Taste of Embrosia (57km)

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Experience Level: Moderate to difficult experienced.
Route Surface: Gravel and paved roads with a few short trails. Rolling terrain. Gravel, cyclocross, hybrid or mountain bike recommended.
Route Length: 57 km

Route Description:
In Greek mythology, ambrosia was the elixir of the gods, granting longevity to whomever consumed it. With long stretches of gravel north of Ingersoll, this route offers similar promise. Wind out of town on a few park trails, then gradually gain elevation to the village of Embro, before cruising mostly downhill back into town.

Two-thirds of this route rolls along gravel roads and trails, making for a quiet and safe ride that will take most riders 2-3 hours to complete. We head west along 62 Road for some easy rollers that warm up the legs for the ride ahead. Turning north, we follow the creek towards Thamesford, ducking onto an easy single-track stretch that brings us into town for an early pit stop if you choose. From there, we alternate paved and gravel sections through scenic farmland that stretches out all around us before arriving in Embro – hitting Kintore Coffee for an espresso elixir and treat.

It's all downhill from here! Well, mostly downhill – pedaling along tree-lined country lanes before one final sweep along 64 Road and 35^th line. Here, we might well have saved the best for last. Forest on one side, farmland on the right, and a steady descent that sweeps right into a series of gradual rolling climbs. We wrap up with a ride along Ingersoll’s main street – and perhaps, a post-ride lunch.

Route Notes:
For the most part, special attention must be paid when riding the paved roads around here. (We’ve ridden this route and encountered barely a dozen vehicles on all the gravel sections combined.)

Take care when turning on and off County Road 119 on the way out of Ingersoll. Make sure to stay to the right side when climbing the hills out of Thamesford. Take a good look before crossing 37^th Line on 66 Road. Slow down for passing traffic and agricultural vehicles. Be aware that gravel roadways are maintained at various times throughout the year, and while generally in good condition, may be in varied states of repair which can include fresh grading. As on all cycling routes, exercise caution at all times. 

Start/Finish Point: Victoria Park, Ingersoll – 125 Centennial Lane, Ingersoll (View Map)

Stops Enroute (Seasonal hours, check website before visiting):

• Tim Hortons - Oxford County Rd No 2, Thamesford (View Map)
• Kintore Coffee Co. - 117 Huron St, Embro, ON N0J 1J0 (View Map) - http://www.kintorecoffee.com/
• The Olde Bakery Café - 120 Thames St S, Ingersoll, ON (View Map) - https://www.oldebakerycafe.com/ 
• Ingersoll Cheese & Agricultural Museum - 290 Harris St, Ingersoll – in Victoria Park (View Map)
• Ingersoll Creative Arts Centre - 125 Centennial Ln, Ingersoll – in Victoria Park (View Map) - http://creativeartscentre.com/

Check out our full FAQ section here. 

Additional Information and Resources:

• Tourism Oxford – www.tourismoxford.ca
• Ontario By Bike - www.ontariobybike.ca/southwestontario (Find locations of certified bicycle-friendly businesses in Oxford County).

Disclaimer:
Cyclists are encouraged to evaluate the route based on level of experience and comfort level on cycling on gravel, and be prepared that dust and gravel may become airborne at all times. By using this route map, cyclists demonstrate they have read and understood the safety rules and disclaimer and agree to be bound by it.  It is a suggested route only. The suggested route does not have formal bike lanes and all cyclists ride at their own risk. Road conditions and traffic levels may vary from time of map printing or posting. Caution and common sense must be used when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Cyclists must comply with the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, C.H-8 as amended.  Oxford County does not assume any liability whatsoever for cyclists travelling upon a suggested route. Oxford County is not responsible for any loss, costs or expenses incurred by cyclists while travelling upon suggested routes.