Martha's Vineyard Cycling

Martha's Vineyard Cycling Itinerary:

• Day 1

  Our trip begins today at the Vineyard Haven ferry terminal on Martha's Vineyard. Arrive by 10:30 a.m. dressed in your cycling clothing. Our guides will meet us at the ferry landing and, after a brief orientation and bike fitting, we'll begin our weekend adventure with an inland ride along a bike path to our inn nestled in the heart of Edgartown's historic waterfront district. After getting settled into our lodging, we cycle south through Katama to the dunes of Edgartown's South Beach. We'll also have the option of boarding the "Chappy Ferry" for a quick crossing to the famous island of Chappaquiddick. We cycle 3.5 miles across Chappaquiddick to Lighthouse Road, walking our bikes the last short distance to the beach. Retracing our tracks, we'll return to Edgartown where we'll be free to explore the village's numerous local restaurants on our own, perhaps sampling the fresh local seafood. Our guides can make suggestions as to some of their favorite eating establishments in town. Lunch included.
  
  Cycling: 16 miles plus 7 miles optional Chappaquiddick ride

• Day 2

  We'll get off to an early start today in order to reach our ultimate goal, Gay Head Cliffs, along the Vineyard's western shore. A bike path will lead us out of Edgartown through the tranquil state forest land that makes up the island's heart. After leaving the forest, we'll continue south through the fields and farms of Chilmark to the tiny fishing village of Menemsha where we stop for a picnic lunch at quaint Menemsha Beach. This afternoon, we set out on a loop ride along the coast of Gay Head and return to Edgartown following rolling, winding roads that pass harbors and hillsides. This day is packed with diverse landscapes and rustic Vineyard homes. Tonight we enjoy a delicious dinner together at a local restaurant before returning to our familiar lodging in Edgartown. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
  
  Cycling: 42-46 miles

• Day 3

  After a day of cycling the more remote and dramatic parts of the Vineyard, our final morning offers the opportunity to absorb some of the island's unique culture. Following breakfast, we'll cycle along the north coast to Oak Bluffs, well-known for its gingerbread cottages and array of cafes and galleries. From Oak Bluffs, we continue our ride along the coast back to Vineyard Haven, arriving by early afternoon. We'll have time to stroll around Vineyard Haven before boarding the 2:30 p.m. ferry back to the mainland, perhaps stopping at the famous Black Dog Tavern or Bakery for a last taste of island cuisine. Breakfast and lunch included.
  
  Cycling: 12 miles  

Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. This can include changes in lodging and cycling routes. This trip is operated rain or shine.

Two nights hotel accommodations; guide/leadership; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; snacks while riding; Novara road bike; intra-island ferry fees if part of the scheduled rides, vehicle support and luggage transportation.

Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point; ferry to/from Vineyard Haven; dinner on Day 1; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks and items of a personal nature.

This trip is rated Moderate [3] and is appropriate for anyone who is physically fit and enjoys cycling. The majority of the rides are over flat to gently rolling terrain with some uphill stretches but our support vehicle will be nearby to pick up any cyclists wanting to take a short break. We do recommend that all participants undertake a conditioning regimen prior to departure to ensure that you feel comfortable cycling up to 45 miles per day.

Daytime temperatures in October average in the mid-60s with evening temperatures dropping into the mid-40s. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, weather on Martha's Vineyard is changeable and although days can be sunny and calm, rain, fog and/or windy conditions are possible.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and detailed pre-trip information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

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