Rancho Santa Fe stands on land once inhabited by the Kumeyaay people. During the Spanish colonial era, the area was controlled first by Spain and later by Mexico. In the early 1900s, the Santa Fe Railway, part of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, purchased the land grants that formed the region. The company planned to grow 3.5 million eucalyptus trees for railroad use, but the project failed. Today, it is a popular destination for Rancho Santa Fe bicycle tours.
Colonel Ed Fletcher (Fletcher’s Cove namesake) convinced the railroad that the area could be used for agricultural purposes and could get water by building what is now known as Lake Hodges Dam. Currently, Rancho Santa Fe is known for its large, gated communities, and expensive properties.
Why Rancho Santa Fe Bicycle Tours
Rancho Santa Fe, which is just inland from the Pacific Ocean, has a temperate climate, many punchy climbs, making the lightly trafficked rural roads the ideal place for riding a bike. The small downtown area has quaint stores, and a Cars and Coffee, which is wildly popular on the weekends. Luckily, there are a few other small commercial areas where one can find amazing pastries if you know where to look. San Diego Coffee Rides loves Rancho Santa Fe bicycle tours, and we know all of the good bike routes, so if you are looking for a San Diego guided bicycle ride, drop us a message.
Rancho Santa Fe Bicycle Loop
The most popular bike Rancho Santa Fe bicycle tours involve making loops on roads that ride past large estates. Not all of Rancho Santa Fe is locked behind security guarded gated communities, so you will have the opportunity to see the lush landscaping and manicured grounds that make Rancho Santa Fe so desirable. One of the most popular loops is called “Stud Loop.” A popular section that most local bike clubs ride where the entire section is sprinted for bragging rights.
What to Know About Rancho Santa Fe Bike Rides
Rancho Santa Fe is a popular cycling destination in north county San Diego. With easy access to the coast and more challenging areas to the east, consider it a must ride in area when visiting San Diego. On the weekend you will see group after group riding through the various neighborhoods. With large country estates, exotic cars on display, bicycle friendly roads, and of course a couple of good coffee opportunities, consider Ranch Santa Fe bicycle tours on your next trip.
A great starting out point is Cadence Cyclery in Encinitas. Every Saturday large groups start from this favorite bike shop, often including Rancho Santa Fe in their rides. As always, check us out on Instagram.