Railway Trail Bike and Beach Tour in Bermuda

Bermuda Railway Trail Bike and Beach Tour: A Balanced Look at an Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

If you’re craving a way to see Bermuda beyond the usual cruise ship excursions or crowded beaches, the Railway Trail Bike and Beach Tour offers a compelling mix of history, scenic beauty, and active exploration. For around $116.67 per person, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours covering roughly 6 miles along the old Bermuda Railway Trail, guided by friendly local experts. Afterwards, you’ll relax at a beach, cooling off with a swim and a complimentary soft drink—perfect for those who want a little adventure, some history, and a lot of relaxation.

What we love most about this experience are a couple of standout features: First, the guided commentary makes it easy to learn about Bermuda’s past and natural beauty, transforming a simple bike ride into an engaging story. Second, the combination of cycling and beach time offers real value, blending active sightseeing with genuine relaxation. However, a possible consideration is the length and nature of the ride, which includes some off-road and walking sections, so it’s better suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activity and want to uncover less-touristed areas. If you’re interested in scenic views, historical sites like Fort Scaur, and a laid-back beach experience, this could be your perfect Bermudian day. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary that balances adventure with downtime.

Key Points

• Scenic route along Bermuda’s historic Railway Trail
• Informed guides provide engaging commentary throughout the tour
• Mix of activities: cycling, sightseeing, hiking, and beach relaxing
• Includes equipment and bottled water for convenience
• Moderate physical effort required; suitable for ages 10+
• Opportunity to explore lesser-known Bermudian sights and natural beauty

A Deeper Look at the Railway Trail Bike and Beach Tour in Bermuda

When considering a day in Bermuda, most visitors gravitate toward popular beaches and cruise excursions. Yet, if you’re seeking something more authentic, this tour offers a refreshing way to experience the island’s hidden corners. The key draw is cycling along the historic Bermuda Railway Trail, a path that once served as the island’s main transportation backbone in the 1930s and 40s. This stretch offers a different perspective from the busy beaches and resorts.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Island Tour Centre in the Royal Naval Dockyard—a convenient location if you’re docking there or staying nearby. After a brief safety talk, the guide introduces you to your bike, which is included in the price, along with bottled water. The group, capped at 20 participants, is manageable, ensuring everyone receives decent attention from the guides.

You’ll first visit the Heydon Trust Chapel—a small but charming spot, perfect for a quick history lesson about the local landscape and the cedar trees that surround it. This stop sets the tone for the tour: a relaxed pace combined with insightful commentary. From there, the trail proper begins, about 6 miles of relatively flat terrain that winds through scenic Bermudian countryside.

The Railway Trail and Its Highlights

What makes this trail special is how it reveals Bermuda’s lesser-known sights. You’ll ride along the old railway bed, which gives spectacular views of the island’s lush flora and ocean vistas. As one reviewer noted, “The bike path is not quite like pictured in ad,” with some sections being dirt, rock, or roots—so expect to walk your bike in parts. The guides, Liz and Cameron, are praised for their excellent job in accommodating different riding speeds and skill levels, making the experience accessible even if you’re not an avid cyclist.

One of the highlights is the Somerset Bridge, the world’s smallest drawbridge, which your guide will tell you about during a short walk. It’s a quirky, charming piece of Bermuda’s infrastructure, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Continuing along the trail, you’ll enjoy spectacular seascapes and lush scenery that most travelers miss when sticking to the more heavily trafficked areas.

Exploring Forts and Historic Sites

If time permits, the tour includes optional hikes up to Fort Scaur or the Mott family estate. Many guests appreciate these stops for their historical significance and sweeping views. “Scaur Hill Fort views were amazing,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing the value of these scenic overlooks. The hike to Fort Scaur involves some uphill walking, but your guides provide historical context along the way, making it both a physical and educational exercise.

The Beach and Relaxation

After cycling and exploring, the tour concludes at a local beach, where you’re free to swim in the ocean and enjoy a complimentary soft drink. The beach stop is highly praised as the perfect way to unwind after a few hours of active sightseeing. As one guest remarked, “After your bike tour, cool off with a refreshing swim and soft drink,” highlighting how valuable this downtime is after the morning’s activity.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are favorable, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5. Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides who made the experience fun and informative. For instance, “Jamie and Lisa are awesome guides,” was a common compliment, along with praise for their friendly attitude and interesting facts.

Some reviews, however, point out that the trail can involve some off-road sections and walking, which might be a concern if you have mobility issues or prefer purely paved paths. One reviewer called it “less bicycle than I thought,” noting that a significant part of the experience involved walking bikes over uneven terrain. Others mentioned that the boat ride to the trailhead adds to the overall length and cost, but most recognized that this approach allows for access to more scenic and less crowded parts of the island.

Value for Money

Given the inclusion of bike equipment, guided commentary, and beach time, many consider the price of around $117 to be reasonable. When you factor in the opportunity to see parts of Bermuda that are often missed and the engaging nature of the guides, this experience offers good value. Several reviews highlighted how this tour is a great way to start your Bermuda visit, offering both scenic sights and historical insights.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This outing is well-suited for active travelers, families with children over age 10, and those interested in history and scenery. It’s ideal if you don’t mind some off-road riding and walking, and if you appreciate friendly guides who know the area well. Keep in mind the moderate physical effort involved, so those with mobility concerns or limited stamina may want to consider other options.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, but also want to learn about Bermuda’s past and see its natural beauty, this tour neatly combines both. It’s a solid choice for visitors looking for authentic experiences away from typical tourist spots, with the added bonus of a chance to cool off in the ocean at the end.

FAQ

How long is the bike ride?
The main cycling portion is about 6 miles (9.5 km), spread over roughly 45 minutes, but it includes some off-road and walking sections.

What’s included in the tour?
You get use of the bikes, helmets, bottled water, and guided commentary. The beach stop also includes a complimentary soft drink.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years old, and the rider must be at least 58 inches tall. Children should be comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly a towel for the beach. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for biking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Railway Trail Bike and Beach Tour in Bermuda offers a balanced look at the island’s lesser-explored sights, combining scenic cycling, historical stops, and beach relaxation. The presence of knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see unspoiled parts of Bermuda make it a worthwhile choice for those who enjoy active outings with educational value.

While not a purely leisure bike ride—there are some uneven sections—most guests find the experience manageable and rewarding. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, away from crowded beaches or typical tourist routes.

This tour provides great value for its price, especially considering the mix of activities, scenery, and learning. If you’re eager to spend a few hours exploring Bermuda’s natural beauty with friendly guidance, it’s a memorable way to connect with the island’s lesser-known stories and landscapes.