Road Scholar : Home
Bicycling: Day Trips To Paradise

Program Number: 2760RJ
Start and End Dates:
5/26/2013 - 5/31/2013; 6/30/2013 - 7/5/2013; 7/21/2013 - 7/26/2013; 8/18/2013 - 8/23/2013; 9/15/2013 - 9/20/2013; 10/6/2013 - 10/11/2013;
Duration: 5 nights
Location: Eastern Townships, Quebec
Price starting at: $998.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Bicycling Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 15; 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners    
Meal Options: Low Fat; Vegetarian; Low Salt; Gluten Free    

Enjoy the way cycling was meant to be as you explore the exquisite natural beauty of quaint rural communities, rolling green hills, and the rich heritage of French Canada and Vermont along paved, idle roads. Ride over wooded hills and through charming towns, learn about the natural forces and the human settlement by the rugged colonists and French explorers, and breathe in the clean, crisp air. Experience the culture and delights along the way, as you pedal the unhurried, high-quality biking roads on both sides of the U.S.-Canada frontier.




Highlights

• Numerous riding options over quiet, paved rural routes and converted rails-to-trails offer scenic landscapes and easy access from base.
• Explore historic towns, French cafés, local cheeses and wines, covered bridges and the charm of lovely Vermont and Québec villages.
• Expert cyclists will provide instruction on bike mechanics, as well as insight into the history and natural wonders of scenic North Country.



Activity Particulars

Rides average 25 miles over rolling terrain; some do more, some do less. All cycling takes place almost entirely on pavement. Group will choose from 20 different day rides. Rentals available.




Date Specific Information

5-26-2013, 6-30-2013, 7-21-2013, 8-18-2013, 9-15-2013, 10-6-2013

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Coordinated by Routes to Learning Canada.




Eastern Townships

The Appalachian foothills of southern Quebec contain some of the most fertile soil and bucolic scenery of the province, attracting visitors to its lakes, country villages, local gastronomical delights and Quebecois culture.
Accommodations
Comfortable lodging in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, in-ground pool.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Stephen Giesler
Stephen Giesler is an instructor and active participant in Road Scholar’s outdoor adventures, and along with his wife, Joy, is the host at Outdoor lodge in Glen Sutton. Since 1976, Stephen and Joy have been organizing outdoor adventures in the countryside of Southern Quebec and Northern Vermont. As a downhill skier since the age of three, multiple Gold Bar Canadian Ski Marathoner, whitewater kayaker on four continents, distance cyclist and tennis instructing fanatic, Stephen’s love of the outdoors and the sporting pleasures found therein has been shared with tens of thousands over the years.
 
Stephen Giesler
Stephen Giesler is an instructor and active participant in Road Scholar’s outdoor adventures, and along with his wife, Joy, is the host at Outdoor lodge in Glen Sutton. Since 1976, Stephen and Joy have been organizing outdoor adventures in the countryside of Southern Quebec and Northern Vermont. As a downhill skier since the age of three, multiple Gold Bar Canadian Ski Marathoner, whitewater kayaker on four continents, distance cyclist and tennis instructing fanatic, Stephen’s love of the outdoors and the sporting pleasures found therein has been shared with tens of thousands over the years.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
  Glen Sutton, QC 5 nights
 Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Type: Lodge
  Description: Our main building was constructed in 1900 and served for over half a century as the big wooden schoolhouse to the kids of the valley. Totally renovated and refitted with all modern conveniences, the Lodge has all the amenities of a home away from home. The renovated interior boasts an abundance of American chestnut and birdseye maple. Our various outbuildings, all within a short walk or drive from the main Lodge, are comfortable and well appointed. The building has a "great room" with fireplace, extensive libraries which include world-class films, wraparound porch, outdoor deck on 2nd level and nearby swimming pool. WiFi throughout the property.
  Contact info: 1351 Vallee Missisquoi Road
Glen Sutton, QC J0E 2K0 Canada
phone: 450-538-5816
web: www.outdoorlodge.ca
  Room amenities: Our rooms, officially designated as four star quality, regularly elicit pleasure for the ‘home comfort’ levels they deliver. All are nicely furnished with comfortable beds, private bath, quality linens and good reading lamps. NOTE: Aloe vera skincare products strictly a no! no! as they destroy linens.
  Facility amenities: All rooms are either on ground floor or one floor up (nearly all have private bath). Homestyle high-end cooking with all menus chef-designed by our chef and kitchen team. We provide three meals a day, unless otherwise arranged. Our Lodge takes pride in the quality of our kitchen fare and our commitment to healthy and nutritious dining. Many guests refer to our cuisine as Elderhostel gourmet. In this age of fast cuisine, we think you’ll appreciate the effort that our dining team puts into all the ‘from scratch’ delicacies. Special needs diets can be arranged ahead of time. As our kitchen serves fixed menus we suggest you come equipped with some of your own specific food requirements should you have highly personalized needs (gluten intolerance, etc.) Thus you may supplement our house offerings.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: Contact Lodge directly. Contact the Outdoor Lodge to enquire about availability and rates for additional nights. Stayover rates include breakfast.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Contact Lodge directly. Contact the Outdoor Lodge to enquire about availability and rates for additional nights. Stayover rates include breakfast.
  Check out time: 11:45 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Independent arrivals to the lodge in Glen Sutton. Check-in at 3:00 p.m. You will be staying at Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton that night.
  End of Program:
Independent departures after morning class or short morning ride (ends around 11:30 a.m.) A bag lunch is provided. You will be staying at Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. We will be crossing the US/Canada border into Vermont - all participants will require a passport. Passports are required for all travel to and from Canada - by US citizens and by Canadian citizens travelling to/from the US (by air, land and sea). Passport requirements are subject to change. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for up-to-date info. and/or http://www.ppt.gc.ca/index.aspx?lang=eng for current requirements.
  Parking availability:
Free on site.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Glen Sutton, QC
  Nearest city or town:  Sutton and Mansonville, Quebec
  Nearest highway: Autoroute #10 in Quebec and Rt. #105 in Vermont
  Nearest airport:  Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Dorval, Quebec
  From End of Program
  Location: Glen Sutton, QC
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Montreal

 

From Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Veolia Transport/Montreal Bus Terminal
phone: 514-842-2281

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

approx.$20 one way, less if senior
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hours 
   

Bus from downtown Montreal to Sutton (and return). Free shuttle between Sutton and the program site in Glen Sutton (12 miles each way). The bus leaves from the bus terminal in downtown Montreal at 505 de Maisonneuve East. Phone the bus terminal at 514-842-2281 for information, schedules, fares. Most take the 9:30 a.m. bus to Sutton (arrives 11:19). The later bus leaves Montreal at 5:30 p.m. (arrives 7:19 p.m.) The phone number for the bus company Veolia Transport is 877-348-5599.
 

Burlington

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Car Rentals

 

Distance:

 

70 miles
   

If flying from the US, cheaper fares can often be found into Burlington, VT (70 miles from Glen Sutton). A rental car will be necessary to get from VT to the program site but it still may be more cost effective.
 

Montreal

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Taxi to bus terminal approximately $10.00/Coach to Sutton $20
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hours 
   

Regular train service to Montreal is provided by Via Rail (with connections to Amtrack in the US). Trains arrive into the Via Rail Central station at 895 de la Gauchetiere West in downtown Montreal. Taxi from train station to bus terminal; then bus to Sutton. The bus leaves from the bus terminal in downtown Montreal at 505 de Maisonneuve East. Phone the bus terminal at 514-842-2281 for information, schedules, fares. Most participants take the 9:30 a.m. bus to Sutton.

 

Montreal

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
747 Express Aeroport P.E. Trudeau/Centre-Ville & Veolia Transport
phone: 514-786-4636 x5148422281

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Express bus from airport $9.00/Coach to Sutton $20
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2.5 hours (45 mins from airport) 
   

1. Take 747 Express bus from the airport to the bus station in downtown Montreal - 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Purchase tickets at the Arrivals Level at the airport or pay the fare in cash with exact change on board the bus. Only coins are accepted (no bank bills). OR Taxi from airport to downtown bus station - approx $40 - $50. 2. Take coach (Veolia) from downtown Montreal to Sutton; leaves from downtown bus terminal at 505 Maisonneuve East. Phone 514-842-2281 for schedules/rates.

 

Montreal

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Veolia Transport/747 Express Aeroport P.E. Trudeau/Centre-Ville
phone: 514-842-2284 x5147864636
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Coach to Montreal $20/Express bus to airport approximately $9.00
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 1/2 hours (45 minutes from airport) 
   

1. Take coach (Veolia) from Sutton to downtown Montreal; arrives main bus terminal at 505 Maisonneuve East. Phone 514-842-2281 for schedules/rates. On Friday, bus to Montreal leaves from Sutton at 6:30 a.m. and 2:16 p.m. 2. Take 747 Express bus from the bus station in downtown Montreal to the airport - 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Purchase tickets at bus station or pay cash with exact change on bus. Only coins (no bank bills). OR Taxi from downtown to airport approximately $40 - $50
 
Driving Directions
  From Montreal Via Champlain Bridge/From the East Take Autoroute 10 to the Cowansville/Granby/Sutton exit. Proceed to Cowansville, thence to Route 104. Continue on 104 to 139 South and onwards to Sutton. Continue straight through town and follow signs to Glen Sutton.
  GPS Coordinates The Outdoor Lodge is located at 1351 Chemin de la Vallee Missisquoi in the village of Glen Sutton. Please note our mailing address differs from our physical address. If you are GPS equipped our front door is to be found at N45 degrees 02.374 minutes, W72 degrees 32.909 minutes.
  Sutton Once in Sutton - head South on Route #139 and in approx. one-half mile, take a left just in front of the building supply outlet, cross the railroad tracks and immediately turn right onto Chemin Scenic. Follow signs to Glen Sutton. We are the first building on the right as you enter the village - look for stone wall, large wraparound porch with white columns and red door. Welcome to the Outdoor Lodge.
  US - From East, South Leave Vermont Interstate 91 at Newport, last source for and continue on 105 West following directions to North Troy. Pick up 243N to the Canadian border. After customs, proceed to Highwater, cross railway tracks as well as two bridges and take first left onto Chemin de la Vallee Missisquoi. After passing the village of Dunkin, you will soon arrive in Glen Sutton. As you enter the village, proceed straight on until you reach the former Catholic Church (our stoneclad neighbour and now a private residence) on the left-hand side of the road.
  US - From West, South Exit Vermont Interstate 89 at 104 East (St. Albans). Turn right off 104E onto 105 East. Progress through Sheldon Springs, Enosburg Falls and Richford. (Hannafords is your last source of liquor supplies before entering Canada). After Richford***, stay on 105E then turn onto 105A and continue two miles to Canadian border. We are located approximately three miles straight ahead from the Canadian border. Our lodge is the second building on the right hand side as you enter the village (large wraparound porch, white columns, red door). Next door is the former Catholic Church, now a private home. You may park your car in the crushed stone area facing the main road or in the evergreen grove across the street. Side by side parking would be most appreciated. ***N.B. This crossing into Canada (the East Richford/Glen Sutton border station) is open until 4 p.m. only. If arriving after that time stay straight in Richford (do not turn Right at the big red brick church onto 105E), cross the Missisquoi River bridge, turn Right at the ‘T’, and go North to the Canadian border crossing near Abercorn. At Abercorn follow the signs to Glen Sutton.
Elevation Note: Rides vary between 600 feet and 2,000 feet.

Equipment Requirements: Bicycles with helmets are mandatory. Bicycle and helmet rental is available. Once enrolled, contact the coordinator to advise that you require bicycle & helmet rental. Cost is approximately $85.00 - $90 CDN + tax for the week (18-speed hybrids).
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Orientation/Welcome Dinner
(Sunday, May 26)
   
 Arrive To: LODGE CHECK-IN Participants arrive independently in the afternoon to the Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m. until 5 p.m. All levels of cyclists are welcome. REGISTRATION: Meet your hosts and fellow cyclists in the commodious Great Room with its fireplace and extensive library that provides a casual and comfortable spot for refreshments and lively conversation.
 Dinner: WELCOME DINNER: Dinner is at the lodge in the open format kitchen and dining room. Enjoy high-end homestyle cooking with menus designed by Chef Joy and her kitchen team. Dinner will consist of salad or soup, entrée, and dessert. NOTE: Most special needs diets can be arranged if requested in advance by noting on your Health & Safety form.
 Evening: ORIENTATION: After dinner, we'll have an overview of the program ahead and review the up-to-date schedule, responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, any other administrative issues, and answer your questions. We’ll also discuss the logistics of the rides and look at the 20 different day rides we can choose from. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do different routes and mileage depending upon ability. The lineup can vary depending on weather. Programs are planned far in advance. Please be aware that local circumstances may require adjusting program elements for weather or other circumstances.
   
Accommodations: Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Bicycling in Paradise Begins/Discover the Townships by Bike
(Monday, May 27)

Note: Daily rides average 25 miles, some do more, some do less. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do more mileage depending upon ability.
   
 Breakfast: Enjoy a breakfast at the Lodge offering a variety of healthy options: always a hot dish: eggs. oatmeal, Red River cereal, etc. fresh fruit bowls, yogurts, local maple syrup, 6 kinds of bread.
 Morning: BICYCLING. Gather on the porch for the Tour du Jour Map at 9 a.m. We choose from 20 different day rides. Underway at 9:15 a.m. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do different mileage depending upon ability. Sag wagon always on patrol. Rides are 99 per cent of the time on pavement (good shoulders, very low traffic densities) which often sees more bicycles than cars on any given day.
 Lunch: We generally all gather for lunch at approximately noon at a pre-designated spot. Bag lunch
 Afternoon: CYCLING CONTINUES. There is plenty of time throughout the day for museums, country stores, local swimholes, milkshakes, antiquing, etc. We are normally back at the Lodge between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. where there is plenty of time for a swim, a snooze or a snack.
 Dinner: Cocktails at 5 p.m. in our "Great Room" and dinner at 6 p.m. In this age of fast cuisine, we think you’ll appreciate the effort that the dining team puts into their “from scratch” delicacies.
 Evening: PRESENTATION/LECTURE: Evening lecture commences at 7:30 p.m. Topics might include the following: Heart Healthy Living, Canadian History, Quebec Politics Since the Quiet Revolution of the 60s, French popular song, or our resident mezzo soprano reeling off some arias. Each week has one free evening where guests can sample our world-class movie collection, play bridge, play tennis on our lighted court or sample some local theatre.
   
Accommodations: Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Another Day of Bicycling in Paradise/Discover the Townships
(Tuesday, May 28)
   
 Breakfast: Enjoy a breakfast at the Lodge offering a variety of healthy options: always a hot dish: eggs. oatmeal, Red River cereal, etc. fresh fruit bowls, yogurts, local maple syrup, 6 kinds of bread.
 Morning: BICYCLING: Gather on the porch for the Tour du Jour Map at 9 a.m. We can choose from 20 different day rides. Underway at 9:15 a.m. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do different mileage depending upon ability. Sag wagon always on patrol. Rides are 99 per cent of the time on pavement (good shoulders, very low traffic densities) which often sees more bicycles than cars on any given day.
 Lunch: We generally all gather for lunch at approximately noon at a pre-designated spot. Bag lunch
 Afternoon: CYCLING CONTINUES: There is plenty of time throughout the day for museums, country stores, local swimholes, milkshakes, antiquing, etc. We are normally back at the Lodge between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. where there is plenty of time for a swim, a snooze or a snack.
 Dinner: Cocktails at 5 p.m. in our Great Room. Dinner is generally at 6:00 p.m. The kitchen is known in the Road Scholar world for its open format and use of the freshest ingredients. Many have called the results "Road Scholar gourmet.” Whatever the chef chooses for that evening, it promises to be delicious!
 Evening: PRESENTATION/LECTURE: Evening lecture commences at 7:30 p.m. Topics might include the following: Heart Healthy Living, Canadian History, Quebec Politics Since the Quiet Revolution of the 60s, French popular song, or our resident mezzo soprano reeling off some arias. Each week has one free evening where guests can sample our world-class movie collection, play bridge, play tennis on our lighted court or sample some local theatre.
   
Accommodations: Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Bike Rides Continue/Explore the Townships
(Wednesday, May 29)
   
 Breakfast: Enjoy a breakfast at the Lodge offering a variety of healthy options: always a hot dish: eggs. oatmeal, Red River cereal, etc. fresh fruit bowls, yogurts, local maple syrup, 6 kinds of bread.
 Morning: BICYCLING: Gather on the porch for the Tour du Jour Map at 9 a.m. We choose from 20 different day rides. Underway at 9:15 a.m. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do different mileage depending upon ability. Sag wagon always on patrol. Rides are 99 per cent of the time on pavement (good shoulders, very low traffic densities) which often sees more bicycles than cars on any given day.
 Lunch: We generally all gather for lunch at approximately noon at a pre-designated spot. Bag lunch
 Afternoon: CYCLING CONTINUES: There is plenty of time throughout the day for museums, country stores, local swimholes, milkshakes, antiquing, etc. We are normally back at the Lodge between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. where there is plenty of time for a swim, a snooze or a snack.
 Dinner: Cocktails at 5 p.m. in our "Great Room". Dinner at the Lodge provides yet another opportunity to enjoy more creative and heart-healthy cooking.
 Evening: FREE EVENING: Each week has one free evening where guests can sample our world-class movie collection, play bridge, play tennis on our lighted court or sample some local theatre.
   
Accommodations: Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Bike Rides Continue
(Thursday, May 30)
   
 Breakfast: Enjoy a breakfast at the Lodge offering a variety of healthy options: always a hot dish: eggs. oatmeal, Red River cereal, etc. fresh fruit bowls, yogurts, local maple syrup, 6 kinds of bread.
 Morning: BICYCLING: Gather on the porch for the Tour du Jour Map at 9 a.m. We choose from 20 different day rides. Underway at 9:15 a.m. People cycle at their own pace in small groups and may do different mileage depending upon ability. Sag wagon always on patrol. Rides are 99 per cent of the time on pavement (good shoulders, very low traffic densities) which often sees more bicycles than cars on any given day.
 Lunch: We generally all gather for lunch at approximately noon at a pre-designated spot. Bag lunch
 Afternoon: CYCLING CONTINUES: There is plenty of time throughout the day for museums, country stores, local swimholes, milkshakes, antiquing, etc. We are normally back at the Lodge between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. where there is plenty of time for a swim, a snooze or a snack.
 Dinner: FAREWELL DINNER: Cocktails at 5 p.m. in our "Great Room" and our farewell dinner at 6 p.m. In this age of fast cuisine, we think you’ll appreciate the effort that the dining team puts into their “from scratch” delicacies. All recipes are fully shared.
 Evening: PRESENTATION/LECTURE: Evening lecture commences at 7:30 p.m. Topics might include the following: Heart Healthy Living, Canadian History, Quebec Politics Since the Quiet Revolution of the 60s, French popular song, or our resident mezzo soprano reeling off some arias. Each week has one free evening where guests can sample our world-class movie collection, play bridge, play tennis on our lighted court or sample some local theatre.
   
Accommodations: Outdoor Lodge in Glen Sutton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Bicycle Mechanics 101/Departures
(Friday, May 31)
   
 Depart From: Independent departures from the lodge.
 Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the Lodge offering a variety of healthy options: always a hot dish: eggs, oatmeal, Red River cereal, fresh fruit bowls, yogurts, local maple syrup, 6 kinds of bread.
 Morning: PRESENTATION/LECTURE: Bicycle Mechanics 101. Gather on our wraparound porch at 9:00 a.m. for Bicycle Mechanics 101. We cover how to handle roadside emergencies such as flat tires, chains popping off, derailleur adjustments, etc. We field all your questions and also cover the specifics of taking good care of your bike throughout the year - proper maintenance. We cover what to look for when buying a bike, proper individual adjustment, gear ratios and tips for getting the best mileage out of you and your bike. Also, how to use your gears for maximum advantage while cycling. OPTIONAL BIKING: There is an option for a short morning ride, ending around 11:30 a.m.
 Lunch: Lunch is either eaten on the porch or in transit (bag lunch).
   
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Glen Sutton, QC Glen Sutton and Environs
Highlights include Benedictine Monastery with Gregorian chants (35 min. drive), antiquing, Quebec's wine district (30 min.), village of Lac Brome (35 min.), local museums, cycling, hiking, lakes and rivers for water sports. Shelburne Museum (1 hr. 40 min.) home to the largest collection of Americana in the world.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


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