So, yes, the very idea of a Kawartha Cycling “daycation” is something special that riders can fit into one day …unless they can’t. In that case we call them (2) Daycations. Makes sense, right?
Although this route is all within easy riding distance of Peterborough my partner and I have had a lot of fun doing this ride over a couple of days. This relaxed approach leaves plenty of time to eat, drink and enjoy the sights along the way. A night at Elmhirst’s Resort on Rice Lake makes for a magical couple of days.
So, in the spirit of the Daycation we start our trip at the Silver Bean before making our way up toward River Road. Almost immediately we turn onto the quiet gravel roads as we loop first east and then south toward Keene and Muddy’s Pit BBQ for a superb spot of lunch. On the way it is worthwhile to stop by Hope Mill Conservation Area or even Lang Pioneer Village if time permits. Wrap up day one with the final few kilometers to Elmhirst’s Resort where you can either look after the cooking or make your way to one of the resort’s dining options.
We start the second ride day very casually as the remote nature of this route does not leave many options for lunch. Plan to hit Hastings for a bite before the long, scenic ride back to Peterborough. Along the way you will have great views of Rice Lake, the rolling farmland to the north as well as the secluded forest lands along the way. We choose to finish up with a late, late lunch at The Ashburnham Ale House, where the good people know a thing or two about feeding hungry cyclists.