A good cycling trip is not only about beautiful landscapes and pleasant roads. After a day of pedaling, cycle tourists also look for comfortable, welcoming accommodation that is suited to their needs. For cyclists using Voyager à vélo’s luggage transport service, the quality of accommodation is an integral part of the experience.
These travelers appreciate being able to rest comfortably after cycling kilometers through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Quebec and Ontario (from Matane to Niagara).
That is why Voyager à vélo wishes to expand its network of partner accommodations in order to better meet the needs of an ever-growing clientele.
Becoming a partner
Businesses wishing to be associated with the various routes offered can apply. They could be suggested to clients who want to choose their accommodation based on their planned itinerary.
Mario Belley
“We are always looking for good accommodations so we can have a range of businesses capable of welcoming our clients,” says Mario Belley, president and founder of Voyager à vélo.
“We want to have a complete range of quality accommodation across our territory.”
But there is a catch: selected businesses must qualify in order to be included in Voyager à vélo’s list.
For example, bicycles must be able to be stored in a secure place overnight, Mr. Belley explains.
“Just because there are bike racks outside doesn’t mean it’s secure,” he says.
“There must be a proper place to store them. These are often bikes worth several thousand dollars. Clients care about the safety of their bicycles.”
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Another requirement to consider: baggage drop-off and pick-up hours. Accommodations must be able to receive cyclists’ belongings before 4 p.m. and allow departure after 10 a.m.
The company is looking for accommodations throughout the entire territory covered by Voyager à vélo. However, it is making a special call to the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, which is more sparsely covered, particularly in the Basques area, notes Mario Belley.
The diversity of accommodation options is also important, he says.
Hotels, motels, inns, B&Bs, hostels, campsites, etc., the businessman lists.
Ideally, the location should be able to offer on-site dining or have restaurants nearby.
“Cyclists enjoy being able to go for a drink or go to a restaurant in the evening after their day of cycling,” he says. “Ideally, they also appreciate having breakfast on site. People often want to leave early for their ride. It’s easier when they can eat where they stay.”
“It becomes more interesting for them when there are different options at different price points.”
Cycle tourists are also often fond of regional products. Innkeepers who can provide information about local attractions can also help make their stay more memorable.
So: a trendy café, a lively microbrewery, or a restaurant serving regional specialties.
Many small details
Interested? It is easy to contact the Voyager à vélo team to learn more about joining its network of partner accommodations.
Businesses can express interest by visiting the Voyager à vélo website and submitting an inquiry.
The success of a cycling trip often depends on many small details. A warm welcome, a secure place to store a bike, a good meal, and a restful night can turn a simple stop into a memorable experience.
This is exactly the type of experience Voyager à vélo aims to offer its clientele by expanding its network of partner accommodations.
Read also: