Sunshine Coast, Discovery Islands Cycling/Camping Tour

This was a change, a cycling and camping trip close to home, what’s not to like? At least for west coast CCCTS members.

No flights involved, private accommodations, no need to rent a bike or even box it up, fantastic scenery and all meals included.

Yes, the cycling was demanding 5 days, 420 km. and 4,500 m elevation, but wonderful fall weather perfect for cycling.

It was a great group of 10, including our leader Peter Donkers and co-leader Jurgen Harding. They had definitely aced the organizing details and the route logistics. Booking ferries for the support van, campsites, camping gear, and even the basic food shopping, besides coordinating the group logistics, they did it all.

It was one of those amazing trips, we all participated like a well oiled machine, as someone said, on and off the bike. Cycling at times together, alone or in smaller groups, we kept track of each other. No pressure to perform for anyone but yourself. Peter’s nightly check-in underscored the sense of accomplishment and support we all felt. Off the road, setting up camp, things got done without drama or tension. Friendships were rekindled and new ones formed.

Did I mention all the delicious and creative meals, almost a competition with Peter’s vegetarian lasagne, perhaps the favorite? But the black bean burritos and seafood chowder were stunning as were even the creative use of leftovers. We ate well, including occasional local coffee stops, brew pubs or ice cream needs. Often ending the day around the fire bowl under a starry night, sharing the day’s highlights.

We had our share of ferries, 5 plus a water taxi. Also wildlife – a bear scampering across the highway, numerous deer along the way, and orcas breaching close to the water taxi. We were often riding close to the ocean or camping close. Even the wind at our backs at times. Camping in the woods or close to the beach, surrounded always by nature.

Nearing the trip’s end, the weather was changing, did we really need a rest day camping in the rain? The group met on our last ferry as it turned out, (we missed 4 more ferries) and decided to condense 2 days into a longer final day, cancelling 2 nights accommodation. We all agreed. The last night for some was spent in their own beds, and some of us slept inside a campground pavilion, out of the heavy rain. Our final dinner of take out pizza was easy!

Would we do it again? It was a wonderful route, close to the BC CCCTS chapters, and an amazing destination for anyone.

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