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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. . 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

    • Ray Hubble, Fredericton, NB

      The Baie Sainte-Marie Fondo is a destination event that will not disappoint, whether you are a veteran cyclist or a first timer. From the moment you arrive in the community, the warm Acadian culture and salty air embrace you and make you feel welcome. Shop owners and locals are all welcoming, and the organizing committee is well prepared. Check-in is efficient, and the day of the event is filled with enthusiasm and support from volunteers and families along the route. The finish line makes everyone feel like a champion, and the community meal is served with a smile to ensure you consider a return visit to this gem of a community. Clare and district, thanks for the hospitality - I will be back along with a peleton of my cycling friends.

    • Lisa, Ottawa ON

      I’d heard about this event years ago and finally got the chance to ride it – and it exceeded every expectation. From the seamless organization to the incredible support from residents cheering us on along the beautiful route, every detail was spot on. And the lobster - so sweet. So glad I finally made it!

    • Debrah Roy-Stothart, Jardineville NB

      The Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie was an incredible experience. The event was so well organized, the scenery along the route was absolutely spectacular, and the post-race food was excellent. What stood out most for me was the warmth and enthusiasm of the community — I was amazed at how many local families, of all ages, were out cheering and waving as we rode by. Their energy made the ride even more memorable. I can’t wait to come back!

    • Jessica Ervin, Grand Bay-Westfield NB

      2025 was my first year taking part in the Fondo. It was an exceptionally well planned out event with every detail taken care of. The community support was outstanding and made it all that more memorable. There was just a really great energy with everyone involved. Highly recommend adding it to your list of cycling trips, you won’t be disappointed.

    • Waye Mason, Halifax NS

      The Baie Sainte-Marie Gran Fondo is both a serious cycling event and one of the nicest, most community focused events I've ever attended. Words fail when you try and describe the warm welcome we get from residents, volunteers, and organizers. We can't wait to come back for our fourth time.