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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or biking around Paris in search of the flakiest croissant, employ these rad travel hacks from MEC staffers and Ambassadors to make the most of your time on the road.

**1. Go light.** Pack everything you need (nothing you “might” wear), then remove half – you’ll be surprised how freeing it is to go with less. Bonus tip: [fast-drying, no-iron shirts](/en/products/clothing/shirts-and-tops/long-sleeved-shirts) are a saving grace on hot days (wear them damp and still look good at dinner), and merino wool is naturally odour-fighting for long stretches on the road.

**2. Kiss your comfort zone goodbye.** Embrace curiosity and ditch your traditional notions of time and schedule. In fact, leave your watch at home.

**3. Say yes.** Yes is the password to awesome – dining with locals, moonlit skinny-dips in lakes or trail runs through the rainforest.

**4. Don’t bring t-shirts.** Instead, buy them at your destination. Once you’re home, they’re wearable souvenirs.

**5. Watch your back(pack).** If you’re travelling with a checked backpack, get a cover to protect the straps and buckles from overzealous luggage handlers and rollers at airports. Some bags even have straps that tuck away.

**6. Two words: ear plugs.** ‘Nuff said.

**7. Embrace the pause.** Bad weather and indoor days happen. Lift your spirits with playlists, an e-reader, podcasts or a [sketchbook](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/notebooks-and-pens).

**8. Keep a record.** Write it all down – from the epic hiking sandwich to the time your only dinner companion was a street cat – take photos or videos, and collect ticket stubs or brochures. Don’t want to carry paper memories along? Mail them home as you go.

**9. Be grateful.** Being rude to a customer service agent will never get you to your destination faster. If your travel plans get screwed up, take a deep breath and remember how lucky you are to be able to travel in the first place.

**10. Little things make a big difference.** Use SeatGuru.com to stake out a comfy airline seat, bring a [packable travel pillow](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-sleeping-pads-quilts-and-pillows/camp-pillows) and wear comfortable shoes. Pack a [squishy water bottle](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-accessories/water-bottles/collapsible-bottles) to stay hydrated through security.

**11. Roll with it.** Don’t be afraid to wait until you’re at your destination to book any local tours or excursions. You’ll often find better deals and recommendations from fellow travellers.

**12. Speak up.** Learn “hello,” “thank you,” and “coffee, please” in the local language. When all else fails, Pictionary your way through.

**13. Depart in good health.** Before you take off, make sure you’re set for dental work, prescriptions and vaccinations. Be sure to leave space between your appointments and your departure date in case anything needs a follow-up. And always get travel insurance.

**14. Don’t be afraid to travel solo.** You’ll be surprised how savvy you truly are when left to your own devices, plus it’s easier to meet locals and other travellers.

**15. Think beyond your hotel safe.** Scan and email a copy of all your important documents and IDs either to yourself or a friend or family member in case anything goes missing.

**16. Travel isn’t a competition.** The point of leaving isn’t to launch a new career as an Instagram star. Go for you. See what you came to see, be open and maybe don’t even take a photo. Nobody needs picture proof that you’re #blessed.



## Related articles
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [How to choose a travel adapter](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-travel-adapter)
- [Roll or fold: packing tips from the pros](/en/article/roll-or-fold-packing-tips-from-the-pros)



Use these savvy travel tips, packing hacks and life lessons to get ready for some of the best times (and memories) of your life.

16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians

Burlington, Hamilton and the surrounding area are home to lush parks, scenic trails and an impressive number of waterfalls. You’ll have plenty of scenic views to enjoy on any route you choose. Grab a run buddy and explore somewhere new with these 6 ideas for running routes in the region.

#### Kerncliff Park Climb (3K)


Kerncliff Park offers a variety of double track trails, challenging hills and rocky sections for the runner looking to improve their technical skills. While you’re on this [3-kilometre run](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6948457), you can get a spectacular view of Burlington, Hamilton – and on a clear day, even Toronto – from the top of the escarpment hills.


#### Stair Circuit Challenge (6K)


The stairs accessing the Hamilton Escarpment alongside the city are popular with not only Hamiltonians, but many fitness enthusiasts of the GTA. For a solid workout, try Burlington’s [6-kilometre Stair Circuit](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6951977). Starting at Chedoke Civic Golf Course, you’ll run up and down 289 Chedoke stairs and then head over to the Dundurn stairs, where you’ll run up and down another 326 steps. Rinse and repeat!


#### Smooth Hendrie Valley Run (7K)


This gentle [7-kilometre run](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6951984) on a multi-use trail is great for beginners as it provides even footing on relatively flat terrain. This is also an excellent spot to add some [speed training](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work) into your workout. Along the way, you might spot birds, deer and other local wildlife. (Make sure to stay on the trails as the Royal Botanical Garden doesn’t allow runners on their property.)


#### MEC to Newport Out-and-Back run (12K)


Starting from [MEC Burlington](/en/stores/burlington), you’ll head over to Roly Bird Park before embarking on the Hydrocut Trail that will take you to Newport Park and back. This [12-kilometre trail](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6948475) is a favourite of the MEC Burlington running club as the route offers plenty of space as well as gentle rolling hills away from traffic.


#### Streams and Climbs Point-to-Point Run (15K)


Set off with a friend and two cars; leave one car at Highland Gardens Park – the start of this [15-kilometre run](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6952021) – and the other by Valleyside Lane and Davidson Blvd in Hamilton. You’ll follow the Bruce Trail where you’ll come across some of Hamilton’s famous stairs and pass through conservation areas like Iroquoia Heights, Tiffany Falls, Canterbury Falls and many more.


#### Bruce Trail Old-Growth and Cascading Waters Run (20K)


The Bruce Trail is a great place to tackle a long-distance [20-kilometre run](https://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6952014). Many spots provide free parking, like Hidden Valley Park, Kerncliff Park as well as several streets. Set out with a run buddy and make sure to bring along your [GPS watch](/en/products/electronics/watches-and-trackers/watches-with-gps) or download the [Bruce Trail App](https://brucetrail.org/bruce-trail-app/) on your phone, which offers up-to-date info on the trail along with potential side trails and parking access.




The area around Burlington offers a diverse range of routes that lead you past waterfalls, over hills and stairs, and across different terrain. Why run on just sidewalks when you can explore the full beauty of the city’s natural landscape? Happy running!

*Photo credits: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock.com, peters011235 / Shutterstock.com*



## Related articles
- [Get the tempo run 101](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101)
- [How to do hill workouts](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-do-hill-workouts)
- [How to get fast with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)



Some of the best places to run around Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario. Check out 6 routes around Roly Bird Park, Bruce Trail, the stair circuit and more.

Awesome Running Routes around Burlington and Hamilton

Awesome run routes around Burlington

Whether running’s part of your weekday schedule or your weekend fun, you might find yourself growing tired of following the same paths over and over again. To break out of a running rut, check out these great route ideas and inspiration around Ottawa-Gatineau.

From urban scenery to peaceful parks and riverside trails, these routes offer something for every runner. Grab your run buddy to explore somewhere new – lace up, Ottawa, it’s time to get out there!

#### Arboretum Run Route (3K)


This short, snappy [3-kilometre route](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941903) through Ottawa’s Arboretum will give your legs (and lungs) a quick and satisfying workout. If 3 kilometres isn’t enough to get your heart rate going, you can throw in extra loops for an added push.



Head out to Parc la Baie in Gatineau for a workout in a peaceful setting. This [5-kilometre loop](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941906) takes you through the park and along the Ottawa River, where you’ll find sparkling waters and very little traffic.

#### Rockcliffe and River Views Run (7K)


This [7-kilometre route](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941910) starts in Rockcliffe Park Pavilion and heads along the river that separates Ontario and Quebec. Once you reach your halfway point, the second part of your run brings you through quiet residential neighbourhoods before connecting with Rockcliffe Driveway to return where you started.

#### Run the Canal Route (10K)


Home to the Ottawa 10K, this [iconic canal loop](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941915) provides traffic-free paths surrounded by beautiful scenery. Your run starts on the Rideau Canal Western Pathway by City Hall and takes you down to Dow’s Lake, where you’ll cross over onto the Rideau Canal Eastern Pathway. Follow this path until you reach the Corktown Footbridge, then cross back over onto the Western Pathway to finish your run at City Hall.



Strap on your favourite runners and a GPS watch, and set off on this [12-kilometre jaunt](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941925) through the city. Starting at the [MEC Ottawa](/en/stores/ottawa) store on Richmond Road in Westboro (a good place to pick up [energy gels](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen/food-and-drink/training-food-and-drinks/energy-gels-and-chews) before you start), you’ll make your way through Wellington West, Fisher Park, Little Italy, Chinatown and Centretown. After working up an appetite, end your run at [Bridgehead](https://www.bridgehead.ca/), where a cup of coffee and a treat await.

#### South March Highlands Forest and Lakes Run (13K)


Outside the heart of Ottawa is the South March Highlands Conservation Forest. The old-growth forest is home to more than lots of trails including this [13-kilometre trail route](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941954) for you to explore, surrounded by ponds and sugar maple trees.

#### Across the Border Route (20K)


If you’re up for the ultimate adventure through Ottawa, try tackling this [20-kilometre route](https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6941939). You’ll start at the Arboretum and head all the way to Quebec, where you’ll enter Gatineau Park for some light trail running. From sidewalks and towering trees to flowing rivers and pretty forests, this journey will give you a taste of everything the Ottawa region has to offer.



#### Have fun exploring
Whether you prefer a relaxed run through Ottawa’s Arboretum or a challenging route across rocky terrain, you’ll have an excellent time exploring routes and trail around Ottawa. Looking for a run watch to help track your route? Learn [how to choose the right running watch](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-fitness-watch-or-fitness-tracker) for you.

*Photo credit: [Chanan Greenblatt](https://stocksnap.io/photo/running-fitness-RMDYXIJFJN)*



## Related articles
- [How to get fast with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)
- [The art of the long run](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-the-art-of-the-long-run)
- [How to prep for race day](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-prep-for-race-day)



Discover some of the best places to run in Ottawa. Check out 7 great mapped run routes featuring forests, rivers, coffee and more.

Awesome Running Routes in Ottawa-Gatineau

Awesome run routes in Ottawa-Gatineau

*From relaxing mud baths and natural attractions to action packed trails and fun obstacle courses, these are the top spots to muddy things up.*



### Mountain biking on Vancouver’s North Shore, Canada


Bring your bike to the North Shore in October or February and prepare to get dirty. The constant downpour muddies up every twist and turn, giving your ride an added challenge. With so much terrain to explore, you won’t want to let the soggy conditions stop you. Just wear your sludge like a badge of honour. That said, [layers](/en/ideal-for/cycling+mountain-biking/products/clothing/c/981?q=%3Asales-rank) are wise.



Forget clinical-feeling float therapy tanks – keep it natural with a trip to the Dead Sea. As the saltiest body of water in the world, a dip in these waters is said to relieve joint pain, heart complications and even skin problems. Smear on some mud before taking a dip to remove toxins and toss on your [packable robe](/en/product/5034-747/RobeTowl-Personal-Towel) on the way out.



Fitness buffs looking for a new challenge will love the [Rugged Maniac 5k](http://ruggedmaniac.com/). With Canadian stops in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver plus races across the United States, there’s plenty of opportunity to get in on the rugged fun. Expect playground-style challenges: slide, monkey bar rings and see-saw-like obstacles – and a bunch of mud. Before you hit the Shoe Catcher make sure you heel-lock those runners!



An archipelago of over 500 islands, Palau is home to more than a few mysteries. Adventurous [beach travellers](/en/products/clothing/swimwear/c/1036?q=%3Asales-rank) can swim with golden jellyfish in the Rock Islands (these isolated marine animals have lost their sting) before making your way to the Milky Way Lagoon to coat up with shining white limestone mud and rinsing off with a [snorkel](/en/products/gear/snorkel-gear/c/1417?q=%3Asales-rank) session.



Active travellers exploring the land of fire and ice will undoubtedly make a stop in Reykjavik, but few may take the short 35 minute car ride to Hveragerði. The small town is just 45km east of the capital and is located in an active volcanic zone, giving tourists a great display of the country’s geothermal activity – including its mud baths, which are said to offer natural pain-relief for hikers and wanderers looking to dip their tired feet.



Best places in the world to get muddy | MEC blog

Best places in the world to get muddy

With the rise of camping inspiration accounts on Instagram, we all want to get in on the action. Last year we launched a hashtag to showcase favourite places to wake up in the great outdoors. Every week we shared a photo using the hashtag #FromtheTentFriday. These are some of our all-time faves to get you into the camping spirit.



##### Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario


Location: [Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/algonquin)

Get the tent: [MSR Elixir 2 Tent](/en/product/6034-311/msr-elixir-2-person-tent)



Location: [Mt. Robson, BC](https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/)

Get the tent: [MEC TGV 2-Person 4-Season Tent](/en/product/5047-590/mec-tgv-2-person-4-season-tent)



Location: [Crowsnest Pass, Alberta](https://www.travelalberta.com/listings/crowsnest-pass-campground-11646)

Similar tent: [Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 4-Person Tent](/en/product/6034-270/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul-4-person-tent)



Location: [5040 Vancouver Island, BC](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/5040+Peak/@49.1918793,-125.767235,9z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5489aa2ebdcfbbb1:0xce50cb94f0cf8cce!8m2!3d49.1916666!4d-125.2825!16s%2Fg%2F11clg9m_c6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDUwNy4wIKXMDSoJLDEwMjExNDU1SAFQAw%3D%3D)

Similar tent: [MEC Camper 2.0 2-Person Tent](/en/product/6022-097/mec-camper-20-2-person-tent)



Location: [Brockton Point, Mount Seymour, BC](https://bcparks.ca/mount-seymour-park/)

Similar tent: [Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2-Person Long Tent](/en/product/6019-892/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul-2-person-long-tent)



Location: [Whistler, BC](https://www.whistler.com/activities/camping/)

Similar tent: [MSR Hubba Hubba LT 1-Person Tent](/en/product/6034-307/msr-hubba-hubba-lt-1-person-tent)



##### Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ontario


Location: [Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/rainbowfalls)

Get the tent: [MEC Volt LT 2-Person Tent](/en/product/6031-131/mec-volt-lt-2-person-tent)



Location: [Killbear Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/killbear)

Similar tent: [MEC Cabin 2.0 4-Person Tent](/en/product/5060-365/mec-cabin-20-4-person-tent)



Location: Somewhere in [Saskatchewan](https://www.saskparks.net/)

Similar tent: [Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2-Person Tent](/en/product/6034-266/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul-2-person-tent)

*Show us your favourite places to camp. Tag us on Instagram using @mec and #FromtheTentFriday for a chance to be featured.*



## Related articles
- [How to choose a tent](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-tent)
- [How to choose a sleeping bag](/en/explore/choose-your-sleeping-bag)
- [How to choose a sleeping pad](/en/explore/about-sleeping-pads)



Your favourite places to wake up camping | MEC Blog

Your favourite places to wake up camping

The task was simple: move from Ottawa to Vancouver in five days. With those instructions, it would have been easy to think of it as nothing more than A to B, and a 5500 km straight shot across the continent. And why not? A new job, a new city, and a new life were waiting out west. It could have been little more than one long ride.

Five days of the driver seat and the fast lane. An endless number of billboards, truck stops, and little white lines, blurred together by the vision of a single destination. But it also could have been a lifetime worth of opportunity, slipping through our fingers with each kilometer traveled. A world of adventure, passing by as fast as the road we traveled over.

See, if there’s one thing I’ve come to believe, it’s that the greatest experiences are not exclusive to the grandest plans. The moments we so deeply long to live are in no way reserved for only the most exotic trips. They are held for those who search for them, who step out of the everyday routine, and who take them. It was this simple belief that made those five days so much more than a long drive. It transformed them into an opportunity to explore, adventure, and connect with a world we then knew nothing about. It turned a car ride into a road trip, and turned the kilometers into opportunities to seek the unknown. The journey became a destination in and of itself.

Because of that simple shift, I don’t have to tell you what I think it could have been. I can show you.

It was taking moments to get back to the things that matter most:



and chance after chance to embrace the unknown.



It was taking time to make new friends:



and learning lessons in history, without stepping into a classroom.



It was places that looked like different planets,



and waking up on the side of a mountain.



knowing full well it would likely lead us astray.



It was landscapes that left us looking at this world differently



and moments we still can’t find the words to describe.



It was a reminder that some of the best things are not on the well-travelled path



and that sometimes you have to go where there is no path at all.



And coffee just about anywhere we could get our hands on it.



It was a reminder that the “little moments” really aren’t so little.



And that we should spend just a little more time kicking back and taking it in.



It was Ottawa, Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Minnesota, Badlands, Rushmore, Black Hills, Big Horn, Yellowstone, Butte, Columbia, Seattle, home and everything in between.



We saw things we didn’t know existed and learned things we didn’t know were there to learn. Felt emotions we didn’t know we could feel and created memories that will change the way we live our lives.

It was anything but A to B.



*This post was submitted by Julian DeSchutter from [Chasing Sunrise](https://www.instagram.com/ChasingSunrise/). You can keep up with Julian on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/deshoots/).*



## Related articles
- [Chasing Sunrise: 36 hours in the unknown](/en/article/chasing-sunrise-36-hours-in-the-unknown)
- [The bucket list for adventurous Canadians](/en/article/the-bucket-list-for-adventurous-canadians)
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now)

Vancouver to Ottawa: Finding adventure at every turn | MEC Blog

Vancouver to Ottawa: Finding adventure at every turn

Biking is one of the best ways to see Europe’s ancient towns, rolling vineyards and historic castles. And of course, any good riding holiday should include great food and wine. Beaune, France has it all. I took a couple of riders from *Canadian Cyclist* magazine for a tour of my top places to bike around Burgundy.

It was quite by chance that [Burgundy](https://www.burgundy-tourism.com/) became one of my favourite spots to ride. In the late 1980s, I was trying to get back into race shape after an injury and had the idea to get in my miles in Europe. I sold a bike, cashed in savings from working in a bike shop, and headed to Amsterdam. The plan was to ride to the south of France, then to London, and be home in Winnipeg by mid-July.

Instead, I ended up staying for three years.

I got a job as a bike mechanic in [Beaune, France](https://www.beaune-tourism.com/), and travelled around Europe with my bike. Since then, Beaune has always been a special place to me and it has some of the most diverse riding anywhere (along with some of the world’s best food and wine). So when Sam and Chris from *Canadian Cyclist* magazine asked if I could show them around Beaune for a few days before [Eurobike](https://eurobike.com/frankfurt/en.html), I couldn’t refuse.

I brought my own bike from Vancouver with the [EVOC bike bag](/en/product/6000-947/evoc-bike-travel-bag-pro). For trips like this, I like having my own bike. It just feels like home and it’s always worth the effort it takes to travel with. The good folks at Ridley Bikes hooked Sam and Chris up with a couple of lightweight 2015 Ultegra-equipped Ridley Helium bikes for this trip. The Helium has a sub-1000-gram frame but is still compliant and comfortable, which is really important for long days in the saddle on the back roads of France.



The three of us met in Beaune, and even though we were a bit jet-lagged it was too nice a day not to go for a short warm-up ride to work the cobwebs out. The traditional first ride for me in Beaune has always been out to [La Rochepot](https://www.beaune-tourism.com/explore/villages-around-beaune/near-nolay/la-rochepot/), a medieval castle built in the thirteenth century and then rebuilt in the nineteenth century after the French Revolution.



The ride starts off on paths through the [Beaune](https://www.bourgogne-wines.com/wine-and-terroir/bourgogne-and-its-appellations/beaune,2458,9253.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0yMjc4JmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MjE4Jnw%3D) and [Pommard](https://www.bourgogne-wines.com/wine-and-terroir/bourgogne-and-its-appellations/pommard,2458,9253.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0yMjc4JmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MzcwJnw%3D) vineyards, then a bit of climbing takes you to a ripping descent though the town of d’Orches and on to La Rochepot. After stopping to see the castle and snapping some pics, we rode back to Beaune through the vineyards of [Puligny-Montrachet](https://www.bourgogne-wines.com/wine-and-terroir/bourgogne-and-its-appellations/puligny-montrachet,2458,9253.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0yMjc4JmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9Mzc4Jnw%3D) and [Meursault](https://www.bourgogne-wines.com/wine-and-terroir/bourgogne-and-its-appellations/meursault,2458,9253.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0yMjc4JmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MzQ5Jnw%3D), home of some of the best white wines in the world. Beaune is the centre of the Burgundy wine trade, and one of the highlights for me here is tasting wines that I’d never be able to get in Canada.





The meeting place in Beaune is always the Grand Café, a busy traditional café in the centre of town. So the next morning, we met there for breakfast, had their specialty – a Grand Crème, a tasty coffee with warm cream – and went over the days’ route, which is one I look forward to every time I’m in Burgundy.



The route heads towards [Dijon](https://en.destinationdijon.com/) through [Pernand-Vergelesses](https://www.bourgogne-wines.com/wine-and-terroir/bourgogne-and-its-appellations/pernand-vergelesses,2458,9253.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0yMjc4JmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MzY0Jnw%3D), and then goes up a steep climb to the top of the Côte through the village of Échevronne. After that, the route winds through the Burgundy countryside to Pont-de-Pany. Like all rides through this area, you’re never more than a few kilometres from a town, there’s never a chance of running out of water, and your next available coffee stop is always close.

The best part of this ride is stopping in [Châteauneuf-en-Auxois](https://www.burgundy-tourism.com/staying-in-burgundy/where-to-go-in-burgundy-towns-villages-destinations/chateauneuf-en-auxois-village-and-chateau/), a hilltop fortress built in the fifteenth century with some fascinating history. A café in the central square is the perfect lunch spot; there’s nothing better than having lunch surrounded by a fifteenth-century fortress. After lunch it’s up and over the Côte and through a valley back to Beaune for a 110km day.

When I told Sam and Chris about the riding, I sold it as rolling countryside. After a couple of days of riding, they were pretty convinced it’s just plain hilly. I guess I have to agree.





Day three was a bit shorter to leave some time for exploring Beaune and wine tasting. We went up and down the Côte twice – just to confirm that is indeed hilly – and spent time walking around Beaune and wine tasting. One of the spots we went to was Patriarche Père et Fils. They have the largest cave in Beaune and for 16€ you can walk through kilometres of vaults and taste 16 different wines, including some Premier Crus.



That evening, we went to Le Montrachet, a one-star Michelin restaurant. Going there is an event – the food and service are impeccable. (If you ever get the chance to eat there, do it – you won’t be disappointed.) This meal capped off a few days of decadent eating, from a traditional Burgundy meal at Le Gourmandin to a twist on French fare with an Italian chef at Les Popiettes, along with lots of wine tasting. We needed a long ride to burn off some calories.



After a few 10am Grand Crèmes at Le Grand, we started our final day of riding. Up and over the Côte (again) then through the Burgundy countryside to Autun, a town that dates back to Roman times. In one 50km section of riding, we only saw five cars and rode through countless ancient towns. Each one is like a postcard and perfectly kept, and it’s clear the residents take tremendous pride in their little corner of France. We weren’t in a hurry and stopped to check out churches and châteaux along the route. In Autun, a pizza restaurant at the base of the cathedral was the perfect spot for lunch and a glass of wine. After a cathedral visit, we headed back to Beaune to end off a challenging 125km day.



Over dinner that night, we toasted Burgundy for being such a good host, and tasted wines from towns we’d spent the last four days riding through. I’ve been lucky enough to ride my bike all over the world, and Burgundy remains my favourite. It may not have the iconic climbs from the Tour de Giro and days aren’t necessarily “epic,” but it does have a beautiful countryside with a maze of roads perfect for cycling. If anyone ever needs a tour guide for Beaune, I’m in.



Biking in Burgundy | MEC Blog

Biking in Burgundy

We asked you to tell us your favourite Canadian camping destinations on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/mec/posts/10152042977651610), and the responses came flooding in. From your suggestions, here’s a list of 12 that show off the amazing places our country has to sleep outside. Maybe they’ll inspire you to find a new favourite this summer.

## Algonguin Provincial Park, Ontario
- About a 3-hour drive from Toronto and serviced by our partner [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/)
- Great for families, hiking and canoeing, and getting out of town for the weekend

Located between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River, [Algonquin Provincial Park](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/algonquin) is the oldest provincial park in Canada. With over 2400 lakes and 1200km of streams and rivers within the Algonquin region, the park itself is made up of several smaller, separate provincial parks, so whether you’re a water, forest, or hill person, there’s an Algonquin park for you.



## Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
- Super accessible via the highway and serviced by our partner [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/)
- Camping options for a wide range of outdoor adventurers

With its massive cliffs, old-growth cedars, and pristine waters of Georgian Bay, [Bruce Peninsula National Park](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/bruce) is visually impressive. It’s also got you covered whether you’re looking to car camp, hit the backcountry, or camp in a tent-like structure called a yurt.



## Coppermine River, NWT
- Ideal for the hardy adventurer and those looking to get off the grid
- [Coppermine River](https://nunavutparks.com/heritage_rivers/coppermine-river/) is generally accessed by air charter from Yellowknife. It’s possible to portage up the river systems from the Snare or Yellowknife rivers, but it makes for a long trip.

Located in the North Slave and Kitikmeot regions of the Northwest Territories, the Coppermine River is known for its exceptional rafting, major rapids, and remarkable landscape.



## Discovery Islands, BC
- As the islands’ website claims, getting there is “part of the adventure.”
- Ferry hopping and driving is required, but once you get there, the weather, wildlife, tropical-esque beaches, and year-round recreation is well worth it.

Located on the West Coast between Campbell River (on north-central Vancouver Island) and BC’s mainland, the [Discovery Islands](https://www.discoveryislands.ca/) are tucked between mountains and water, have a relaxed vibe and boast a myriad of outdoor activities.



## Green Point Campground, Gros Morne National ParK, Newfoundland
- This campground operates on self-registration
- Running water, bathrooms, picnic tables, and a kitchen shelter are all cited as amenities

”It’s nestled gently within the coastal tuckamore, with the ocean so close that the saltwater smell and the crashing of the waves are the first thing to greet you in the morning,” explains Lisa Hutchings, who submitted [Green Point Campground](https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/campgrounds-and-parks/211400) as her favourite.



## Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, BC
- Made up of over 15 larger islands and numerous inlets and reefs, the park covers approximately 26 square kilometres of marine areas
- Accessible via a number of options: ferry, seaplane, boat taxi, or private charter

The [Gulf Islands National Park Reserve](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/gulf) is one of Canada’s newest park reserves, and is located in the southern Strait of Georgia with exceptional coastal island landscape. Protecting one of the most ecologically at risk natural regions in Canada, it offers up a variety of overnight options, from populated islands to more remote wilds, depending on what sort of trip you want and what kind of recreation you’re looking for.



## Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia
[Kejimkujik](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ns/kejimkujik) (Keji for short) has numerous drive-in campgrounds, as well as “interior camping,” which are campsites only accessible by canoe or hiking in the summer, or ski or snowshoe in the winter.

Designated almost entirely as a national historic site, Keji is made up of two parts. The main park, which is located along the Nova Scotia peninsula between Queens and Annapolis counties, is known for its canoeing and warm water swimming. Kejimkujik Seaside, the smaller of the two parts, is located on the Atlantic coast of Queens County, and is defined by pristine waters, white sand, and seals basking on nearby rocks.



## Killarney Provincial Park, Georgian Bay Islands, Ontario
- One campground exists within the park, accessed via the George Lake entrance
- The park offers extensive backcountry canoeing and sea kayaking, with yurt accommodation available year-round

Striking with its white quartzite ridges and sapphire lakes, [Killarney Provincial Park](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/killarney) is largely a wilderness park, ideal for those looking to indulge in some solitude and the beauty of an undisturbed natural setting.



## Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta
- Easily accessible via a beautiful drive along Highway 1
- Campground is 1km from the village of Lake Louise and 4km from the lake itself

With gorgeous mountain views and water so blue it looks surreal, you could easily just spend your time staring at the landscape. But the great thing about [Lake Louise](https://www.banfflakelouise.com/business/lake-louise-campground---tent) is that there’s also a ton in the way of outdoor recreation (hiking, canoeing) and nearby Banff (60km away) always makes for interesting exploring.



## Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, Alberta
- Jasper National Park is accessed quite easily via Highway 16
- Camping on Maligne Lake is limited to 4 nights so that everyone gets the chance to stay

[Maligne Lake](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper) is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, encased by a ring of snow-capped mountains and said to “epitomize the drama and the heritage of the Canadian Rockies.” Expect to find whitewater rafting, canoeing, and hiking and feeling like you’ve arrived at one of the breathtaking places in Canada.



## Thousand Islands National Park, Ontario
- Located a few hours from Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa

[Thousand Islands National Park](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/1000) is a small protected area in the heart of the Thousand Islands, defined by its rugged landscape, northern wilderness feel, and focus on sustainable recreation.



## Skagit Valley Provincial Park, BC
- Extends 23km north of the Canada/US border and runs along the east side of Manning Provincial Park
- [Skagit Valley Provincial Park](https://bcparks.ca/skagit-valley-park/) has 3 vehicle-accessed campgrounds, which are fully serviced throughout the summer

Carved out by retreating glaciers, the Skagit Valley is remarkable in its extremes: crazy deep valleys and towering mountain peaks. It’s a space known for its undeveloped wilds and outdoor recreation with up to 50km of trails, river fishing, camping and picnicking.



Inspired to find a new favourite camping destination? Check out our quality assortment of [camping gear](/en/products/camping-and-hiking), [guide books and maps](/en/products/travel-gear/books-maps) to get set up for your summer trip.



12 campsite favourites from our Facebook fans | MEC Blog

12 Campsite favourites from our Facebook fans | MEC Blog

12 favourite Canadian campsites

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