Niagara Falls Hotel Changes Gears for GranFondo Bike Ride

ONTARIO, CANADA--(Marketwired - Jun 25, 2013) - Cycling is a solo venture, but there's something to be said about riding alongside friends with some beautiful scenery in the background. The GranFondo, modeled after Europe's mass-participation cycling events, aims to bring that experience to Canada, with the inaugural GranFondo Niagara Falls, sponsored by the Courtyard Niagara Falls.

This year's race, on September 14^th, follows the success of 2010's ride in Whistler. Thousands of cyclists will gather at the start/finish line at the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, just minutes from this hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario, to set off on the 125-kilometre route.

Once they pedal off near this Niagara Falls hotel, riders will travel along the world-renowned Niagara Parkway, through Niagara Wine Country, the region's picturesque countryside and the Niagara Escarpment, including the winding hills around the Short Hills Provincial Park. Whether along for the ride or not, the GranFondo's Rest Stops, located along the route, offer great views of the course as well as fine Niagara-area wines and cuisine.

The big ride might be the main reason for a visit to this Niagara Falls, Canada hotel, but September is the perfect time to visit the area. On the day of the GranFondo, the Niagara Wine Festival kicks off two weeks of fine wine and food, running through the 29^th. Visitors can explore Niagara-on-the-Lakes' more than 70 wineries, relax with a few rounds of golf, head outdoors on various hiking and biking trails along the Niagara Escarpment and Niagara Parkway and, of course, pay a visit to the famous falls.

About the Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls

At the Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls, the famous falls are just a ten-minute walk away, and everything guests need (from a good meal to a relaxing swim, is just steps from their room). Offering modern, stylish décor and comfortable accommodations, this Clifton Hill hotel is a great base for exploring the area, whether on a romantic honeymoon or toting the kids along for a family vacation. Accommodations offer complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access, cable TV, a desk, coffee/tea service and a minifridge. For families and groups of friends, a two-room suite at this hotel near Niagara Falls offers additional space. Want to spice things up? Try a fireplace or whirlpool suite. The flexible lobby offers a place for guests to work, relax, dine and mingle, and features lounge-like seating, free Wi-Fi, an interactive GoBoard offering the latest news and a 24/7 Market with snacks and beverages. For a full meal, try the family-friendly T.G.I Friday's or the grown-up Keg Steakhouse & Bar, serving wine, fine steaks and seafood. This Ontario hotel is the perfect setting for a celebration or meeting, and offers more than 1,200 square feet of event space. Shopping, biking and hiking are nearby, but this hotel offers two pools, a fitness centre and sauna. Go home a winner after a visit to neighbouring casinos.