Gravel Grazer - Guest Information
Hello Gravel Grazers! We are excited to once again be collaborating with Pedals & Provisions CC on the Gravel Grazer retreat series.
Missing Link Adventure Tours and Santosha Farm are co-located and complimentary, and operated by your co-hosts, Rob Edmonstone and Julia Sutton. Your weekend of routes and riding will be curated by Rob and the roots and dining curated by Julia for the Santosha Farm meals and Sam of Pedals & Provisions for Sunday lunch.
Brought to you by:
Key To Do items:
Dietary info - Before August 7th - If you haven't already done so, or if there are any recent changes, please advise of any dietary restrictions or preferences ASAP.
Example: Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Vegan, other allergies, severity and, if severe, any additional health information you want us to know!
We are happy to accommodate your needs, we just need to know ahead of time.
Friday arrival and ride planning - Review the optional ride details for Friday and let us know your plans. A new option has been added for 2026. We provide the Friday evening meal, so your travel plans will inform Friday afternoon ride plans.
Review details and ask questions - Please review the details here and send us any questions so we can update this page!
Location and Contact
Event Dates: August 21-23, 2026
Location: Missing Link Adventure Tours (Google Maps), 805 Stisted Road North, Burk's Falls, ON
Contacts:
Rob's cell 705-783-7573
Julia's cell 705-783-5098
We recommend sending Rob a text with your arrival plans as this also get his number in your phone should you need to connect at any point over the weekend.
E-mail Rob at info@mlat.ca
Check In
Guests can check in anytime after 1PM on Friday and most typically head out for a ride if time allows (route options below). Lunch is not provided on Friday - our first meal together will be Friday dinner. As the date approaches, letting us know your travel and ride plans helps us assess and adjust timing to best suit the group.
Campers - head to the location provided above.
Seasonal 'House Rules'
We will provide an orientation for guests upon arrival - in addition, we are providing some key bits that help make for a smoother group experience.
1) Spray on products - You are welcome to use spray on products (e.g. sun screen / bug spray) but we ask that they only be applied outside in the parking lot to avoid getting oil and residue on the walls, linens and floor....(it's very hard to clean up and others might have scent allergies).
2) We ask that you remove outdoor footwear, including bike shoes, at the front entry. It can be tempting to sneak in a last min pre-ride bathroom break but we hope to avoid memories of your cleat types on our stairs. It also significantly aids in keeping the building clean over the course of a weekend.
3) Sinks - yeah, we have a lot of them in the kitchen. Meal prep is a busy time and we need to keep the prep area clear of bodies. A sink is provided for filling the kettle and rinsing bottles, glasses etc. just inside the kitchen closest to the living room. Empty glasses can be left on the table or counter in the kitchen. The coffee & tea bar and kettle are always available.
4) Snacks on the bike overnight on the porch (bike storage area) - we haven't had a problem yet, but we will remind guests to double check that snacks aren't left in bike bags etc. Sealed gels are likely fine, but a bag of trail mix might attract the wrong overnight crowd. We will provide the camping crew with some additional options for storing items inside overnight.
(Tip - the china plates in the rooms are provided as coasters :-))
Meals
The weekend will provide opportunities to try some local spots, Santosha Farm meals and Sam’s own creations.
About Santosha Farm meals: Our default menu is gluten free and maximizes seasonal veggies from our Farm while supporting the fueling needs of hungry cyclist. We feature a variety of proteins. Sometimes complete meals are vegetarian, other times not. If you have preferences, please let us know. Late August is a perfect time to highlight produce from the fields!
Breakfast - We typically aim for breakfast between 7:30-9:30 AM. We start the coffee train pretty early!
Lunches – when able, routes will include stops for some local eats. Participants are free to choose and purchase their own lunches on Friday and Saturday and there is an option for baked goods on Sunday. Sam will be providing a post-ride lunch on Sunday back at MLAT HQ.
Dinner -- We typically aim for dinner to be served between 6:30 and 7:00 PM
FRIDAY:
In previous editions, most folks arrived in time for an afternoon ride before dinner here. This year, we are providing new route options that include the Katrine Chip Truck. Why? Bulgogi Burger is why! The Katrine Chip Truck is the Chip-stand-Korean-Fusion experience you didn't know you needed. Don't ruin your supper, but you can try some good eats at the chip truck. Service is NOT fast - so you need to plan your ride and stop accordingly. More details in the route section below including alternate Friday routes not based around this food stop.
SATURDAY:
The Cornball Store – Spence, ON
The suggested lunch option on Saturday is café meets country store style and includes baked goods, sandwiches, ice cream, GF sorbet, caffeine and other drinks. This is a regular oasis for local riders out exploring the Old Nipissing Road! New owners acquired the store in Spring 2026 and we have already been in with some groups to check it out.
Note – cash and interact is preferred.
SUNDAY:
Sam is providing us with his own Pedals and Provisions CC creations on Sunday. Savour This in Burk's Falls is on the route (follow Andy K...he'll likely stop there...)
Routes and Riding Info
We have a selection of routes that will highlight some of the area's great riding, touch on the history of the region and feature some local attractions.
If you are not familiar and comfortable with using GPS navigation (phone, GPS unit, bike computer) please contact ahead of time. It is no critical for the weekend but helps to know each guests scenario for being out on route.
The weekend will feature three days of riding, to help us work up an appetite. You can self-organize into groups. Typically 2 groups form and naturally meet up at planned stops and follow the planned routes. But, this is your weekend - you are free to explore on your own. The key to successful riding in the area is riding at your own pace and having adequate snacks and hydration. The area is known for being hilly. There are certain spots we will aim to be at together and routes can be adjusted, within reason, to add or reduce distances.
Route detail may be updated in advance of our 2026 dates. We are working on highlighting our classic favourites while keeping things fresh for returning guests who have stayed with us multiple times and ONE who will be staying multiple times in August!
Saturday and Sunday approx ride start times between 9-10. Adjusted for group intention, weather and finalized route distances.
Draft routes - full schedule/itinerary TBC:
Friday:
Multiple routes arranged last year to support various arrival times. We rely on guests to gauge their pace and riding ability when selecting a route. We don't recommend heading out on a 50km route if arriving after 4PM. Rob can provide route options for almost any distance - just let us know your preference in advance (may not be available on Friday for custom route design).
NEW FOR 2026 - Katrine Chip Truck:
Requires a start time between 1-3PM. The intent is to feature a new spot without 'ruining' your welcome dinner back at the farm. As noted above, service at the chip truck is not fast and the routes get pretty lumpy over by Katrine. We have provided a route departing from here and another for driving over to Katrine before riding. You could head directly to Katrine and ride before checking in at our place if that works with your schedule.
Pro tip - DON'T BURN YOUR BISCUITS ON FRIDAY AND BE TOASTED FOR THE WEEKEND! There is no point in stressing about travel timing just for a burger or unique eat spot - enjoy a relaxed weekend including your trip to the area! This is just an option - no awards are given out for making it to the Chip Truck!
30km / 440m route - starting from Katrine (shorter) - requires driving to Katrine, riding and then stopping at the Chip Truck
55km / 950m route - from MLAT (full) - starts from MLAT and is twice as hilly as regional average.
Friday Regular - as used in previous getaways - no food stop - departing from our location.
Friday regular option - no food stop on route - 50km / 670m
Friday 30km - like around the block with extension to Harrison Lake Road
Saturday:
Nipissing Road 70km / 1000m (coffee stop at 6km / food stop at km 50)
Sunday:
Screaming Heads / Burk's Falls / Art Gallery
Additional riding details and recommendations:
- Guests are responsible for their safety while riding, adhering to the rules of the road, riding safely, dressing for the conditions, choosing an appropriate route and staying fuelled and hydrated.
- Government of Ontario Bicycle Safety Information
- We will provide Strava and RidewithGPS links and daily GPX files before the event. (Strava links above)
- Please let us know if you prefer printed copies of routes.
- The routes utilize municipal roads that are a mix of paved and gravel.
- The riding in the region is remote. Beyond the lunch stops, do not plan on being able to access supplies on route.
- Plan on carrying at least 2L of water (2 bottles). You can refill at the lunch stops.
- We recommend having tubes, tools and a pump.
- Pack your preferred riding snacks
- Pack any “body care” items you might need (e.g. sun screen)
- Pack seasonally appropriate clothing options for variable weather
- We will provide ample time to enjoy the routes.
- Ride at your own pace.
- The routes will NOT be signed.
- The routes will NOT have a fixed guide. We will be monitoring everyone out on route and emergency contact info will be provided.
- The routes are mainly loops, with relatively easy navigation. Guests should consider their navigation approach adhead of the weekend.
- If you have questions about modifications (longer/shorter) please reach out. We want to provide a rider appropriate challenge while working within logistical constraints.
- There are multiple beaches in the area, we recommend bringing a suit, flip flops and beach towel (we provide towels for accommodation but ask that you bring your own for the beach 🙂
Social time - things to do:
Folks typically relax on the porch or head to the beach but providing some options on off-bike things to do.
Swim Spots: (Bartlett) – our usual spot or (Big Doe)
The Workroom (fabric and sewing store in Sprucedale and our collab partner on Handmade Getaway retreats)
Screaming Heads (likely part of a route over the weekend)
Crystal Caves (likely NOT part of a route over the weekend)
Your Stay
The LINNK
In the guesthouse where you’ll be staying, the bedrooms and bathrooms are all upstairs. The bedrooms and bathrooms are shared, and everyone will have their own bed. The kitchen, dining and living area are on the main floor. We have a small and quirky book selection, along with some cards, puzzles and board games. The kitchen is where we make all of your meals, and where you are likely to find us during your stay.
We do have Wifi, but it is rural Wifi and can be unreliable. If there is anything you need access to online, we recommend downloading this before your arrival. If you have a critical need to check in let us know.
Building the guesthouse has been a labour of love, and we have built it using sustainable and non-toxic materials wherever possible. As you’ll see below, we provide eco friendly soap, shampoo and conditioner that is safe for our septic system. We ask that you consider leaving your usual bath products at home, as well as products with very strong scents so that those with scent allergies can also enjoy our space (Julia also has a scent allergy). We also ask that you don’t bring bottled water, as you can drink water from any tap in the guesthouse, which is tested on a regular basis.
If you’d like to enjoy an outdoor campfire or sit outside on the porch in the evening, you will want some warmer clothes. We also recommend bringing rubber boots/hikers if you want to go for a walk around the farm.
We look forward to sharing fresh produce with you!
what we provide:
-bed linens
-towels – shared bathmat and hand towel in the bathrooms, individual face cloth and bath towel
-coffee, tea – herbal and caffeinated
-shampoo, conditioner and body wash
-meals during your stay (starting Saturday AM)
recommended items to bring:
-slippers
-outdoor gear (appropriate clothes and boots that match the season)
-we have several types of tea, but if you have a favourite, please bring it
-a flashlight if you want to walk in the evening
-personal pillow if preferred
-beach towel and suit, beach shoes – please bring your own beach towel, we have you covered for towels back at our place (post ride swim options nearby)
Campers:
-BYOGear - Algonquin Outfitters in Huntsville has camping gear rentals if needed
-we have a dedicated outhouse for any overnight needs
-outdoor private shower (it is lovely!)
-camp spots are close to the main building
Bike and riding items:
-clothing for variable weather and three days of riding
- spare tubes and tools, repair kit
- your preferred on-bike snacks (bars, gels and powders)
- bottles
- chargers etc. (consider your shift lever batteries)
- helmet and shoes
- if disassembling your bike for transport, double check for thru-axles or quick release, seat posts, bags or batteries.
The regular things, but sometimes a list helps with packing!
We store bikes on the porch overnight.
Food items:
Own food? We have a small amount of fridge space for individual items like cottage cheese. If bringing an item that requires refrigeration to supplement a personal diet, please e-mail me with details. We keep the kitchen and fridge clear of gluten. There are seafood allergies noted within this group.
Please bring your regular on-bike nutrition & hydration (powers, gels, bars) – a packaged bar within your own gear is not an issue in terms of gluten.
We recommend at least two bottles.
Our kitchen and water is certified, inspected and tested by the local health unit. (No need to bring your own bottled water)
Details directions from Highway 11 (Google Maps link above):
The guesthouse is located at 805 Stisted Rd. If you put Missing Link Adventure Tours into Google Maps, it is fairly accurate (they put the location just north of where the actual driveway is).
-Take the #248 exit to Deer Lake Rd/Hwy 518 and turn left at the end of the off-ramp, onto the 518. The small town of Sprucedale is approximately 12km from the highway.
-Once you reach Sprucedale and you’ve passed the gas station, there will be a building on your left called the workroom. Stisted is immediately after that store, and you’ll turn right (north) onto Stisted.
-We are just over six kilometres up that road. You’ll go through residential, then forest and then out into a more open area. You’ll drive up a longer hill, and the driveway will be on your right part way down the hill on the other side. The 911 number at the end of the driveway is 805, and there is a sign for Missing Link Adventure Tours.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions at all.
Safe travels, and see you soon!
Julia & Rob from Santosha Farm & Missing Link Adventure Tours