Looking for easy bike rides in Canada? Prince Edward Island offers car‑free cycling on the Confederation Trail and Gulf Shore Parkway. Coastal paths & seafood highlights—perfect for easy cycling vacations in Atlantic Canada.
Prince Edward Island may look small on the map, but once you arrive, it’s clear there’s a lot to explore. Canada’s smallest province is shaped like a smile—224 km long and just 64 km at its widest point—and offers gentle terrain perfect for cycling. You’re never far from the sea, and the laid-back pace makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy slow travel.
Tip-to-Tip on the Confederation Trail
The Confederation Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, stretches across the island from tip to tip, with scenic spur trails along the way. Built on a former railway line, the crushed gravel trail winds through quiet countryside and charming communities, past potato fields, wild blueberries, and blooming lupines in spring. It’s ideal for e-bikes or hybrid bikes and offers a variety of short or multi-day options.
Charlottetown Exploring
Charlottetown, PEI’s capital, is perfect for walking and cycling. The historic core has signed routes leading past major sites, shops, and restaurants. We rented bikes for the day, rode a section of the Confederation Trail, and explored nearby parks and neighbourhoods. We enjoyed our stay at The Sonata Inn, a comfortable and friendly hotel just steps from downtown. Top sights in Charlottetown include:
– Peake’s Wharf – Shops, snacks, and sea breezes
– St. Dunstan’s Basilica – Neo-Gothic cathedral with striking spires
– Victoria Row – Pedestrian-friendly street with cafés and music
– Confederation Centre of the Arts – National historic site & theatre hub
– Great George Street – Charming heritage streetscape
– Province House – Birthplace of Canadian Confederation
– Cows Creamery – PEI’s famous ice cream
Best lobster in town? Try Water Prince Corner Store—a humble spot with unforgettable seafood.
The Gulf Shore Parkway: Coastline & Cavendish
We also loved exploring the Gulf Shore Parkway, a coastal route that combines quiet roads and off-road bike paths. The sections from Cavendish to North Rustico and Brackley Beach to Dalvay were particularly scenic—with ocean views, red cliffs, and white sand beaches.
A visit to Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish was a longtime dream come true. We strolled through the Haunted Woods and Lovers Lane, steeped in the world of Anne and her creator. Nearby, we wandered the Dunelands Trail and boardwalk at Cavendish Beach, imagining Lucy Maud Montgomery gathering inspiration for Anne of Green Gables.
A stay at Dalvay by the Sea, a charming heritage hotel with ocean views and delicious meals, was a memorable highlight.
St. Peter’s Bay & Greenwich Park
Our favourite section of the trail was the peaceful ride from Morell to St. Peter’s Bay, with views of salt marshes, farmlands, and glimpses of the bay.
Continuing from St. Peter’s, the new Greenwich Pathway takes cyclists and walkers to Greenwich Park—a highlight of the trip. Don’t miss: the 0.7km floating boardwalk on Bowley Pond, the interpretive centre, and a walk on the expansive Greenwich Beach. Keep an eye out for the resident fox!
Local Favourites & Trip Tips
Everywhere we went, Islanders were warm, welcoming, and ready to help. That friendliness made our journey even more memorable.
– Confederation Trail Bike Adventures: Rentals, delivery, and self-guided tour support
– PEI Guide & Drive: Luggage transfers, shuttles, and rainy-day rescues
Stays & Eats:
– Golden Dory, Greenwich: Great food & hosts: Julia and Cory
– Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort: Thermal pools, local menu, and tranquil accommodations
Quick Facts: Cycling on the Island
– Confederation Trail: Car-free mostly gravel trail, Tip-to-Tip on the Island
– Gulf Shore Parkway: Separated coastal paths and park trails
– Greenwich Dunes Trail: 9 km round-trip boardwalk and beach walk
– Island Walk: 700 km signed route for walkers and multi-day cyclists
Seafood, Scenery, and Serenity
During our stay we feasted on seafood, especially PEI’s famous lobster—often caught that morning and served the same day. Watching fishing boats at work, followed by a dockside meal, was unforgettable. Between the fresh Atlantic air, red clay roads, and friendly locals, PEI is a place we’ll return to again.
Plan Your PEI Cycling Trip
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just enjoy casual e-bike rides, Prince Edward Island offers one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly routes in Canada. From the flat and peaceful Confederation Trail to the ocean vistas along the Gulf Shore Parkway, there’s a perfect path waiting for you. This blog features tips, trail highlights, and accommodation suggestions to help plan your own PEI cycling adventure.
Want more ideas? Visit Let’s Go Biking’s full trail list for rides across Canada and beyond.
Watch for more great places to ride, walk and roll Around The World with Let’s Go Biking!
Do you have a favourite ride somewhere in the world? If so, I’d love to feature your photos and finds. colleen@letsgobiking.net
Happy Riding! ~ Colleen
