Rockcliffe to Petrie Island Bike Tour

Bike and stroll through some often overlooked yet really cool attractions in Ottawa. This is a historic and out-of-this-world tour all at the same time! 

Visit one of the oldest Canadian public markets, the rich and famous homes in the Rockcliffe neighbourhood, and the exciting Space and Aviation Museum.

Immerse in nature in the heart of the city as you cycle along the scenic Ottawa River Pathways East. 

Chill out with a swim, picnic, and relaxing time at Petrie Island.  

You will bike on one of our comfortable, top-quality bikes, or you can opt for an electric bike and set off on your journey to discover beautiful Ottawa.

Starting at the Escape Tours and Rentals Shop (65 Sparks Street), complete your bike and helmet fitting and safety review. Pick up your lock and your Ottawa bike paths map (available in both digital and paper), and start your ride.

Begin your tour strolling through Ottawa’s ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets and the number one tourist attraction. 

Pick up a lunch box and snack at the market to take away for a later picnic break. 

Cycling on the Sussex path, you will stop at Rideau Falls and then Rideau Hall, the Governor-General of Canada’s residence. 

Explore the fabulous Rideau Hall heritage gardens, and find shade under one of the 10,000 trees on its grounds. Capture photo memories of the inukshuk, totem pole, and the arc of roses.

Get back on the waterfront Ottawa River Pathway and head to the Canadian Space and Aviation Museum. 

If you choose to visit the museum, check out their extensive collection of aircraft and artifacts from civil and military service. 

Continue your journey on the Ottawa River Pathways East to arrive at Petrie Island. Here enjoy a swim, sunbathe and have a picnic. 

Cycling back to Ottawa, visit the fancy Rockcliffe neighbourhood and bike through the beautiful Rockcliffe Park and witness a spectacular view of the Ottawa River at the lookout point.

End your tour with a ride back to the Escape Tours & Rentals shop. Feel free to ask our team about where to eat and drink or what to see next.

Create a perfect day exploring Ottawa’s attractions and most overlooked locations, including the beautiful Petrie Island, Rockcliffe park and more.

• The Byward Market
• Rideau Falls
• Rideau Hall
• Rockcliffe Park
• Rockcliffe neighbourhood
• Canadian Aviation and Space Museum
• Ottawa River Pathway East
• Petrie Island

For your bike and helmet fitting and safety review, please arrive 20 minutes prior to your tour start time!

Your tour starts and ends at Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals at 65 Sparks St.

Parking: We highly recommend leaving your car at your hotel. Street parking in our neighbourhood is difficult and the meters/time restrictions can be confusing. But if you must drive, here are a few underground parking lots: National Art Centre Parkade (99 Elgin St.), World Exchange Plaza (Metcalfe and Albert entrance), City Hall (110 Laurier Ave W). 

Flexible Booking – Book with confidence! For public tours, you will be fully refunded if you give us 24 hours’ notice before your tour starts.

No refunds for any cancellations within 24 hours prior to the activity start date and time. 

Bad weather? Don’t worry, If your reservation must be cancelled due to the bad weather, you will be fully refunded.

What is your cancellation policy?
You will be fully refunded if you give us 24 hours’ notice. There will be no refunds for any cancellations within 24 hours prior to the activity start date and time. Please inquire about the private tour cancellation policy.

Are there any hills?
Ottawa is a flat city, so most of the ride will be on flat bike paths. There might be a few inclines that can be easily managed when riding our multi-geared quality bikes.

What if it rains?
Your ride will continue in light rain. We supply you with rain ponchos. 

In case of heavy rain or storm forecast, your trip will be cancelled — the final call will be made two hours before the start time of your tour, and we’ll contact you by phone and email. 

If your tour is cancelled due to the weather, you will be fully refunded or can choose to keep your credit for an alternative date or time.

Is biking in Ottawa safe?  
Ottawa is an extremely bike-friendly city. Almost all of your ride will be on Ottawa’s well-maintained cycle paths. In a few exceptions, we will be riding on backroads in neighbourhoods or crossing streets with traffic lights. As well, we start all our tours with a safety briefing and proper fitting for your bike and safety helmet.

Can I bring my own bicycle?
Yes. Please ensure that your bicycle is in good working condition and you have spare parts (e.g., proper tube size) in case. You will receive a $10 discount for bringing your own bicycle.

Have more questions? Visit our detailed FAQs page or contact us!