Here's your chance to ride the Natchez Trace and see the sites from the seat of a bicycle - if you're a girl, that is...
Linden Majestic tranquility and true Southern Hospitality. Linden has been in the same family since it was built.
Pleasant Hill Built in the 1830's, this bed and breakfast sports the finest sunroom and two floors of porches.
The Natchez Bicycle Club has been ongoing for several years now, and for the second year in a row they're offering "Belles on Bikes." It's a great way to see Natchez and the surrounding area, and the women of the club are a fun group who will be more than happy to show you around. If you didn't get it yet, this event is only for female cyclists.
The guys of the club will be providing support by manning the "SAGS" (I assume that's bike talk for "water stop") while the girls enjoy a great day of cycling.
The event begins at the MarketPlace Cafe on Main Street, Natchez. The cafe is a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. Large garage-door type walls allow for a real open air feel when the weather is right, and the classic red booths are super comfortable. They serve breakfast and lunch, with a good variety in both menus and plenty of the best coffee around.
There are four rides available, all varying in distance to allow for amateurs and experts alike. All the rides begin by cycling down to the bluff of the Mississippi River, then out to the Natchez Trace. You can follow the routes on NatchezMS.com's Map of Natchez.
The shortest route is an 18-mile jaunt to the historic site of the Elizabeth Female Academy. It's an easy ride on a newly created portion of the Natchez Trace originating at Liberty Road. You'll ride past a neighborhood of fine Victorian homes before sighting Monmouth, an antebellum mansion that is also one of the best Small Luxury Hotels in America.
The 30-mile trip takes you along the Trace to Emerald Mound, a ceremonial mound left by the Natchez Indians.
Church Hill Loop takes on a 50-mile trek through an old community just off the Trace, where you'll see beautiful countryside, antebellum homes, and the historic Christ Church and cemetery.
Finally, you can take a 62.5 mile journey that includes the Church Hill loop and a turn through the nearby Natchez State Park.
If you register by April 18, the price is only $35. After that it's $40 - still not a bad price for such an excellent event. Sign up by going the the club's site, NatchezBike.Org. The site will also tell you about the great extras you get for registering, and will keep you abreast of other club events.
By the way, it's ok if you want to bring your guy along. There will be an optional bike tour of downtown Natchez Saturday afternoon and men are invited to ride along. And while you're riding the Trace they can take advantage of some great area golf, see some of our historic attractions, or just hang out in one of the many restaurants in downtown Natchez You know, guys will find something to do.
Interested in more of an "Extended Stay?" These accommodations cater to visitors and business people who wish to spend longer periods of time in Natchez.
Retriever's Rest A comfy cottage with a countryside view that's actually just blocks from downtown
Natchez!
Pleasant Hill, an historic home built in the 1830's, this bed and breakfast sports the finest sunroom and two floors of porches. Just two blocks from the center of Downtown Natchez.
Cypress Shore A large and beautifully appointed 2-story retreat home, right on Lake St. John. 3 bedrooms with king size beds, multi-faceted pier, large full kitchen, and lots more! 3014 Hwy 569, Ferriday, LA.