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The “wheel” benefits of Oak Bay
Tuesday, August 20th, 2002 by GetawayBC.com
It’s hard to imagine a better place to ride a bike.
Oak Bay boasts wide Garry Oak-lined streets, a stunning waterfront route, gorgeous gardens, quaint back lanes and stately architecture – all within a relatively flat area with only one token hill to challenge the serious cyclist. Add in a slower-paced lifestyle and little vehicle traffic for the perfect recipe for two-wheeled success.
Karl Ullrich, owner of Oak Bay Bicycles couldn’t imagine a more inviting area to cycle in.
“Traffic moves slowly so you don’t feel intimidated by the vehicles and it isn’t congested.”
The area offers easy cycle access. There are designated bike routes marked by green signs. Cyclists should take a self-guided ride along the seaside touring route of scenic Beach Drive. Hugging the Pacific Ocean with stunning vista viewpoints, the lush Royal Victoria Golf Course and bountiful beaches to explore along the way, the horizon is set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Baker.
“The waterfront ride is awesome, the ocean and the homes – it is fantastic,” enthusess Ullrich.
The more leisurely pedaller can opt for idyllic days spent cruising the shops, restaurants and pubs. Oak Bay offers a minimum of steep grades, which, coupled with light traffic, makes the area safe for the entire cycling family.
The ability to slow down and take the time to enjoy your vacation is another benefit of bicycling.
“Cycling allows you to cover more ground than walking, but at a much slower and healthier pace than being behind the wheel of a vehicle,” explains avid cyclist Brian Hobson, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and Marine Resort manager. “And on a bicycle, parking is never a problem.”
“To grab a picnic and cycle down to the beach – it is second to none,” adds Hobson.
Bicycle rentals and tours:
The Oak Bay Beach Hotel and Marine Resort offers complimentary bicycles to guests and runs cycling package trips. Choose from half-day jaunts along the Galloping Goose Trail to full-day excursions to the San Juan Islands (598-4556). The Oak Bay Guest House has a bicycle built for two for the complimentary use of their guests (598-3812). ;