We strongly recommend that you bring all-weather riding clothing. We like to anticipate sunny weather, but things can change quickly in the mountains. We ask guests to bring a daypack each day. You can use this to bring along water, some tools, snacks, etc. Most days we leave our lunch in the vehicles and eat on the way up the mountain or at the end of a trail on a lake. However, it is good idea to have a pack for longer rides.
A helmet (e.g. full-face), knee/shin/elbow guards, and gloves are highly recommended. You are welcome to wear a half-shell cross-country helmet but we do recommend the extra protection of a full-face helmet. Apart from good riding shoes and clothes for chilling in the Lodge, don’t forget your bathing suit for the lake and our 12-person hot tub.
For more information on what kind of bike to bring or renting a bike from the Lodge, click here.
Here is a sample packing list:
- Plane ticket
- Passport – if you’re crossing the Canadian border.
- Maps and Directions – see the Getting Here and Location Map sections on our website
- Personal Medications
- Personal Toiletries / Hair Dryer
- Shoes – Indoor and for riding
- Daypack
- Water Bottle
- Riding Clothing – we recommend that you dress in layers as you’ll be riding a wide range of elevations.
- Helmet / Shin Guards / Elbow Guards / Other Armour
- Bike
- Bike tools
- Extra brake pads
- Swimsuit – for the sauna and hot tub. Après ride clothing – the dress code at Retallack is casual so you can leave the penguin suit or tiara at home
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Guitars, banjos, mouth organs or other musical instruments of choice – we’re always up for a jam session.
- A positive attitude
What not to bring:
- Alcohol – by law all alcohol on the premises must be purchased under our liquor license. However, we have a well-stocked cellar of wines and serve a full selection of beers and spirits. And if you have any special requests, such as a specific bottle or wine or liquor, we are happy to accommodate wherever we can.
- First aid kits.
Retallack is accessible by car on well-maintained highways, so you don’t have to worry about baggage limitations on helicopters, boats, or other vehicles. Basically, you should pack as you would for any other riding holiday.