In recent years, it seems to me that we’ve begun to look around Ontario and recognize that this is a mighty fine place to be a cyclist. Part of that charge is being led by forward thinking tourism boards who are laying out routes that enable people like myself to not only take in the scenery and the natural surroundings, but also visit the restaurants, small businesses and sites that are, in essence, the lifeblood of every region.

Windsor Essex Pelee Island has done a particularly good job of just that in the establishment of their Cycle Tourism Map. They’ve essentially created six routes that showcase six unique ways to engage with and appreciate the region. And with the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge-the first border crossing between Windsor and Detroit that’s free for pedestrians and cyclists-it makes a cycling adventure on the Canadian side of this border that much easier.

Don’t be scared to use the map as inspiration, but lean into the experiences that suit you best. For example, perhaps you might want to focus on spending a few days in Windsor, spend some extra time exploring Kingsville, take in the sights and sounds of Amherstburg, or even use cycling as a delightful excuse to spend a few days on Pelee Island.

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