We’re presenting you with a questionnaire. As a cycle tourist, answer according to your preferences:
A trip of how many days: five;
How many km per day: between 55 and 70;
Paved or unpaved surface: as paved as possible;
Difficulty level: easy;
Would you like access to attractions along the route: yes.
Result: the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, along Lake Ontario, perfectly matches your profile.
Over five days, from Toronto to Kingston, you’ll follow one of North America’s great lakes, passing through historic towns, sandy beaches, renowned vineyards, and landscapes that invite you to slow down the pace.
In short, this is what you might call the perfect cocktail for an unforgettable cycling experience along a vast body of water. This dream route also follows the lake along its full length.
Toronto to Oshawa
If you’ve chosen to take the train, you’ll likely find yourself at the base of the CN Tower. This is where the first segment of the route begins, covering 70 kilometres.
You then ride along the shores of Lake Ontario, passing Cherry Beach and Woodbine Beach. The view of Lake Ontario accompanies you for much of the day.
Along the way, pass through Rosetta McClain Gardens and stop at Guildwood Park in Scarborough, a true peaceful haven with its sculptures and gardens.
In Pickering, take a detour to the marina to admire Millennium Square and Beachfront Park. You can then stop at the Open Studio Art Café before continuing along the lakeshore to Oshawa.
Oshawa to Cobourg
The next day, a 65-kilometre ride to Cobourg takes you through varied landscapes, always accompanied by the magnificent Lake Ontario.
You’ll ride smoothly to Darlington Provincial Park, then through charming towns including Port Hope, proud of its historic heritage.
A break is recommended near the Ganaraska River, an ideal spot for observing salmon and trout. Fields and farmland unfold all the way to Cobourg, a charming town known for its well-kept beach and marina.
Cobourg to Brighton
The third day begins on a cycling path running along the beach. It then connects to a quiet secondary road.
This 55-kilometre section is mostly flat and easy, with constant views of Lake Ontario, which at this point feels as vast as an ocean.
In Brighton, it is highly recommended to visit Presqu’ile Provincial Park, where you can explore the lighthouse centre, observe and listen to many bird species, and enjoy a beach immersed in nature.
Brighton to Picton
On day four of this journey, make sure to leave time to visit vineyards and discover the region’s grape varieties. Many wineries are located along this 55-kilometre route.
The small village of Bloomfield alone is enchanting, with its streets and elegant Loyalist-style brick houses. A few art boutiques will satisfy your shopping cravings. There is also a route leading to the dune beaches of Sandbanks.
Picton to Kingston
The final stretch leads to Kingston, a historic and cultural city where Lake Ontario flows into the St. Lawrence River, an always impressive sight.
This 65-kilometre route immerses you in a rich heritage landscape. Leaving Prince Edward County, you pass through rural scenery dotted with vineyards and orchards. The Loyalist Parkway follows the path of the first British settlers in the region.
You arrive in Kingston, Canada’s first capital. Explore its history by visiting Fort Henry, an impressive military fortification, or the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, which tells the naval history of the region.
In five days, this itinerary offers everything cycle tourists are looking for: pleasant roads, stunning landscapes, welcoming villages, beaches, vineyards, and a memorable arrival in one of Canada’s most historic cities.
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