6 Days / 5 Nights | Rating: Intermediate | Start / End: Bar Harbor, ME
- E-bikes Available
Acadia, our nation’s smallest National Park, is revered as one of the most scenic and beautiful of our national treasures. Situated primarily on Mt. Desert Island, the park is an incredible blend of rocky shoreline, dense forest, crystal clear lakes, waterfalls, and granite-domed hills. Best explored by bicycle and on foot, you will enjoy a guided kayak excursion and a sail on a Maine Windjammer. Your Sojourn tour in Acadia includes a comprehensive experience that enables you to see hidden corners of the region through a variety of activities. Cruise across Frenchman’s Bay to Schoodic Peninsula to the ride along stunning coastline and through several of Maine’s classic fishing villages. Nestled on the shore of Frenchman’s Bay in the town of Bar Harbor is the Bar Harbor Inn. Considered one of Maine’s finest oceanfront properties, the inn is located in a peaceful setting, just steps from shops, restaurants, and galleries in town. Enjoy a stunning oceanfront room with private porch or opt for a room overlooking the grounds. Either way, you will enjoy a full gourmet breakfast each morning in the dining room overlooking the harbor. The trip is based out of the Bar Harbor Inn for the duration of your vacation, meaning you only need to unpack once!
Travel the Sojourn Style
EXPERIENCES, NOT BIKE TOURS
While we love our cycling, it makes up only one facet of what a true Sojourn trip entails. We believe in immersing ourselves in local cultures and discovering the hidden gems of the world.
REGIONAL PLANNING SPECIALISTS
From Vietnam to France to Glacier National Park, we are committed to offering exceptional trips in regions with which we are deeply familiar. We personally design and operate each of our trips.
PREMIER ACCOMMODATIONS
We carefully select from some of World’s renowned hotels. From highly reviewed and acclaimed Hotel de Londres in San Sebastian, Spain or the Reverie Saigon, Vietnam, one of the leading hotels in the World.
UNWAVERING ATTENTION TO SERVICE
Our commitment to provide you with unwavering service starts from the moment you first interact with the Sojourn team. We believe the little details matter and make the Sojourn vacation a life-list worthy experience for our guests.
PROFESSIONAL TRIP LEADERS
Gracious, engaging, and intelligent, our expert team of tour leaders consist of professionals from all walks of life and make exceptional travel companions. Always a step ahead, they are adept at everything from spinning wrenches to whipping up fabulous picnic lunches.
YOUR VACATION, YOUR PACE
We believe that at the end of the day, you are at the helm of your own vacation. We offer an array of day-to-day options to enable you to approach each day at your own pace.
Day 1
Meet your tour leaders at the Bar Harbor Inn for a bike fitting followed by a ride to a beautiful point overlooking the lighthouse that marks the entrance to the head of Frenchman’s Bay. The ride will help familiarize you with your bike and the town of Bar Harbor. Return for a dip in the pool before the welcome reception. This evening, enjoy a traditional Maine lobster bake on the terrace of the inn overlooking the bay. Stroll along the Shore Path as the sun sets beyond the Porcupine Islands then drift off to sleep to the sound of waves lapping at the shoreline outside your room.
GOOD TO KNOW
Every Sojourn trip is different in their own unique ways. We want you to be aware of them so that you can only have the best experiences possible. Please know, whichever trip you choose we are committed to make it the trip of a lifetime!
LODGING:
The Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor, ME
844-814-1668
www.barharborinn.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
11 Miles
Day 2
Dramatic Oceanfront – Much of today’s ride, after lunch, is along the magnificent Park Loop Road. A favorite among road cyclists, this one-way, two-lane road winds through beautiful spruce, fir, and hardwood forest before it brings you into full view of the dramatic coastline. Enjoy a respite on Sand Beach, a solitary stretch of sand nestled between granite points extending from the shoreline. A hike to a scenic overlook above the beach provides stunning views of the beach and the rocky coastline. While cycling this magnificent road, you can witness the sea as it crashes upon Acadia’s pink granite shores. Your leaders will serve a delicious picnic lunch along the route. The ride curves inland along Bubble Pond, giving you your first taste of the carfree carriage roads. This fabulous 45-mile network of roads lacing the eastern side of the island was built by John D. Rockefeller over a course of nearly three decades during the early 20th century. Rockefeller’s foresight, generosity, and efforts to preserve natural beauty are most evident in Acadia National Park. This evening, join your tour mates for dinner at a favorite restaurant in town.
KEEPING YOU POSTED
We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our trips. We’ll do our best to notify you of any changes in this itinerary. Other changes may be communicated to you on the trip by your leaders.
LODGING:
The Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor, ME
844-814-1668
www.barharborinn.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
14 Miles
24 Miles
Day 3
The Carriage Trails to Northeast Harbor and Somes Sound – The quiet splendor of spruce forest that surrounds the carriage roads on which you’ll be cycling provides a serene start to your day. Canopied sections along Eagle Lake give way to gorgeous views extending over Jordan Pond. Wind your way to Northeast Harbor over a series of three granite bridges that span streams in this section of the park. Just before entering town, visit the serene and beautiful Asticou Azalea Gardens or Thuya Gardens – a mix of formal English gardens with simple Japanese influences. Northeast Harbor is home to a large collection of summer “cottages” built by wealthy east coast families who began erecting summer homes in town in 1880. These elegant homes line many of the streets leading from town all the way to Somes Sound and, as you pedal, the cottages will blend into beautiful views of the sound. Fjord-like Somes Sound is one of the closest resemblances to a fjord in North America. For a longer ride, hop back on the carriage trails and ride to Hulls Cove Visitor Center at the northern boundary of Acadia National Park. This evening, join your fellow riders for a sunset sail on a Maine Windjammer. The late day light and light breeze seem to envelope the islands in magical mystique. Afterwards, choose your own dining spot from one of the many great restaurants around Bar Harbor.
LODGING:
The Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor, ME
844-814-1668
www.barharborinn.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
20 Miles
34 Miles
Day 4
Cruise to Schoodic Peninsula – This morning, wheel your bike on board the Bar Harbor Ferry – a former working lobster boat – for a cruise across Frenchman’s Bay to Winter Harbor. Sail past the Porcupine Islands and enjoy wonderful views of the Winter Harbor Lighthouse before docking at the pier to begin your exploration of the Schoodic section of Acadia National Park. Schoodic Peninsula features small fishing villages and secluded bays so characteristic of rural seacoast Maine. The Park occupies a stunning section at the end of the peninsula where pounding surf meets granite shoreline. Along the route, ride a beautiful and lightly traveled one-way road that follows the coast so closely you can sometimes feel the salt spray as you ride. Unspoiled coastline and coniferous forest converge here creating an incredible sensory contrast. Pause to photograph the lovely fishing village of Corea, reportedly the most professionally photographed fishing village in Maine. Stop in at the classic 5 & 10 in Winter Harbor before catching the return ferry to Bar Harbor. Tonight, gather in the Bar Harbor Inn’s private dining room to enjoy an evening together.
LODGING:
The Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor, ME
844-814-1668
www.barharborinn.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
17 Miles
28 Miles
Day 5
Morning Sea Kayak Excursion & Afternoon Hike – After a couple of days exploring the island by bike, gain a different perspective from the water. Following a brief dry land instructional session, paddle off for new discoveries in sturdy and maneuverable sea kayaks and accompanied by a Registered Maine Guide. Calm waters during the early hours of the day provide optimal conditions for seal and porpoise encounters. Loons, osprey, and bald eagles are frequently observed while paddling the sheltered waters around the island.
Return to shore for a picnic lunch overlooking the harbor then depart for the trailhead of one of our favorite hikes. Climb granite block “stairs” through several diverse ecosystems before emerging on the bald granite dome of the summit. Soak in the views that extend far across the bay and islands to Schoodic Peninsula.
If you prefer a less strenuous afternoon, the town of Bar Harbor offers many options such as the Abbe Museum, the College of the Atlantic’s Museum of Natural History, or whale watches that travel offshore in search of giant humpbacks that frequent the area. Kebo Valley Golf Course is also nearby should you have the urge to hit the links. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for your final dinner at one of Bar Harbor’s top restaurants.
MULTIPLE ROUTE OPTIONS
Itching for that EPIC (Extra Pedal if Crazy) ride? No problem, we’ll show you our favorite hills. Looking for more downtime? Your trip leaders will tell you the best days to take a break. All Sojourn tours have multiple route options to accommodate your riding skill or desires!
LODGING:
The Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor, ME
844-814-1668
www.barharborinn.com
HIKING OPTION:
2 Miles
Day 6
The Carriage Roads & Cadillac Mountain – Your final day is a mix of carriage roads and paved roads within the park. A break for lunch at the historic Jordan Pond House provides opportunity to enjoy their famous popovers. Soak in the beautiful views over Jordan Pond to the bald-topped mountains named The Bubbles at the far end. You might choose to challenge yourself with a climb up the gradual 3.5-mile road to the summit of Cadillac Mountain where you will be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding coastline. At 1530’, Cadillac is the highest point along the North American seaboard. Bicycling magazine included the ride up Cadillac as one of its “Top 100 Climbs in the US.” If you’re not up for the ascent, you can catch a ride to the top in the support van and enjoy walking to vantage points on its rocky summit. Showers will be available at the inn at the conclusion of the tour.
CYCLING OPTIONS:
14 Miles
25 Miles
Tour Accommodations
Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor
Unpack your bags only once while enjoying five nights in an oceanfront room just a stone’s throw from beautiful Frenchman’s Bay. This beautiful inn features spacious rooms and modern amenities, and is a just a short walk from shops and restaurants. Watch the sunset from your own private porch overlooking the water or choose a non-oceanfront room for less. Spa, swimming pool, and dining room. (5 Nights)
1 Newport Drive, Bar Harbor, Maine
www.barharborinn.com | 844.814.1668
Travel & Tour Quick Facts
| TOUR START | 2:30pm at the Bar Harbor Inn. |
| TOUR CONCLUSION | 3:00pm at the Bar Harbor Inn. |
| TRAVEL TO/FROM TOUR | Fly into Bar Harbor (BHB) or Bangor (BGR). Bus or rental car from BGR, or free bus from BHB, to Bar Harbor. |
| DAYS/NIGHTS | 6 Days/5 Nights |
| INCLUDED MEALS | All breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners. |
| ACTIVITIES | Cycling, hiking, sea kayaking, sailing excursions are included. Golf and whale watching are nearby. |
| RATING | Intermediate - This tour is perfect for cyclists who do not mind a few gently rolling hills with some longer grades. Routes average 15- 35 miles a day over rolling terrain with longer options available. |
What’s Included?
| EQUIPMENT | Road or hybrid bike, helmet, rear light, seat bag for road bike or rack bag for hybrid, map case, water bottle, and jersey. Bring clipless pedals, seat, or helmet for a more personalized fit. |
| VAN SUPPORT | Rides supported by a Sojourn van as well as a tour leader on a bicycle. |
| TOUR LEADERS | Two experienced tour leaders guide each trip from start to finish. |
| RIDE NOURISHMENT | A selection of snacks and refreshments are supplied throughout all rides. |
| RIDE INFORMATION | Detailed route directions, maps, downloadable GPS routes, and a daily briefing are provided. |
| OFFICE SUPPORT | At your service 9:00am – 6:00pm EST, Monday – Friday. 802-425-4771 |
| DETAILED INFORMATION | A full complement of detailed trip and travel information will be provided upon confirmation of reservation. |
| E-BIKES & TANDEMS | Limited Electric Assist Bikes are available on all tours. Tandems are also available on on our US and Canada tours for an additional fee. Call us at 1-802-425-4771 for details |
Weather
| Acadia, ME | Jul | Aug | Sep |
|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 77° | 77° | 68° |
| Low °F | 57° | 56° | 48° |
| Precip. Inches | 3.3 | 3.1 | 3.7 |
WE’RE HAPPY TO CHAT!
Call: 802.425.4771
Write: info@gosojourn.com
Visit: GoSojourn.com
PRICES & SCHEDULE
All prices and schedules are subject to change at any time.
Click HERE to view the latest departure dates & prices.
