St. Augustine and the 27th Annual Tour de Forts Classic

St. Augustine is a historic old city dressed as a tourist town, its timeworn but stately downtown embellished with wonky museums, weird shops, and popular but plebeian tours. A spot perfect for spending some time by yourself or with family. (Something for everybody.)

Each year the North Florida Bicycle Club holds the Tour de Forts Classic. 2018 marks the 27th year for the event. It's a well organized event from top to bottom. The routes are excellent.

Our 70 mile route included all the best features of the area:

• The forts and historic St. Augustine;
• Lovely Anastasia Island with its lighthouse;
• The inland agricultural areas;
• A section of the area's terrific trail system; and
• The road along the river with its huge live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

With 800+ riders, there weren't the congestion problems that trouble the really big event rides. Police support was excellent.

There was something special at the last rest stop. People were hot and getting tired. And there it was: SNOW CONES! Total genius.

A view of St. Augustine and the Bridge of Lions from the base of the Castillo de San Marcos.

Riding in the agricultural section of the county.