Traveler's Guide
Event Package
Travel Documents
TWO WEEKS before the eventyou are registered for, you will receive the following documents by mail:
- The hiking guide, which includes daily route maps as well as a web link where you can find all the latest information about the event;
- Two numbered wristbands: one marked “MEAL,” the other “LUGGAGE”;
- A green wristband for participants who requested vegetarian meals;
- A white wristband for participants who requested a gluten-free meal;
- If you have rented a tent, you will receive a luggage tag with the number of the tent that will be assigned to you;
ONE WEEK before the event begins, you will receive the following via email:
- The GPX data for your route and last-minute details;
- The link to the newspaper *Le déchaîné* or *Le petit déchainé*, with all the information about the event.
If you have booked the “Sous la couette” package at Le Grand Tour, you will receive the following items on THE FIRST DAY of the event:
- A numbered wristband with the word "REPAS" on it;
- A luggage tag listing the hotels where you will be staying;
- The contact information for the hotels where you will be staying;
- Up-to-date information on a daily basis.
If you’ve booked the Grand Tour Day Trip, you’ll receive directions to the starting point via email one week before the event. On the morning of the event, stop by the INFO booth to pick up your wristband for the day.
Daily Routine
Your wristband: your vacation pass
To receive all the services offered as part of Vélo Québec’s event trips, each participant must wear their wristband at all times and ensure that the one on their luggage is securely fastened. No wristband, no services.
A Typical Day
At the " Petite Aventure " and the "Grand Tour," you're on vacation and can enjoy your day to the fullest.
The support team hits the road at 6:30 a.m., and you can set out at your own pace and at a time that suits you. Please note, however, that if you set out outside the suggested times, we cannot guarantee assistance in the event of a problem.
Meals are planned based on the number of registered participants, and meal times are spread out sufficiently to manage the flow of people. Don’t worry—you’ll always find something to eat, whether you arrive at the lunch stop at 1:30 p.m. or want to have dinner at 8:00 p.m.
Schedule for a Typical Day
- 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.: Breakfast
- 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.: Departure
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Lunch at the rest stop
- 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Arrival at the stage town (until 6:00 p.m. during the Grand Tour)
- 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.: Dinner at the Village
- 1:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.: Bistro, activities, and entertainment at the Village
Luggage
Information and Weight Limits
During our cycling tours, Vélo Québec Voyages handles luggage transport from one stopover city to the next. We accept only one piece of luggage per person, including camping gear. We recommend using a waterproof bag to protect your personal belongings from rain, as luggage is stored outdoors. For the sake of both your back and that of our baggage handlers, please ensure your luggage weighs no more than the following limits:
- 22 kg for the “Under the Stars” package
- 15 kg for the “Sous la couette” package (for the Grand Tour only)
On the Grand Tour, you must have your luggage weighed as part of a mandatory weight check at the time of departure, before loading it onto the trucks. Any excess weight must be returned to your vehicle. You must adhere to this weight limit throughout the trip.
At Petite Aventure, it is just as important to adhere to this limit, even though there will be no routine weighing at the time of departure. However, we reserve the right to refuse any luggage that exceeds acceptable limits. At Petite Aventure, it’s important to note that everyone registered for the family package—including children of all ages—is entitled to one piece of luggage. This allows you to distribute your gear and balance the weight of each bag.
We invite you to check out the Practical Informationsection ↓for tips and advice on planning your trip and packing.
Luggage Transport Schedule
We’ll transport your luggage from one stopover city to the next. You can pick up your belongings upon arrival at the Village every day starting at 1:00 p.m.
Starting at 6 a.m. on mornings when we move to a different Village, after you've taken down your tent and packed up your belongings, you must drop off your bag at one of the numbered trucks.
Valet service (subject to change)
To transport your bag from the parking lots to the start/finish area or from the campgrounds to the baggage trucks, sports teams and local organizations offer a valet service for $2 per bag. The money raised helps them fund their activities.
Meals
Most meals are included in the “Sous les étoiles” packages for our event trips. Please refer to the package you purchased for details on what’s included. While lunch is served at the rest stop, breakfast and dinner are always served at the Village.
Lunch Stop
Unless otherwise indicated, lunch is served only at the lunch stop, which is clearly marked and indicated on the route maps. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until the last cyclists arrive). Please note that cyclists who arrive before the lunch stop opens will not be able to receive their lunch upon arrival at their lodging under any circumstances.
At the rest stop, you’ll find restrooms, first aid services, water, and roadside assistance, among other amenities. Access to the rest stop and the services offered there is reserved exclusively for registered event participants.
Massage Therapy
After a great day of biking, treat yourself to some relaxation by booking a 30- or 55-minute massage. You must book your appointment at the starting point or directly at the massage therapy room in each of the Villages. Fees apply.
Bicycle and Property Safety
Although the Village is under surveillance all night, we strongly recommend that you lock your bicycle at all times. Lock two or three bikes together near your tent or to a fence, if one is available. For obvious reasons of peace and quiet, we prohibit the use of bike alarms in the Village. Remember that you are always responsible for your belongings during the event.
Visitors and Recreational Vehicles
Visitors—whether driving or cycling—are not permitted to follow you on the road or to the rest stop. You may, however, host them for a few hours at the Village, where they may accompany you to the Bistro only. However, we cannot allow them to camp on the grounds or provide them with dinner, as this service is reserved exclusively for registered event participants.
The Village
Petite Aventure , and the Grand Tour are like a village on wheels—one that we set up and take down every day (except when we spend two nights in the same place). The Village serves as your campground, your starting point, and your base camp. At the Village, you have access to a wide range of services: bike repairs, first aid, massage therapy (for a fee), and more.
Among the various activities offered at the Village are a movie theater, yoga classes, local specialties, and snacks. Every day, you can also enjoy a wide range of activities. In addition to the “ Petite Aventure ,” there’s a variety of entertainment and activities for children of all ages. To see the schedule, check out the digital newsletter *Le déchaîné*.
Information and Tourist Information Kiosk
For information on the daily schedule, activities offered at the Village, and the services available to you, please visit the information booth located in each Village.
At the tourist information booth, you can get information about the town and its attractions (beaches, parks, restaurants, museums, historic sites, outdoor activities, etc.). Be sure to stop by to discover all the surprises and little touches our hosts have in store for you, and to sign up for any activities that are offered.
Mechanical Kiosk
During the events, we work in tandem with a team of experienced mechanics. Every day at the Village, from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. (7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the “ Petite Aventure ”) and from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., they can fix minor problems (free of charge, except for parts) or major ones (charges apply for labor and parts). It’s also worth noting that you can inflate your tires at the auto service booth.
The Unleashed
Le Déchaîné is the official digital newsletter for the Grand Tour, while you’ll find Le Petit Déchaîné during the “ Petite Aventure.” Published one week before your event and updated right up until the start, it includes the latest news about the route (changes or must-see spots), activities, and the evening menu at the Village.
Bistro and Wine Bar
Starting at 1:00 p.m., the Bistro is the place where travelers gather. It’s where they discuss the day’s adventures and unwind with a drink. The scene also comes alive in the evening with live music or DJs. In the dining room, you can enjoy the carefully curated selection of wines offered at the wine bar every day.
Camping
There are clearly marked sections for early risers (before 7 a.m.) and late risers (after 7 a.m.). At the “ Petite Aventure,” there is also a “family” section. No matter which section you camp in, quiet hours are in effect from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Rental tents are set up and grouped together in one area of the campground.
We also set aside a small section of the campground for our employees, cycling instructors, and volunteers. Most of them go to bed late and get up at the crack of dawn. Finally, please note that recreational vehicles are not allowed on the Village grounds.
Restrooms and Showers
You have access to the showers and restrooms at the venues where the Village is set up, as well as to two “Festidouches”—shower trailers—that are available daily on the Village grounds. Portable restrooms are also provided in the camping areas.
On the Road
You are driving on the road network, and the roads are not closed to traffic. So, please drive carefully!
Traffic Safety Code
As a road user, you are subject to the Road Safety Code. You must:
- Obey traffic signs and signals (traffic lights, stop signs, etc.)
- Drive on the right side of the road, in the direction of traffic
- Driving in a single file
- Equip your bike with the required reflectors
- Have a working lighting system (white light in the front, red light in the back) if you plan to drive at night
We’ve noticed that some cyclists take up too much space on the road, riding three or four abreast. This complicates the work of our support vehicles and compromises everyone’s safety. Not to mention that it doesn’t put us in a good light with law enforcement. Please keep this in mind. Also, be mindful of cyclists who are riding slower than you.
If you're bringing your children to the " Petite Aventure," teach them the basics of bicycle safety and make sure they ride close to you.
Signage and optional routes
Traffic signs
The route is marked so that you can easily find your way. Our signs will let you know where the lunch stop is. Some signs point out restrooms and water stations. It’s also worth noting that all support vehicles along the route always carry water. Feel free to flag them down if you need anything.
Last-minute detours may occur, particularly due to unplanned roadwork or poor road conditions. If this happens, we will notify you with signs marked “DETOUR.”
Optional tracks
Every day, you have the option to go the extra mile by taking optional routes. These routes let you see magnificent sights or panoramic views, but they involve a longer ride or a higher level of effort. They’re therefore intended for cyclists who really want to push themselves. Please note that they’re marked only at turns and that patrols are less frequent along these routes. However, using the maps in your hiking guidebook or your route on theRide with GPS app, you should have no trouble finding your way.
Good Citizenship and Courtesy on the Road
Every year, many municipalities and their residents welcome us along our routes with warmth and enthusiasm. To leave a good impression on them, we ask that you always act responsibly and courteously on the road. A beautiful apple tree, a shaded flower bed, or a garden hose may be tempting, but they certainly belong to someone. Please respect private property.
Need help?
Need help? Give it a thumbs-down!
If you need help, give us a clear thumbs-down as we pass by. Vehicles marked as belonging to the organization and certified cycling guides—who can be recognized by the red flag attached to their bikes—are stationed along the entire route. Our vehicles are connected via communication systems, and we can respond quickly to provide you with assistance.
If you’re unable to finish the day’s ride, you can ride along in a support vehicle with your bike. Please don’t hesitate to use this option in the event of a serious problem.
Children who give up along the way
If a child under the age of 12 drops out of the race, he or she must be accompanied by a parent in the support vehicle.
Certified Cycling Instructors from Vélo Québec
Vélo Québec’s certified cycling guides are travelers selected for their recognized skills in first aid, bicycle mechanics, and road cycling instruction. Through their commitment, these cycling guides combine a spirit of mutual support with the joy of travel.
IMPORTANT: Insurance Coverage
It is your responsibility to arrange adequate insurance coverage for your luggage, your bicycle, and trip cancellation insurance. Vélo Québec Voyages assumes no liability for loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and personal belongings (including your bicycle) throughout the duration of your trip, including the transportation of your bicycle by our services, if applicable. Please note that many home insurance companies cover property that is damaged or stolen away from home. Check with your insurer.
Practical Information
Properly planning your cycling trip will maximize your chances of having an enjoyable experience. Vélo Québec offers some tips to help you make the most of your vacation!
Luggage
Choose your piece of luggage
Keep in mind that the ideal piece of luggage is lightweight and easy to handle—both for you and for our baggage handlers.
Tip: When choosing your luggage, weigh it to ensure you select the lightest options.
If you're camping in a tent, opt for a duffel bag—without wheels or a rigid frame—with a capacity of about 100 liters and sturdy handles that can support a maximum weight of 22 kg when full.
If you're staying at a hotel, opt for a piece of luggage with wheels that weighs no more than 15 kg when packed
Identify and personalize your luggage
Please write your name, address, and phone number on it. And don't forget: we will only transport it if it has the "luggage" tag attached.
Keep Your Luggage Dry
Because of the large amount of luggage and the space needed to store it when we arrive at a stopover town, our luggage is always left outside, rain or shine. That’s why it’s important to place your clothes, personal belongings, sleeping bag, and tent in several waterproof plastic bags before packing them into your luggage.
Cycling Tourism Toolkit
Vélo Québec shares more tips and tricks in its Touring Cycling Toolkit.
There you will find:
Additional Services
Tent Rental Services
Tent number and luggage identification
Two weeks before the event, you will receive a luggage tag bearing the number of the tent assigned to you for the duration of your stay. Only luggage bearing this tag will be transported in the trucks designated for the tent rental service.
Tent Availability and Luggage Delivery
On each travel day, the tents are available at 1:00 p.m. Your luggage will be placed inside your tent. On each travel day to a new stopover city, you must vacate your tent by 9:30 a.m. at the latest. It will be available again starting at 1:00 p.m., and your luggage will be inside. The rental tents are set up and grouped together in one area of the campground. Please note that the tents are not designed to store your bike. Please lock it up outside.
Day-to-Day Luggage Transport
At the departure site, drop off your luggage at one of the two designated cube trucks identified by the tent rental service. On each day of travel, the tent rental service team is on site starting at 6:30 a.m. On sunny days, you must leave your luggage outside your tent, in front of the door. Luggage is picked up on site by the tent rental service team. On rainy days, you must leave your luggage inside the tent (with the door and screen closed) and notify the tent rental service team on site when your luggage is ready to be picked up (please mention your tent number).
"Under the Duvet" Package at Le Grand Tour
(This package is not available at Petite Aventure)
At check-in on the first day of the event, you will receive a list of hotels and their contact information, as well as a personalized tag with your name on it, indicating your hotel assignment for the week. This same tag will be attached to your luggage tag.
You will also receive all the details regarding shuttle service to the hotels, breakfasts, and bike storage at the Village, if applicable. All hotels booked by the Grand Tour will be marked on the route maps, which are included in the hiking guidebook you will receive two weeks before the event.
Accommodations
The “Sous la couette” Grand Tour package includes lodging—usually in a motel, hotel, inn, or guesthouse—which varies from one stopover town to the next, depending on the regions you visit. You’ll generally be staying a few kilometers from the Village. You can easily locate your lodging on the route maps in the hiking guidebook and follow the signs leading you there.
What about your bike? Your bike should be kept in your room overnight or in a secure area designated for that purpose. It is strongly recommended that you lock it at all times.
Baggage Handling
We transport your luggage from one hotel to another. Your bag will be waiting for you in the lobby of your hotel. On mornings when we move to a new stopover city, please leave your bag at the location that will be indicated to you on site. Only luggage bearing the appropriate label is transported from one location or hotel to another.
Arrival at the hotel and departure
Rooms are generally available starting at 3:00 p.m., sometimes 4:00 p.m. Please check in at the hotel before 10:00 p.m., as some hotels do not offer reception or key pickup services after that time. When you check out of the hotel, you must return your key to the front desk and, if applicable, settle the bill for any items or services purchased at the hotel (e.g., phone calls, minibar, etc.).
Breakfast
When a hotel does not offer dining services, breakfast is served at a nearby restaurant and, in some cases, at the Village du Grand Tour. You will find the appropriate coupons in the envelope provided at check-in. "
" breakfasts
served at the hotel restaurant are usually served between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
Information Bulletin Board
An information board posted at your hotel's front desk provides the following information:
- The location where you can pick up your luggage;
- The place to leave your luggage when you leave;
- Where to store your bike;
- The location and time of breakfast;
- The schedule and details for the shuttles to the Grand Tour Village;
- Activities at the Grand Tour Village;
- Messages from the organization, if any.
Shuttle between the village and the hotel
Shuttles run daily between your hotel and the Village. In some cases, due to the distance between certain hotels and the Grand Tour Village, a bicycle storage area may also be set up at the Village. You will receive further details when you check in. The complete schedule will also be posted on the information board at your hotel. Each municipality also has a taxi service; contact information is available at the information kiosk and at the hotel.