your driver and/or guides.
Bike Rentals:
Hybrid: Included
Flat bars. Trek FX 3 Disk, or similar, with rear rack/trunk bag. Lowstep frames available by request.
Change to Road/Gravel: C 150
Drop bars. Trek Domane AL 5 Disc, or similar, with rear rack/trunk bag.
Change to E-bike: C 300
Flat bars. Trek Verve+ 2, or similar, with rear rack/trunk bag. Lowstep frames available by request.
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
Please see above for accurate pricing and inclusions, unless we have proposed a customized trip for you and those details are provided in your custom proposal.
1. Choose an advertised date to join a small group, or see our Join a Group page to see where groups are already forming.
2. Pick your own dates. We will confirm quickly and are happy to talk with you as you make your choice. If you would like a private guided departure, this usually involves a surcharge depending on the details. Those who prefer to travel self-guided typically need only two participants to initiate a new date at the advertised price, and we can sometimes offer reduced rates for larger groups. Please get in touch for more information.
BEST TIMES
The best time to enjoy our Acadian Coast Bike is mid-June to mid-October.
- Spring daytimes warm up to 10 to 20 °C (50 to 70 °F) by mid June. Note that seasonal businesses may still be closed, or on off-season hours, until late June.
- Summer mid June to mid September, is normally 20 to 25 °C (70 to 80 °F). Freshwater and saltwater swimming is encouraged.
- Autumn, mid September to mid October, daytimes 10 to 20 °C range (50 to 70 °F). Nights can be chilly, but rarely down to freezing. Mid-October is the best time to see spectacularly colorful fall foliage.
GET TO THE START
If you fly:
The most convenient airport is Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM). We offer a transfer from Moncton to the start of the tour, so you don't need to arrange transportation yourself. Please let us know your flight details so we can coordinate the pickup.
Alternatively, you could fly into Halifax (YHZ). From Halifax, you can take a Maritime Bus to Moncton. Please check their website (maritimebus.com) for up-to-date schedules and to book your ticket. We will then provide the transfer from Moncton to the start of the tour.
Another option is Bathurst Airport (ZBF). Bathurst is closer to the Acadian Peninsula, about a 1-hour drive. However, it typically has fewer flight options than Moncton. If you fly into Bathurst, you would need to rent a car to get to the starting point, or coordinate with us.
If you drive:
The Acadian Peninsula is accessible via Route 11, which runs along the coast.
Parking is generally available at or near your starting accommodation. We can provide more detailed parking information closer to your tour date.
AFTER THE FINISH
Cycling on the Acadian Coast Bike finishes mid-afternoon on the last day, typically in the Caraquet or Shippagan area. We will shuttle you back to Moncton, usually in the late afternoon/early evening. It's best to plan your departure from Moncton for the following day. See below for hotel recommendations in Moncton.
BEFORE AND AFTER
Arrive in Moncton and settle into your accommodations before your cycling adventure begins. Moncton, a vibrant city, offers a range of activities and boutique hotel options to suit your preferences.
Hotel Recommendations:
- The Aberdeen Cultural Centre: This unique option offers rooms within a historic building that also houses art galleries and studios. It provides a truly immersive cultural experience.
- Auberge Wild Rose Inn: A charming bed and breakfast offering personalized service and a cozy atmosphere.
- The St. James' Gate Boutique Hotel: A smaller, more intimate hotel that has a very nice downtown location.
Things to Do in Moncton:
- Explore Magnetic Hill: Experience the optical illusion of cars rolling uphill.
- Visit Hopewell Rocks: Witness the incredible Bay of Fundy tides and walk on the ocean floor. (Approximately a 40-minute drive from Moncton)
- Stroll through Riverfront Park: Enjoy scenic views of the Petitcodiac River and the tidal bore.
- Discover the Moncton Market: Sample local delicacies and browse artisan crafts.
- Explore Downtown Moncton: Enjoy the many restaurants and bars.
After Your Acadian Peninsula Adventure:
After finishing your cycling tour, you'll be shuttled back to Moncton. Take this opportunity to relax and reflect on your journey, or explore more of what Moncton has to offer.
Things to Do in Moncton (and Beyond):
- Relax and unwind: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Moncton's many restaurants.
- Revisit your favorite spots: If you had a favorite spot before the trip, revisit it.
- Day trip to Fundy National Park: Explore the beautiful coastal trails and waterfalls. (Approximately a 1-hour drive from Moncton)
- Explore Shediac: Visit the "Lobster Capital of the World" and see the world's largest lobster sculpture. (Approximately a 30-minute drive from Moncton)
- Continue exploring the Acadian region: If you have time, consider extending your stay to further explore the Acadian Peninsula or other parts of New Brunswick.
- Enjoy a final dinner: Celebrate the end of your trip with a celebratory dinner.
MORE READING
Delve deep into the rich tapestry of our Acadian Coast Bike. This region, steeped in vibrant culture, offers a unique blend of coastal landscapes, traditional music, and distinctive cuisine. The Acadian people, descendants of French settlers, have preserved their heritage through generations, creating a captivating cultural experience. Explore the history of the "Grand Dérangement," the deportation of Acadians in the 18th century, and discover how this resilient community rebuilt their lives along the shores of New Brunswick. Learn about the fishing industry that has shaped the region's culture, and read about the unique ecosystems that thrive along the coast. Whether you're a history enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, the Acadian Coast Bike offers an unforgettable journey.
To truly immerse yourself, consider exploring resources on Acadian music, a lively tradition featuring fiddles, spoons, and foot-tapping rhythms. Investigate the local culinary scene, known for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and traditional dishes like "poutine râpée." Discover the stories behind the colorful fishing villages that dot the coastline, each with its own unique charm and history. By engaging with the history and culture before your trip, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the Acadian Coast's unique character and the warmth of its people. Hop on your Acadian Coast Bike and experience this breathtaking region firsthand.