Developing Bicycle Tourism with Fabulous Experiences

2019 Cycle Tourism Conference Canada

Developing and Promoting Bicycle Tourism with fabulous bicycle tour experiences

Nathalie Lauzon Directrice logistique et produits VĂŠlo QuĂŠbec Voyages

Presentation 1. Overview of Velo Québec 2. Le Grand Tour Desjardins 3. Vélo Québec Voyages

The organisation of Vélo Québec

Vélo Québec:

For more than 50 years, Vélo Québec, a non-profit organization, has played an important role on the Quebec cycling scene. It constantly encourages the use of bicycles - whether for recreation, tourism or as a clean, active mode of transportation - in order to improve the environment, health and wellbeing of citizens.

70 abonnés

Events and key moments 1985: 1st Tour de l’île de Montréal 1992: 1st Tour de l’île des Enfants 1994: 1st Grand Tour 1996: 1st Petite Aventure 1999: 1st Tour la Nuit 2006: 1st Grand Tour abroad (loop in Vermont, NY) 2007: Inauguration of la Route verte 2011: 1st Grand Tour in Ontario 2014: 30th Tour de l’île de Montréal

70 abonnés

Tour de l’île de Montréal « Give back to the people the pleasure of cycling » « Années folles » (1990): - 45000 cyclists registered in less than 3 weeks - Closed streets - 4200 volunteers

Tour de l’île des Enfants From 1992 to 2005: Le Tour de l’Île des Enfants 20 km for young people from 6 to 12 years old: - Closed streets - No parents - 1700 volunteers

Tour la Nuit 1999: Un Tour la Nuit 20 km: - Friday night - Closed streets At the 1st year: 3000 cyclists, in 2010: 15000 cyclists

Défi métropolitain 2001: Défi métropolitain (Metropolitain Challenge) Inspired by a day at the Grand Tour Distances between 50 km to 150 km (outside Montréal) Cycling tour (untimed) 3500 cyclists in 2010 In 2002, we have added up 2 challenges (June and September)

VĂŠlo QuĂŠbec Voyages > Agency created in 1995; Quebec permit holder > 70 local and international destinations > 6000 passengers every year > Cycling tours and trips offered all year long > Duration: 3 days , 1 to 3 weeks, 8 weeks > Degrees of effort for all levels

Vélo Québec Voyages formula

 Vélo Québec Voyages Formula  En Liberté Formula  Event formula  Customized Formula

The Grand Tour Desjardins > > > >

Original concept launched in 1994 A truly destination event: 6 to 7 days of cycling in August A caravan of 1700 enthusiastic cyclists ride between 80 to 130 km/day All-inclusive packages including meals, roadside support, full range of services and activities in the mobile village … : 1500 «Under the Stars» in campsites 200 cyclists “Under the covers” in local hotels

Combine the pleasures of‌ cycling > > > > > >

A different destination every year Routes chosen for their beauty and their tourist attractions Clear and precise markers Outings that allow cyclists to set at their own pace Lunchtime rest areas where to relax and refuel On-road support and efficient mechanical assistance

Combine the pleasures of‌ after-cycling! > Sites chosen for their facilities, to maximize your comfort no matter what the weather. > A complete range of services and activities: massage therapy, a variety of workshops, first aid, bicycle repairs, Internet access, movies, local specialties. > A bustling bistro with live entertainment. > All meals carefully prepared by reputable caterers > The friendly and relaxing atmosphere of highly colourful villages

Grand Tour Desjardins in Ontario

2011: 1st time the event is 100% out of Quebec, 1st time in Ontario, in Rideau Lake and Thousand Islands Regions

2014: 2nd time the event is 100% out of Quebec. 1st time in Hamilton, Southwest and Niagara Regions

Vélo Québec Voyages

Merci!

Vélo Québec Voyages 1251 Rachel street East Montréal, QC H2J 2J9 1-800-567-8356 ext 506 Newsletter Brochure Follow us :

Web site : http://www.veloquebecvoyages.com/e/ Email : vqv@velo.qc.ca

nlauzon@velo.qc.ca