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Bicycling enthusiasts can pedal through the Keys during the 200-mile BubbaFest Bike Tour, set for Nov. 7 through 14.
The seven-night bicycling adventure was created by retired police Sgt. Bubba Barron, who has pedaled across America from the Atlantic to the Pacific, to enable fellow cycling fans to discover the Keys' environment and attractions while enjoying their favorite sport.
BubbaFest cyclists are to travel from Key Largo to Key West and back along U.S. 1.
"Exploring the Florida Keys by bicycle allows riders the chance to see, hear, smell and taste the Keys," said Barron, who first pedaled through the island chain in 2002 and has since hosted regular repeat rides for friends and fellow cyclists. "I love seeing riders from all over the country taking in the attractions, the weather, the people, the scenery and the local flavor."
Riders proceed at their own pace each day, with plenty of time for activities ranging from swimming with dolphins and visiting eco-attractions to sailing, snorkeling, sunning and exploring colorful galleries and boutiques. Support vehicles are available to transport anyone who chooses to take a break from cycling.
BubbaFest begins in Key Largo on Nov. 7, with a 2 to 4 p.m. registration at the Key Largo Resort at Manatee Bay, mile marker 102.4, followed by a welcome beach party. Participants bike from Key Largo to the Marathon area the next day, with a Monday layover day.
The Nov. 10 route takes bicyclists to Key West, where they spend two layover days. They begin the return trek on Nov. 13, and arrive in Key Largo the following day.
The fee is $595 per rider, which includes six nights of tent lodging at beachside campgrounds, seven breakfasts and five dinners, a private open-air trolley tour of Key West, social events such as beach parties and a farewell dinner, and services of a baggage truck and support vehicle. Motel lodging is available for an additional fee, as are pampering options.
For more details, go to www.bubbafestbiketours.com.