Tasting the Goose – Bike Destinations along Victoria’s Trail

Time to dust off the old Apollo and hit the trail. With no end in sight of this glorious sunny weather, Victorians are out and about enjoying the local bike paths, trails, and walkways. If you happen to find yourself as one of those happy cyclists riding the Galloping Goose or Lochside Trails, be sure to stop in and refuel along the way. Whether or not you are headed to Sidney, Sooke, or just staying in town, there are plenty of great spots to sit and catch your breath. 

The Galloping Goose trail

Pizzeria Prima Strada

If you’re heading south back to town after a long ride, you can take refuge at Prima Strada Bridge Street. Located in a converted garage, the Bridge Street location offers all the same classical Italian pizzas as the Cook Street location, but with much more seating. Nothing is as rejuvenating as a salty pizza and a cold glass of beer after a long ride.

How to get there:

When heading south back into town, take the left just before the wooden bridge at the Selkirk waterway. Once the trail ends at Jutland Avenue (which turns into Garbally Street) take a right, then another right onto Bridge Street.

Pizzeria Prima Strada

2960 Bridge Street V8T 4T3

250-590-4380

Website

Twitter: @PrimaStrada 

Instagram: @primastrada

Facebook: pizzeriaprimastrada

Sea Cider

For a fun-filled day trip, jump on your bike and head towards Sidney on the Lochside Trail. Only an hour and a half by bike, you can enjoy the spaciousness of the apple orchard, and views of the Pacific Ocean. Relax with an artisan meal and a glass of cider, or enjoy the tastings and tour offered from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (reservations recommended).

How to get there:

Head towards Sidney on the Lochside Trail. From the Lochside Trail, continue on Lochside Drive then take a left onto Mount Newton Cross Road, a right onto Central Saanich Rd, and another right onto Mount St Michael Road.

Sea Cider

2487 Mount. St. Michael Road V8M 1T7

250-544-4824

Website

Twitter: @SeaCiderhouse

Instagram: @seaciderhouse

Facebook: seacider

Stickleback West Coast Eatery

Located five minutes outside of Sooke, Stickleback Eatery is a great out-of-town destination. Come to relax on the patio overlooking Copper’s Cove and stay to delight in the classic west coast dining featuring a wide array of burgers and fresh fish.

How to get there:

When heading towards Sooke on the Goose, take a left onto Sooke Road. Stickleback is a short way down the road on the left.

Stickleback West Coast Eatery

5449 Sooke Road Sooke V9Z 0C8

778-425-4499

Website

Twitter: @Sticklebackeats

Facebook: sticklebackeatery

Gobind Food Market Ltd

If you’re looking for a quick little snack along your ride, stop in at Gobind Food Market for a warm and spicy samosa and a traditional Indian sweet. While you’re there, take the time to browse the wide assortment of spices, flat breads, and dried goods. Your pantry will thank you.

How to get there:

If you’re heading out of town, take a left onto Quadra Street off the Galloping Goose Trail. Gobind Food Mart will be to the right just past McKenzie Avenue.

Gobind Food Market Ltd

8-4011 Quadra Street V8X 1K1

250-479-8884

Website

Wheelies Cafe

A perfect fit for Rock Bay’s industrial atmosphere, Wheelie’s has an authentic modern vibe. Sharing a home with a classic motorcycle repair shop, the cafe offers plenty of gourmet sandwiches, starters, and French press coffees from the nearby Bows X Arrows roastery. While you may only arrive on a peddle bike, be sure to check out their choppers for some bike-spiration.

How to get there:

When riding on the Goose towards town, take a left onto Gorge Road East, then a right onto Rock Bay Avenue.

 Editors Note: Check out more on Wheelies in the print issue here.

Wheelies Motorcycles

2620 Rock Bay Avenue V8T 3R9

250-995-9359

Website

Instagram: @wheeliesmotorcycles

Facebook: wheeliesmotorcycle