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Atlantic Canada's Largest Gran Fondo!

  • Explore the Panoramic Coastal Routes of Clare

    Navigate rolling inland roads and discover towering wooden churches along the panoramic coastal route that hugs beautiful Baie Sainte-Marie.

    See all routes

    Experienced
    Gran Fondo

    128 km

    Intermediate
    Medio Fondo

    67 km

    Beginner
    Piccolo Fondo

    35 km
  • Come for the cycling, return for the hospitality
    A welcoming community and a taste of the Acadian culture

    Discover the warm Acadian hospitality that makes Clare so special. From friendly smiles and delicious local cuisine to vibrant culture and coastal charm, experience why so many riders return year after year—not just for the cycling, but for the unforgettable welcome.

    Hospitality and Culture
  • Registration Price

    Swag Bag, Chip Timed Race, Lobster Meal, and More. Explore What the Fondo has to Offer!

    Pricing
    Fondo Schedule

    Join us for registration and a friendly outing with light refreshments, an art market, and music on Saturday, September 12, 2026. And on Sunday, September 13, 2026? We roll!

    Schedule
  • Volunteers are the heart of the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie

    Each year, over 100 dedicated individuals give their time, energy, and enthusiasm to make the event a success. Their commitment and community spirit are what make the Fondo such an outstanding and memorable experience for everyone involved.

    Learn about volunteering
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Interested? Still have questions before signing up? Check out our comprehensive list of frequently asked questions.

    See all questions

    Gran Fondo means "grand tour" or "great distance" in Italian, which is a mass-start cycling ride which brings together road cyclists of all abilities. It is a growing sporting and cultural experience originating in Europe, and in recent years, has become popular in North America. The Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie will appeal to those looking to ride for fun, for good health and to take on a personal challenge, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery in a safe environment. Although a timed event, this is more of a self-paced FUN group event, rather than a race.

    Gran and Medio Fondo riders must maintain a minimum average speed of 15 km/h (including rest stations). If you are travelling below the 15 km/h average speed, you will at some point be passed by the Event Sweep vehicle. You will then be advised to accept a ride to the finish line. If you do not accept a ride to the finish line and decide instead to continue riding, the following details are in effect for the duration of your ride to the finish line:

    • Water, nutritional and medical support from the event may be unavailable for the remainder of your trip
    • If you are unable to reach the finish line by 3:30 p.m., your finish time may be recorded as Did Not Finish (DNF)

    Yes! Just send us an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or give us a call at 902-769-2031 and ask for Ashley. We understand that many of you may be debating which distance to ride. We highly recommend that you sign up early to take advantage of the best value jersey package. You can actually change your route distance on the morning of event day!
  • Unforgettable Experiences

    Read all testimonials

    • Elizabeth Kennedy, Halifax, NS

      Photo of cyclists. Elizabeth Kennedy is wearing black

      I came for the ride, but what I’ll remember most is the community. The incredible volunteers, cheering crowds, live music, and fricot made it feel like we were being welcomed into something special. It was so much more than a bike ride, it was a wonderful tourism experience and a real glimpse into a beautiful way of life.

      (Elizabeth is wearing black in the photo)

    • Rod Oliveira, Halifax, NS

      Photo of Rod Oliveira

      The Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie was a fantastic experience! The event was extremely well organized from start to finish, and the volunteers were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful. The roads were in excellent condition, which made the ride even more enjoyable, and the food was great. You could really see the care and effort that went into organizing the event. A wonderful cycling experience and a great event. I would definitely participate again!

    • Helga Guderley, Boutilier's Point, NS

      Photo of Helga Guderley

      The Gran Fondo event is welcoming, exciting and so nicely embraced by the community. You get energy for your ride from the people around you!

    • Murray Strum, Ontario

      This was my first Gran Fondo and I cannot speak highly enough of how well it was run and the fantastic organizers and volunteers. What a terrific experience and one I would highly recommend to anyone. All details were well thought out from music to timed racing to clear directions and impeccable details to answer all my questions. Everything made my trip to participate one to always remember.

    • Jennifer Carey, Cole Harbour, NS

      The community involvement is heartwarming. From the amazing volunteers at the race site and helpful marshals along the way, to all the people sitting in their driveways cheering us on. The positive vibes were contagious. It was a truly amazing and unique experience that still leaves me smiling days later.