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Australia’s top 50 bike riding experiences

From the tropical beaches of far north Queensland to the arid Nullarbor Plain, we searched the nation to discover the best bike experiences Australia has to offer.

Australia is a vast and diverse nation offering myriad opportunities for riders of all disciplines and abilities, and we have endeavoured to include something in our list for everyone: challenging alpine road rides, laid-back beachside trundles, epic multi-day tours, seriously muddy mountain bike adventures and everything in between.

From a long list of hundreds, we narrowed the field to arrive at a varied mix of riding experiences in each state and territory. They are numbered so as to be identifiable on the maps, but they are not ranked.

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Australian Capital Territory

1. A Dawn Chorus

The birdlife in Canberra and its surrounds is richer than that found in any other Australian capital city. This 22km route passes through the city’s hotspots for birdlife. It begins on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin at Black Mountain Peninsula, rides past the zoo, through Aranda bushland and Bruce Ridge Reserve and back to the lake via Black Mountain. It is best ridden at dawn to the accompaniment of an avian choir.

More info:   www.bike-it.com.au

2. Canberra art and architecture by bike

A specific route was published in Bruce Ashley’s book Cycling Around Canberra – and is an ideal way for families and visitors to get a taste of Canberra’s culture, taking in some of the city’s key architectural features, galleries and museums. Although less than 23km in length, the route’s wealth of landmarks offers days of exploration.

See a version of the ride here:   www.boy-on-a-bike.com

3. Stromlo Forest Park

Host of the 2009 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, and showcasing a world-class downhill track and double black diamond runs as well as a multitude of easier tracks, Stromlo Forest Park is the place for mountain biking in the nation’s capital.

More info:   www.stromloforestpark.com.au/mtb

New South Wales

4. byron bay and hinterland.

There’s great riding to be had where one of Australia’s most famous stretches of coast meets the mountains. Wait for low tide and ride along the beach from Broken Head to Cape Byron, the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, tour the off-road bike paths in Byron Bay, or, if you’re keen for a challenge, discover secluded rainforest mountain passes.

More info:   www.byron-bay.com

5. Narrow Neck and Hanging Rock (Blackheath), Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains offers spectacular fire trails, such as those at Narrow Neck and Hanging Rock, Blackheath. Aside from a few steep climbs and water bars, they are not technically difficult and the views off the plateau are truly spectacular.

More info:   bit.ly/W9VHxC

6. Sydney Harbour Bridge

What could be a more quintessential Aussie bike experience than riding over the Sydney Harbour Bridge? The iconic landmark has a dedicated bike path which is used by more than 1,600 commuters on weekdays, making it the busiest link in the Metro Sydney Bike Network. It also offers spectacular harbour views and is a must-do experience for visitors to the city.

More info:   www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

7. Sydney to Wollongong (The MS Gong Ride)

A scenic 90km ride from Sydney to Wollongong via the Royal National Park and the breathtaking Sea Cliff Bridge, The MS Gong ride is one of Australia’s most celebrated mass participation bike events. The event attracts around 10,000 riders each year and raises money for MS Australia.

More info:   www.msgongride.org.au

While traditionally known for its ski runs, from November to May Thredbo is also home to some of Australia’s best mountain biking. There are easy and intermediate trails close to the village, while thrill seekers can take the Kosciuszko Express chairlift to the top of the mountain and experience the Kosciuszko Flow Track and the legendary Thredbo Downhill Trail.

More info:   www.thredbo.com.au/activities/biking

Northern Territory

9. simpson’s gap bicycle path.

Discover central Australia by bike on this 17km off-road path that travels from Flynn’s Grave, 7km out of Alice Springs, to Simpson’s Gap – a spectacular waterhole on the edge of the MacDonnell Ranges. The path winds through a wild landscape of river red gum woodlands, mulga and witchetty bush groves and past exposed rocky hillsides. The trailhead is also located near the Alice Springs Desert Park, and both are accessible via an off-road bike path from Alice Springs.

More info:   www.australias.guide

10. The Great Outback Escape

The pilgrimage to Uluru and Kata Tjuta is a unique and special journey that is up there on a lot of Australian’s bucket lists… and best done by bike.

In 2019 the Great Outback Escape took 125 people to central Australia for a life changing experience. Over eight incredible days, riders experienced the desert wind, the changing colours of sacred landscapes and the red dirt under their tyres. 

More info:   www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/great-outback-escape

11. Border Ranges ramble

Roadies up for a challenging ride through mountainous rainforest will enjoy this hilly 120km loop beginning in the small town of Rathdowney, 95km south of Brisbane. The route explores the Border Ranges, following Lions Road into New South Wales and continuing down to Grady’s Creek. It then heads north-west past Grevillia and Dairy Flat to travel through the Unumgar, Donaldson and Mount Lindesay State Forests before climbing past Mount Lindesay and descending back to Rathdowney via the Mount Lindesay Highway.

More info:   www.ridewithgps.com

12. Brisbane to the Gold Coast Cycle Challenge

An iconic on-road adventure, the Brisbane to the Gold Coast Cycle Challenge is Queensland’s largest mass participation event. Riders can choose either 100km or 60km ride options. The full 100km route leaves from Brisbane’s South Bank and rolls along the Pacific Motorway to Broadwater Parklands in Southport. The ride also has exclusive use of the South East Busway, and riders can celebrate their achievement at a special post-ride festival featuring live music and entertainment.

More info:   b2gc.bq.org.au

One of Australia’s most sought-after holiday locations, Cairns offers something for riders of all disciplines and abilities. Families and leisurely holiday makers can explore a scenic network of off-road paths taking in the Esplanade lagoon, the Cairns Botanic Garden, Cairns Central Swamp and other scenic waterways, while keen roadies can head out to the rainforest or take part in the region’s many road events. Cairns is also home to the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park which features cross country, downhill and mountain X trails for riders of all abilities.

More info:   www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore

14. The Big Beach Ride

Queensland’s newest bike ride is a massive celebration of riding with a number of different distances to enjoy the magical scenery the Sunshine Coast. Starting near Noosa Heads and travelling along the coast, around Maroochydore and finishig in Caloundra, where everyone gathers to celebrate.

More info:   www.tbbr.com.au

15. Daintree and Cape York

Discover a tropical paradise of white sandy beaches, majestic waterfalls and lush rainforests. Those who enjoy a long day in the saddle can use Port Douglas as a base and ride to Cairns, Cooktown and Cape Tribulation, or take an epic tour up to Cape York. There are several  tour companies operating in the region offering everything from fully supported rides to rough and muddy mountain bike adventures.

More info:   bit.ly/UyUDVx

16. Mt Coot-tha Forest

Located just 5km from Brisbane, Mt Coot-tha Forest, with its waterfalls, creeks and spectacular city vistas, caters to all types of riders with 31km of shared use paths and 12.1km of mountain bike trails winding through 1,600 hectares of eucalyptus forest. Keen roadies can attack the mountain by taking on Bicycle Queensland’s annual Coot-tha Challenge .

More info:  www.brisbane.qld.gov.au  

17. Mt Joyce Recreation Park

Located an hour south-west of Brisbane, Mt Joyce Recreation Park offers some 40km of multi-use trails for horses, bushwalkers and mountain bikers, including 25km of International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) standard singletrack. The trails cater for cross country, all mountain, downhill and four-cross riders of all levels of experience, with green right through to double black diamond runs, although this last is reserved for event use only. The park also features camping, picnic and watersports facilities, making it a perfect location for an active weekend getaway.

More info:   www.trailforks.com  

18. Robbie’s Gran Fondo

Aussie cycling legend Robbie McEwen brings an annual taste of the big European tours to Queensland, exploring the Gold Coast hinterland. The 102km loop leaves from Emerald Lakes at Carrara, and riders are joined by members of the Orica GreenEDGE pro cycling team as they take on epic climbs up Mt Tamborine and the back side of Beechmont to soak up the dazzling views at the top.

More info:   www.robbiesgranfondo.com

South Australia

19. Adelaide Hills region

From challenging world-class mountain biking to family-friendly cycle trails, travelling on two wheels is a great way to enjoy the varied landscapes of the Adelaide Hills.

For keen climbers, the Adelaide Hills offers challenging ascents, in particular the popular route from the tollgate, past Eagle On the Hill, through Crafers to the Mount Lofty summit. From the tollgate, riders can travel on a separate paved veloway beside the South- Eastern Freeway, to the quiet Mount Barker Road with its breathtaking vistas stretching to the coast. There’s also the renowned Eagle Mountain Bike Park and the Amy Gillett Bikeway, formerly the Adelaide Hills Rail Trail, to explore.

More info:   www.adelaidehillsrailtrail.org.au

20. Encounter Bikeway

Located just over an hour’s drive from Adelaide, the adjoining coastal towns of Goolwa, Middleton, Port Elliot and Victor Harbor are favoured weekend getaways. The Encounter Bikeway is a mixed on-and-off-road route linking the towns. Winding through quiet back streets and along the stunning foreshore with views of the Bluff, Granite Island, Horseshoe Bay and the Lower Murray River, the 30km route makes for a relaxing, scenic ride suitable for the whole family.

More info:   encountervictorharbor.com.au

21. Kangaroo Island

Accessible by ferry from Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Kangaroo Island is a popular but relatively remote holiday hotspot. Its untouched bushland teems with native wildlife, while its coast is home to some of Australia’s most pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for the keen and experienced tourer. The island boasts 509km of coastline and is 155km from the East Coast to the West Coast, perfect for exploring by bike.

More info:   tourkangarooisland.com.au

22. Outback Odyssey

Organised by Bicycle South Australia, this epic 900km adventure ride tackles the iconic Mawson Trail, which stretches from Adelaide to Blinman in the Flinders Ranges. Over fourteen days the ride passes through some of Australia’s most sublime and unique landscape, from the rolling vineyards of the Barossa to vast outback teeming with native flora and fauna.

More info:  www.bikesa.asn.au/outbackodyssey

24. Riesling Trail

One of South Australia’s first rail trails, the Riesling Trail follows the old Riverton to Spalding railway line between the historic towns of Auburn and Clare and explores the lush Clare Valley wine region, with cellar doors conveniently dotted along the trail. The total route extends 36km, with bikes available for hire in Clare.

More info:  http://www.southaustraliantrails.com/

25. Santos Tour Down Under

Adelaide’s Tour Down Under makes the list not as a single ride, but a must-do bike trip. TDU is the biggest professional cycling race in Australia and the opening event of the UCI WorldTour, and when it’s on, Adelaide is taken over by people on bikes. You can head out for daily rides and tackle some of the above routes, or visit stages of the race to see your favourite cyclists hit it out. You’ll be one of thousands of other riders doing the same. There are also official challenge and family rides that you can enter, but the pinnacle of the event is the pilgrimage to Willunga Hill. Ride out to Willunga, get a prime viewing spot and watch the peloton tackle the climb.

More info:  www.tourdownunder.com.au

26. Bay of Fires

Accessible via a partially sealed road from St Helens, the Bay of Fires is one of Australia’s hidden coastal gems. Fiery red lichen clings to the rocky shoreline and from a distance it appears the beach is literally ablaze, striking a sharp contrast to the turquoise waters more commonly associated with far-North Queensland. A day trip from St Helens is roughly 100km return.

More info:   www.parks.tas.gov.au

27. Devonport to Penguin

Split between off-road cycle ways and sleepy coastal roads, the route largely travels along the Bass Straight coastline past Mersey Bluff to the banks of the Don River through tea tree and wetlands before heading inland to climb through lush pastures and finally returning to the coast. The route from Devonport to Penguin is one of Tasmania’s most scenic rides and makes for a relaxing holiday trundle.

More info:   ridewithgps.com

28. Deloraine Great Gourmet Ride

An easy pedal through the lush valleys and farmlands west of Deloraine full of opportunities to stop and sample the local produce in one of Australia’s most hailed gourmet regions.

More info:   www.greatwesterntiers.net.au/cycling

29. Giro Tasmania

Compact and diverse, Tasmania is an ideal destination for bike tourists and boasts everything from dazzling coastline to rugged mountains, wild rivers, rain forests and historic villages. The Giro Tasmania explores the island’s highlights, takes approximately three weeks to ride and uses mostly sealed roads.

More info:   www.biketas.org.au

30. Hobart to MONA

Discover Tasmania’s artistic side by bike. Visitors to Hobart can borrow an ‘art bike’ from Arts Tasmania to explore the city or cruise the 12km scenic off-road path along the banks of the Derwent River to MONA, arguably the country’s most bizarre art gallery. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the gallery lawns and a refreshing ale from the neighbouring Moo Brew, or indulge your sweet tooth with a detour via the Cadbury factory on the return trip to Hobart.

31. Maria Island

Only accessible by boat or plane, Maria Island is a virtually untouched sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, with stunning beaches, weathered rocky outcrops, open grasslands and hilly peaks offering majestic sea views. Mountain bikes are available for hire, though accommodation and water supplies are limited and there is no electricity on the island. An ideal rustic retreat for tourers keen to get away from it all.

32. The Tasmanian Trail

The Tasmanian Trail is a 480km multi-use trail that offers a rugged, cultural and nature-based experience for keen bike riders. It often passes through or close to small towns, allowing travellers to visit local attractions while using as little or as much as they like and to take advantage of local accommodation, hospitality and specialist services. The official route runs north to south of the island, from Devonport to Dover, but you can jump on jump off as you please.

More info:  www.tasmaniantrail.com.au

33. Wellington Park

Located just out of Hobart, and home to the imposing Mount Wellington, Wellington Park offers challenging on and off-road adventures for roadies and mountain bikers. The former can take on the challenge of the mountain, while the latter have Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park, linked to popular picnic and meeting spot The Springs by the North-South Track, a 10.5km cross country track within the park.

More info:  www.wellingtonpark.org.au

*Yes, we know about the world-class and award-winning Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails that have popped up in Tassie’s north-east since this list was created back in 2013. Derby will be first on our list of updates! Let us know what else you think should make the new list.

34. United Energy Around the Bay

Australia’s largest one-day mass-participation ride has been running for over 25 years, raising money for the Smith Family and attracting riders from all over the country. The full 300km challenge route circles Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay with its stunning coastal vistas and includes taking the Ferry between Queenscliff and Sorrento. Over the years the event has added a number of shorter routes that incorporate major landmarks like crossing the Westgate Bridge, ensuring that there’s an option for all ages and abilities, and a big party in Albert Park at the end.

More info:   www.aroundthebay.com.au

35. Bright alpine region

The rich and varied rides in and around the Bright alpine region make it one of Victoria’s most popular destinations for keen riders of all disciplines. For roadies it offers some of Australia’s most challenging climbs and alpine events, including Peaks Challenge Falls Creek and the Alpine Classic , while mountain bikers eagerly await the snow to clear to ride the thrill seeker’s trails at Falls Creek and Mt Beauty. Tourers more keen on taking in the region’s scenery and gourmet delights will enjoy the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail and Pedal to Produce ride.

More info:  www.ridehighcountry.com.au

36. Forrest MTB Trails

Some of Australia’s best mountain biking finds its home at Forrest, a small town in the spectacular Otway Ranges. There are currently fifteen trails open in the region, with bike hire available from the Forrest Corner Store. Those keen to explore beyond the trails can take a guided mountain bike tour.

More info:   www.rideforrest.com.au

37. Gippsland Region

Rich in rail trails and small historic townships, the lush farmlands of Gippsland in Victoria’s south-east make for idyllic touring country. Of particular note are the East Gippsland Rail Trail and the Great Southern Rail Trail, though there are also many shorter trails that make for good part-day side trips.

More info:   www.visitvictoria.com

38. The Great Victorian Rail Trail

Travelling 134km between Mansfield and Tallarook through north east Victoria, the Great Victorian Rail Trail is Australia’s longest continuous rail trail. It winds along the banks of the Goulburn River, through rich farmland and into the high country foothills, with many towns along the way where riders can rest and join or leave the trail.

More info:   www.greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au

39. The Great Ocean Road

A truly iconic ride, the 243km Great Ocean Road, which stretches between Torquay and Warrnambool, climbs through the Otway Ranges and descends to take in some of Australia’s most spectacular coastline. Several major bike events explore the road or you can freestyle it comfortably. In 2019, the Great Victorian Bike Ride incorporated the entire Great Ocean Road as part of an epic 10 day riding and camping adventure. 

40. The Great Victorian Bike Ride

Exploring a different, iconic region of Victoria (and neighbours) each year, the week-long fully supported Great Victorian Bike Ride is the state’s biggest and one of Australia’s favourite organised bike tours. In 2020 we’ll visit Australia’s greatest outdoor art gallery, the Art Silos, and the majestic Grampians. 

More info:   www.greatvic.com.au

41. The Goldfields Track

The Goldfields Track is a point-to-point 210km Track that takes mountain bikers and bushwalkers through some of central Victoria’s most historic towns and beautiful forests. It includes singletrack, quiet country lanes and forest fire trails. It’s most suitable for mountain bikes, though parts of it can be ridden on a gravel/CX bike. As well as the beautiful scenery, the trail is a history buff’s delight, passing many ruins, old gold diggings, and towns that were transformed by the world’s greatest gold rush.

More info:   www.goldfieldstrack.com.au

42. Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

Travelling 39km through Yarra Valley vineyards, farmland and forest with mountains rising beyond, the ‘Warby’ trail has been described as “one of the great railway journeys of the world – minus the train” and is suitable for riders of all ages and abilities.

More info:   www.railtrails.org.au

43. Main Yarra Trail

A 33km shared use path from Melbourne’s outer-eastern suburbs to the CBD, the Main Yarra Trail is one of the city’s most popular walking and bike riding trails and makes for a great family adventure, winding through dense Eucalypts and past quiet billabongs on the banks of the Yarra River.

More info: www.visitmelbourne.com

44. Mt Buller MTB Park

Biking with altitude. Mt Buller was the first destination in Australia to receive huge honour of becoming an IMBA Ride Centre (bronze level). Its downhill trails are exhilarating thrill rides, while its cross country trails take in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Riders of all abilities are guaranteed to improve their skills while having a wild time on the mountain.

More info:  www.mtbuller.com.au

45. You Yangs

The You Yangs have over 50km of sustainable mountain bike trails divided into two separate areas. The Stockyards, ideal for experienced riders, boasts two downhill tracks, flowing single track and steep technical sections through rocky terrain, while the Kurrajong Plantation offers a more relaxed option for new riders, with 20km of looped tracks winding through established Eucalypt plantations. In recent years the Gravel Grit series has led adventurous riders on a popular off-road adventure around the region.

More info: www.parks.vic.gov.au

Western Australia

46. Dams Challenge

Western Australia’s most epic road event is a 205km loop with 2,600m of vertical climbing around Perth’s five metropolitan dams. Participants have a set amount of time to complete the fully-supported challenge. Riders can also chose the he 134km 3 Dams Challenge or the 54km 2 Dams Challenge. This popular event is a rite of passage for Western Australian riders and a bucket list item for many other riders around the country.

More info: westcycle.org.au

47. Railway Reserves Heritage Trail

The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail follows the route of the old Eastern Railway in a 41 kilometre loop. The popular trail passes through quaint hills communities including Darlington, Parkerville and Mundaring, and covers a wide range of terrains with amazing views and points of historic and natural significance. The trail spans from Bellevue to Wooroloo in the Perth Hills and can be joined at numerous points. Many of the reserves are now community parks providing picnic tables, toilets and other facilities. 

More info:   www.bwa.org.au/events/609

48. Kep Track

                       .

This 75km trail connecting the hills outside of Perth to the Avon Valley follows a route used by Aboriginal groups, gold prospectors timber workers and farmers between watering holes, such as the Mundaring Weir, Chidlow Wells and the Avon River. The track is best explored at a slower pace, allowing time to soak up its rich history and take advantage of the many photo opportunities en route.

More info:  www.trailswa.com.au

49. Munda Biddi Trai

Stretching 1,000km between Mundaring (near Perth) and Manjimup, the Munda Biddi Trail truly is one of Australia’s most epic and diverse riding experiences. The trail is rich in Aboriginal history and offers a completely unique experience with each day’s riding, winding through towering Eucalypt forests, wide expanses of untouched bushland and rich wine country.

More info:  www.mundabiddi.org.au

50. Rottnest Island

Accessible by ferry, plane or boat, Rottnest Island is an A-class nature reserve famous for its unspoiled, sandy beaches and abundance of wild and marine life. With cars prohibited, bikes are the ideal vehicle for exploring the island and there are plenty available for hire.

More info:  www.rottnestisland.com

Please get in touch to let us know the latest and greatest riding spots around the country.

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Bicycle Tours & Trips in Australia

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Tour de Tasmania

Tour de grand gourmet, hobart, tasmania ~ st. patricks day ~ guided *road cycle*, cycle south australia's wine regions, tour de south australia vineyards - guided small group 6n/8d, tour de south australia vineyards - self guided 5n/7d, tour de murray to mountains rail trail - group weekend, tour de clare valley - self guided 2n/2d, tour de bright - cycling tour beechworth to bright, tour de nsw south coast.

• Sightseeing
• Hike in Freycinet with a scenic water taxi return
• Taste wines in Coal River Valley, ride to Hobart
• Roll down to Triabunna, explore historic sites

• Christmas & New Year
• Taste wines in Milawa and enjoy a luxury stay
• Cycle the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail
• Relax with full breakfasts and gourmet dinners

“Tasmania was so beautiful at that time of year & to explore so much of it was such a great, fun experience.”

• Cycle through Tasmania's lush landscapes
• Enjoy local cheeses and scenic waterfalls
• Kayak in the crystal waters of Freycinet

“The bike trails, wine tastings and food stops are all well thought out. We visited some unique quirky locations that only locals would know about.” Monika Martens, traveled in September 2023

• Wine tasting
• Relax on the sandy beaches of Glenelg
• Enjoy wine tasting at Wirra Wirra Winery
• Cycle through the scenic Barossa Valley

• Road Cycling
• Cycling the Barossa Trail, the Riesling Rail Trail, the Amy Gillet trail and the Shiraz Trail all in one trip!
• 2 nights in fascinating Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills
• 2 nights in the gorgeous Mayfair Hotel in Adelaide (start and end of cycling)

• Self-Guided Cycling
• Discover new wineries cycling to Auburn
• Ride the Riesling Rail Trail with lunch
• Taste wine and chocolate on Amy Gillet trail

“Was well organised with great accomdation, meals and support.” Russell Becker, traveled in May 2024

• Choose from hybrid or e-bikes for your journey
• Explore quiet country back roads by bike
• Enjoy a perfect ride for both new and occasional riders

• Dine at the historic Rising Sun Hotel
• Taste wines at Clare Valley's best wineries
• Enjoy gourmet lunches at Skillogalee

• Enjoy lunch with views at Gapsted Winery
• Relax with dinner in vibrant Bright
• Cycle through scenic trails to Pennyweight Winery

• Enjoy lunch by Lake Illawarra's shore
• Explore Nan Tien, the largest Buddhist temple
• Stay at Windang Beach with lake views

More about Australia

Discover TourRadar

10 of the best Cycling tours in Australia

09 October 2020

The humble bicycle meets rolling countryside… hop on for one of these luxury cycle tours through some of the finest scenery and fecund food baskets in all of Australia.

1. gourmet cycling for softies, victorian high country.

If you’re inspired by our experience, the aptly named ‘gourmet cycling for softies’ just might also appeal. This five-day fully guided tour through Victoria’s High Country will have you pedalling from Milawa to Myrtleford, indulging in fine produce along the way. $1950 per person, twin-share including breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

It’s all about the cycling (and the gourmet pit stops) – on the Murray to Milawa Rail Trail.

2. Discover Tasmania

From white sandy beaches to rugged mountains, Tasmania has the full package when it comes to natural wilderness. Check out Discover Tasmania to learn more about some of the epic tracks available, including Wild West MTB Tours, which see you crossing a very slim suspended bridge. Eek!

Wild West MTB Bike Trails, Tasmania

3. Be-spoke Hunter Valley

This two-day tour around NSW’s popular winemaking region will get you from vineyard to vineyard with relative ease. With a support vehicle for back-up, this is a great way to experience the Hunter while sampling some of its fine produce and wine. The Hunter Valley Cycling tour starts from $245 per person, twin-share, mid-week.

4. In your bike in Noosa & the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Bike On offers a range of tours around the Sunshine Coast for riders of all levels, from self-guided tours to more intense road-riding weekends. Start simple with a self-guided trip around Noosa from $35 per person or challenge yourself to the seven-night Noosa road-riding holiday from $1620 per person.

5. All trails lead to the Great Ocean Road

More commonly explored by four wheels, the spectacular scenic views of Victoria’s southern coastline could arguably be better savoured on two. Check out the Twelve (now eight) Apostles, Port Campbell and Lorne on the way down to Queenscliff on a three-day tour, before catching the ferry across to Sorrento to join in the annual Bupa Around The Bay In A Day cycling event. Full tour costs $1695 per person, twin-share and includes all meals and entry into the Bupa event. Visit All Trails for more info.

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

6. Self ride around the NSW South Coast

Pedal with your family at your own pace on a self-guided ride along the NSW South Coast with Australian Cycling Holidays . Catering to all riding abilities, all you have to do is choose the destinations, like Jervis Bay, Shoalhaven and Kiama, and accommodation (budget or luxury). A three-day, Jervis Bay return tour starts from $665 per person.

7. Clare Valley Riesling Trail

Pedal and quaff your way around one of Australia’s best-known wine regions, enjoying the view of rolling vineyards, the signature grape variety riesling, and some mighty fine local produce too. And don’t worry about the wobbly ride home – if you have one too many wines, there’s a support vehicle on hand. Full-day tours start from $675 per person from Taste SA and include all meals and wine tasting.

The Clare Valley Riesling Trail, Taste SA

8. Mudgee’s Tour de Vine

Ride all the way to the cellar door visiting Mudgee’s top winemakers and breweries too. This one-day, self-guided tour by Tour de Vines is a great way to indulge in the region’s bounty of wine and produce. (If you need some more convincing, see p94). Prices start from $249 per person, twin-share, including bike hire, two nights’ accommodation and daily breakfast.

9. Bike Byron Bay

Cruise the coast or head for the hinterland around Byron Bay on your treadly, taking in beautiful scenery and stopping to enjoy organic produce at Harvest Café. The four-day coastal cycle rides from Ballina to Kingscliff; or take an extra day to explore the hills around Uki at the foot of Mt Warning. Five-night Cycling Tours coastal tour $1795, twin-share. Six-night hinterland village tour $1995, twin-share.

10. East Coast Tasmania

Make your way down the magnificent east coast of Tasmania from Launceston to Hobart on the five-day pure Tasmania experience, which includes a sunset ride to the Bay of Fires, the stunning Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay, Mt Wellington and the heritage-listed Port Arthur. Cycling Tours prices start from $2495 per person, twin-share.

Coastal grasses adorn the path that leads you to the remarkable shoreline of the Bay of Fires

Come with us on a gourmet cycle through the Victorian High Country

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Cycling Australia

• Geelong and the Surf Coast

Over the space of a few short years, cycling in Australia has massively risen in prominence. While Australia may have had cyclists at the Tour de France since 1914, it’s the work of road cycling legends like Cadel Evans, Richie Porte and Caleb Ewan that have really thrust the nation into the cycling spotlight.

If you’re thinking of a spot of cycling in Australia and are planning a trip, you’re probably wondering where to start. Australia is a vast country, with massive drive/fly times between cities, so knowing the best destination for you can be tricky.

Here are a few starting suggestions:

• Melbourne  – famous for coffee but also classic rides like the Beach Road and Arthur’s Seat. 
• Ballarat, near Melbourne, has been host to the Australian Road National Championships more times than any other place in Australia. You might also like our article on cycling nearby Geelong (home to the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race), where to cycle in the state of Victoria and guide to Peaks Challenge Falls Creek . There are some great cycling locations that aren’t Melbourne.
• Adelaide  – this is the base for the Tour Down Under, the first race of the World Tour season. You can reach the Adelaide Hills within 30 minutes ride time from the city.  
• Tasmania – home to Richie Porte as well as rainforests, beautiful bays and some great climbs.

We hope to bring you guides to Adelaide and Tasmania soon!

Finally, our guide to cycling in/around Sydney might come in handy. Since there are so many international flights to Sydney, we hope it will help any of you keen cyclists heading there.

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Australia Cycling Tours

Home » Destinations » Australia

The best of Australia by bike

Tasmania Wild West Coast

The West Coast is very scenic, hilly, sparsely populated and has wonderfully quiet roads. From Launceston we head inland to Cradle Mountain where we overnight at a wilderness lodge.

Tasmania East Coast Explorer

Tasmania is the smallest and only island state in Australia. It is wonderful biking country with fabulous beaches and magnificent mountains. Our 8 day tour takes

Tasmania: The Island State

Freycinet National Park, Launceston and Strahan on the West Coast. We closely follow the east coast until close to Launceston and then turn inland to

Victoria: Highlands to the Sea

Victoria (pop 5.6 million), Australia’s smallest mainland state, has a wonderfully diverse range of natural attractions in its relatively small size. It has an amazing

Victorian Alps

Melbourne dates from 1835 and was built on the wealth of the gold rush; it is a very cycle friendly city with an excellent network

Victorian Goldfields

Our tour starts in Bendigo, once one of Austria’s richest goldmining towns. It still retains much extravagant Victorian architecture. We head west on a network

CYCLING TOURS

Highlights of our australia cycling tours.

These highlights are many and varied, ranging from friendly, experienced guides to overnight stays at comfortable and luxurious accommodations. Our Australia cycling tours are also impressive in their itineraries, which take in such exciting attractions as:

• Cradle Mountain: This is one of Tasmania’s highest mountains, and presents a challenging but rewarding climb for walkers. The site is also near Australia’s deepest lake, Lake St Clair. 
• Hobart: Today, Hobart is Tasmania’s capital, but also has a fascinating history. The city was founded by the British as a penal colony in 1804 and still has convict-era architecture. Meanwhile, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) occupies a winery in the city’s Berriedale suburb.
• Freycinet National Park: Taking up much of the Freycinet Peninsula, this haven of natural beauty is known for visually distinctive features — including granite formations and peaks. 
• Mount Buffalo: If you are looking for dramatic scenery, you could struggle to find anything in Australia that beats Mount Buffalo — a part of the southeastern state of Victoria — on this score. 
• Grampians National Park: Fancy checking out some rock art left by Australian Aborigines? The Grampians, as this Victoria National Park is often dubbed, would certainly warrant your attention. 
• Melbourne: This cosmopolitan hub proudly takes its place among Australia’s most populous cities, and is home to many nationally renowned landmarks — including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Royal Exhibition Building and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).

We have prepared informative answers to FAQs about our Australia cycling tours — and, on any of these trips you do book, your guide will be happy to answer questions about Aussie landmarks you see along the route.

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Best Cycling Trips in Australia

Australia is slowly but surely developing some wonderful places and trails ideal for cycling trips.

Whilst cycling on highways and busy roads isn’t our idea of a cycling trip, there are growing number of bike friendly options developing across Australia.

Here’s our pick of the best cycling trips in Australia .

1. Murray to Mountains Rail Trail

The paved Murray to Mountains rail trail combines all the elements to make for a wonderful cycling trip.  Positioned in the scenic north east Victoria Alpine Region, this rail trail weaves its way from town to town, passing vineyards, cheese making factories, berry farms and artisanal produce outlets and is achievable for even beginner cyclists and families.  Choose from a day tour from Beechworth downhill to Milawa, try and social group weekend trip with a local guide, or do an extended 6 night tour from Rutherglen to Bright .  Accommodation from camping to luxury is readily available, as well as bike hire and shuttle services.  Start and finish with mountain bike trails in Beechworth and Bright.  The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail makes for Australia’s best cycling based trip.

Murray to Mountains Rail Trail in north east Victoria

2. Cycling Anywhere in South Australia

A cycling trip anywhere in South Australia will work.  A variety of cyclists are catered for, from mountain bike parks, rail trails, the peaks in the Adelaide Hills for road warriors or casual riverside riding in Adelaide.  Our particular favourite cycling trip combines the rail trails across the state, which are the Barossa Rail Trail, the Clare Valley Riesling Rail Trail, the McLaren Vale Shiraz Trail and the Amy Gillet trail in the Adelaide Hills.  As you can guess, there is plenty of food and wine on this itinerary.  Tour de Vines has a South Australian cycling tour that combines all these regions.

Exploring McLaren Vale on the Shiraz Trail

3. Tasmanian East Coast

Possibly one of Australia’s best and increasingly popular cycling trips.  Most riders start in Launceston and cruise down the east coast to Hobart via the stunning Freycinet Peninsula (Wineglass Bay). The coastal road itself whilst undulating isn’t technical or overly difficult, albeit with some traffic in the holiday months, so is within reach for most semi regular cyclists.  It would be remiss to ignore the beautiful North East Tasmania Rail Trail just out of Launceston, which is the ideal off road start to get the legs warmed up.

This cycling trip combines beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, incredible seafood (think oysters straight from the sea), world class vineyards and cute seaside towns that make for ideal overnight stops.  A diversion to the car-free Maria Island is ideal for cycling, and a true wildlife experience awaits.  Check out the popular Tour de Vines Launceston to Hobart cycling tour .

Cycling the scenic East Coast of Tasmania

4. Cycle the Mawson Trail

This is one of Australia’s great cycling trips, but also one of the most challenging.  The rewards are there, especially riding into the Flinders Ranges towards the end, but it requires effort and plenty of grit and planning.  Weather, water, trail conditions and places to stop are not always favourable.  But the sense of satisfaction is enormous, and covering the 800+kms self sufficient and seeing the Barossa, Adelaide and nearby Adelaide Hills through to the Flinders Ranges is memorable.

The challenging Mawson Trail is one of Australia’s best cycling trips

5. Ride the Goldfields Track, Victoria

The Goldfields Track runs from Ballarat to Bendigo, via Daylesford and Castlemaine and makes for a great mountain biking trip.   This off road, 180km+ track is ideal for moderate level riders and includes spectacular goldfields, forest and rural scenery.  Easily accessible from Melbourne, this is a cycling trip for those perhaps seeking an introduction to bike touring or seeking a long weekend of easy mountain biking in Australia.   Start your planning at the Goldfields Track website .

The Goldfields Trail runs from Ballarat to Bendigo and is an ideal long weekend ride

6. Honourable Mention: The New Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail

The Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail is New south Wales’ first official rail trail.  A testament to the persistence of the lobby group Rail Trails for NSW and to how difficult it has been to get rail trails in NSW.  That aside, this is a wonderful new cycling trail that deserves exploring.   A sealed, off road rail trail stretching over 20kms.  We haven’t as yet ridden this trail but images and reports make this a must ride list addition.  We need to encourage more rail trails in NSW and so this trail gets a mention on this list.

Riding the new Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail trail in NSW

This list is by no means exhaustive. Whatever your style of riding, Australia is developing a variety of infrastructure and trails to suit any style of cycling trip.

See the list of Australian cycling trips Tour de Vines offers and get out there and ride!

8 Best Cycling Trips in Australia

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Victoria's High Country, Australia. Photo courtesy of Visit Victoria

Gorgeous trails and scenic country roads make traveling around Australia by bicycle very appealing, with the following eight best cycling trips in the country perfect for your outdoor adventure.

Whether you wish to slip away into the Australian countryside beneath towering mountain peaks, veer off the beaten path along shady trails that weave through protected reserves, or pedal along coastal promenades and dirt tracks overlooking the sea, there is something for every cyclist visiting Australia.

Whether an enthusiast or novice, this selection of great cycling trips and routes will help you uncover the beauty of the country on two wheels.

1. Victoria High Country Trail, Victoria

2. great ocean road, victoria, 3. rottnest island, western australia, 4. wollemi cycle trail, new south wales, 5. tasmanian trail, tasmania, 6. mawson trail, south australia, 7. cairns and lake placid, queensland, 8. darwin rail trail, northern territory, explore the best cycling routes in australia.

Victoria's High Country, Australia. Photo courtesy Visit Victoria

The alpine slopes and valleys of Victoria create the High Country. Villages, gourmet restaurants, boutique wineries, and micro-breweries change the dynamic of cycling along the winding mountainside trails.

The spectacular landscape follows the footsteps of notorious Australian outlaw Ned Kelly between Melbourne and Beechworth, or leads to elevated prairies and protected wildlife reflected in the glassy lakes at Mount Buffalo. Combine the rush of cycling, the beauty of the scenery, and the pleasures of craft beer on the road from Glenrowan to Mount Beauty when visiting four local breweries during intermittent breaks between mountain biking.

Cycling Victoria’s High Country Trail is an excellent adventure activity to add to two-week Australia tours visiting the popular and unexpected across the country.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Great Ocean Road, Australia. Photo courtesy of Visit Victoria

The two-lane roadway that winds along the southern coast of Victoria is best known for its gorgeous views of dramatic landscapes and offers a 150-mile stretch for cycling between Torquay to Warrnambool.

The road grows crowded with tour buses and slow-moving cars filled with people gawking at the scenery, making the shoulder season the best time to cycle the narrow road without succumbing to the chill, wind, and rain during the low season.

The winding cliffs, beaches, ocean stacks, rainforest, and sandy beaches make for an unforgettable introduction to Australia’s diverse topography and fantastic cycling trips, and a perfect addition to a 10-day Australia tour passing through Victoria.

Rottnest Island, Australia. Photo courtesy of Western Australia

Brilliant scenery encapsulated by endless beaches, colorful cliffs, and mostly traffic-free roads, Rottnest Island provides the perfect cycling destination in Australia.

With the exception of buses, the roads are clear of cars, covering mostly flat landscape for seven square miles. Cyclists of any experience level can enjoy circling the island or venturing to different beaches to relax on the soft sands or surf the waves.

As one of the best places to view wildlife in Australia , cycling trips in Rottnest Island will also reveal the friendly quokkas and other curious creatures thriving in the protected wildlife paradise.

Wollemi National Park, Australia

Pine forests that give Wollemi National Park its name, small towns nestled inland, and remarkable natural phenomena draw cyclists to the New South Wales trail.

The entire trail can take multiple days to complete, but new cyclists and veterans can experience the beautiful route by choosing sections of preference. You could explore the lanes of Katoomba and veer off the beaten path to villages beneath the magnificent Blue Mountains. Other trails wind to the untouched Newnes Plateau and guide cyclists through glow-worm tunnels.

One of the most remote and remarkable natural regions of New South Wales, every inch of this route is surrounded by sensational scenery. Most travelers choose to explore the region on tours from Sydney that provide room to arrive at and discover the many wonders of Wollemi.

Sheffield, Australia. Photo courtesy of Andrew Bain / Tourism Tasmania

The Tasmanian Trail takes cyclists through national parks and forests that create a beautiful backdrop of green countryside and sparse plains.

Combining multiple easy rides, cyclists of varying levels can choose short trips or longer journeys through the immense Tasmanian countryside. Dusty tracks, wooden pathways, and steep slopes make cycling through the region feel disconnected from the rest of the world. There is something magical about venturing across the thriving island state with few others in sight.

Along the way, you can stop to spot wildlife and may catch a glimpse of the elusive Tasmanian devil, wallabies, kangaroos, and more of Australia’s unusual animals .

Flinders Ranges, Australia

The Mawson Trail weaves across the South Australian Outback, inviting travelers onto one of the best bike trips in the barren reaches of the Adelaide Hills and beyond.

For almost the entire length of the journey, you will cycle along dusty trails, through farmlands, and reserves. There is no traffic and no main roads to worry about as you venture out across the immense South Australian Outback.

Country towns and the stunning Barossa wine region, one of Australia’s best wine regions , are highlights to experience along the trail, as well as much more in the Flinders Ranges.

Cairns, Australia. Photo courtesy of Tourism Australia

Cairns is a stunning coastal getaway in Queensland, with fantastic cycling routes across the city. Lake Placid trails remain favorites as they offer starts within the city and roads that wind to the famous Lake Placid Loop.

The loop guides cyclists along the lake’s forest paths to picnic shelters that overlook sparkling water. You will hear birds and view the flourishing flora that creates the green hub surrounding Lake Placid.

This cycling trip reveals the natural beauty of Queensland and concludes along the Cairns esplanade, where you can relax looking out over the reefs fringing the Coral Sea. As a popular stop on Great Barrier Reef tours , travelers can combine cycling in Cairns with exploring Australia’s iconic marine sanctuary.

Darwin in Northern Territory, Australia

Many magnificent routes run across Australia’s Northern Territory and the Darwin Rail Trail is one of the most historic and beautiful.

The paths follow the former North Australian Railway, guiding cyclists along old railway embankments beneath forest canopies. Beyond woodlands and thriving environments, the rich history of this railway route comes to life.

You can visit charming towns and Howard Springs as you enjoy views of Australia’s Northern Territory on comfortable or challenging cycles during your vacation.

Rottnest Island, Australia. Photo courtesy Tourism Australia

Explore the eight best cycling trips in Australia, visiting the Outback, coastline, and national parks on one of our tailored Australia vacations and tours . These trailblazing routes are recognized for their panoramic views of gorgeous land and seascapes, giving you the opportunity to witness the local wildlife or stop at historic towns.

As you plan for your cycling trips in Australia, you can also find more insight and information to help you prepare for your adventure in our Australia travel guide .

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The Best Bike Trails In Australia To Hit This Weekend

By Jessica Best

9th Nov 2023

Quick facts—Australia is a big blazin’ sprawl of coastal lusciousness, rainforest, outback and bushland. That’s approximately 8 million square kilometres of land ready for your next biking adventure.

And no matter what people say, there’s no better way to explore nature's own than with a backpack (stocked with snacks and water), a good pair of shoes, a helmet and ye ol’ bicycle from your garage. Whether you’re keen to work up a sweat and traverse some mountainous ranges or you’re just here for the cellar door pitstops, these bike trails will truly change the way you see Australia.

Here are the best bike trips to take in Australia.

Cassowary Coast

It wouldn’t really be the quintessential Queensland trip if it didn’t make the most of the Sunshine Coast’s incredible shoreline, right? If Australia’s bike tracks could talk, they would admit enviable defeat on all fronts to far north Queensland’s ridiculously beautiful and offensively stunning Cassowary Coast . And that’s all we have to say about that.

Kidding. The Mission Beach part of this scenic spin (there are plenty of other tracks to choose from too) will have you rolling along beautiful sands, sleepy coastal towns and World Heritage rainforest, ie. it tops any Euro-trip you’ve ever been on. The idea is that you’ll risk the pre-sunrise alarm to lock in one of the best two days of your life. If you kick off early at Mission Beach, you should definitely be fuelling your day at Joey’s Beach Cafe (go the chicken and chilli jam wrap for max deliciousness) and from here, you can head down Musgravea Track which keeps a secret swimming hole for you to cool off at later in the day, so packing swimmers is a must. Don’t miss Mamu Tropical Skywalk (to give those pedalling legs a break) and on day two, close of your biking adventure with an epic dinner at Peppervine.

Distance: 200km

Murray To Mountains Rail Trail

It’s one of the most popular bike tracks to hit in Victoria and there’s a very good reason why. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is any major foodie’s version of paradise, from natural bushland to verdant farmland, you’ll get to wrap several trips into one with this ride (sans airport check-in and city traffic—winning). This bike trail sports some of Australia’s finest gourmet produce, renowned wines and handcrafted beer and if that doesn’t speak your language, we don’t know what will.

Pending which trail you choose, the beauty is that there are many and you can go as far (or not) as you like, you’ll be winding through towns like Wangaratta, Beechworth, Rutherglen, Bright and Myrtleford. The Rutherglen leg will have you stopping at historic cellar doors, local restaurants and cafes and along the Myrtleford and Porepunkah section, you’ll be privy to the iconic silhouettes of the region’s tobacco kilns which are a breathtaking sight at sunset.

Distance: 100km

Munda Biddi Trail

Western australia.

All you really need to know about Western Australia’s Munda Biddi Trail  is that it is a trip of a lifetime (no exaggeration). You can don your best activewear for as little as a day or make the most of it (and we highly suggest that you do) in a multi-day bike ride prettier than any Aussie road trip. The trail traverses WA’s Darling Range and Southern Forests through Eucalypt bushland, granite outcrops and wetlands.

This trail is definitely worth the interstate trip too when you can because South West WA is actually recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot and you’ll get to see plants and wildlife quite literally found nowhere else in the world. The charming town of Dwellingup should most definitely be on your bucket list, there’s a heap of fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing and white water rafting to do here, as is Collie—Australia’s “tidiest town” and home to the beautiful micro-brewery known as Harris River Estate (you know, to keep yourself hydrated).

Distance: 1000km

Riesling Trail

South australia.

If the name alone of this bike trail didn’t catch your attention, it’s impressive landscape will. Crossing the picturesque Clare Valley wine region, the Riesling Trail is one of the first rail-trails to be developed in South Australia and it just so happens that the best way to explore it is on two wheels.

The bike trail runs from Auburn to Claire and onto Barinia and you’ll find it about a two-hour drive, north of Adelaide. Naturally, your pitstops will look like cellar doors so keep an eye out for the beautiful Knappstein Enterprises Winery and Brewery, the part cafe part grocery store part pizza mecca known as Watervale General Store and the rural palace that is Stone Bridge Wines.

Distance: 35km

Maria Island

You’ll want to venture down to Tasmania for a bike trip that is absolutely one of Australia’s best-kept secrets (until now). Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary and off-shore, rugged oasis dotted with historic ruins, sweeping bays, dramatic cliffs and vistas aplenty. Located off Tasmania’s east coast and only accessible by ferry, this place isn’t for those looking to pedal out for the day only to come back to some top-notch hotel room service.

Your options here are to stay at the old penitentiary building at Darlington or go full off-road and hit one of the many camping sites on the island (Encampment Cove is a two-hour pedal away and yes it’s as majestic as it sounds). Make sure you check out The Painted Cliffs here, it looks exactly like the Vermilion Cliffs in the State’s Arizona.

Distance: 4km-40km

Thredbo Valley Track

One of the most popular places to hit in NSW for a bit of bike riding happens to be in the heart of Thredbo Valley. The Thredbo Valley Track is a widely used trail that sprawls over suspension bridges and through the banks of the famous Thredbo River, open grasslands, and thick eucalyptus forest.

The track is an epic win for novice riders through to those who frequent lycra attire on the regular with a beginner's stretch looping around Rangers Station (which caps at around 12km return) or a route which heads around Lake Crackenback Resort (about 20km return). You can also hit a newer part of the track—the lower Thredbo Valley extension which adds another 15km to the trail from Lake Crackenback to Gaden Trout Hatchery.

Distance: 5km-35km

And here's the one trip every Aussie needs to do once in their lifetime.

Image credit: Mission Beach Tourism, Ride High Country, Tony Pham, Michelle Ziling Ou, Tasmania Parks And Wildlife Service, Destination NSW

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Self Guided Cycle Tours

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A self guided, or independent, cycling trip provides you with the complete freedom to travel to your own schedule with the full support of knowing the key logistics have been taken care of for you. Explore Australia at your own pace as you embark on the ultimate self guided cycling experience.

Be your own captain and navigate the back lanes, streets and roads of coastlines, quaint towns and rural countryside, with detailed route descriptions and maps to assist with navigation, with cares and worries limited to how often you want to stop to take photos.

You’ll uncover a heightened connection to your destination, immersing your senses in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the destination, all at your own relaxed pace. Your worries will be left on the pavement, as all luggage and accommodation details will be taken care of by our adventure specialists, leaving you free to pedal and stop wherever or whenever your heart desires to fully soak up the delights of the region.

On our point to point journeys, after a day of cycling, you’ll find your luggage has been transferred to your next accommodation, typically charming two, three or four star hotels, inns, or vineyard homes that embrace the local flavour and style. With modern 21-speed bicycles or electric bikes supplied, you’ll feel the wind in your hair in no time at all.

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As the pioneers of self guided active travel in Australia you can expect a seamless experience. Our quality tour notes and logistical expertise sets us apart and ensures a quality experience for you.

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Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. We've sourced the highest quality bikes and most authentic accommodations so you can enjoy a stress free cycling trip.

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Our team is passionate about cycling in Australia and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for you.

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The bicycles we provide are high quality Avanti ‘Giro’ hybrid touring bikes, with 16-speed Shimano Altus gears for on-demand, quick gear change across a wide gear range.

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Avanti Discovery Low Electric Bike available for hire at an additional cost. The Discovery Low E is built for comfort. With a soft seat, upright riding position and Shimano STEPS electronic assist, you’ll be riding further with ease.

Australian Cycle Tours is committed to responsible travel and true sustainability. It was a commitment formed when the company was established, and today, in the face of a multitude of threats to global environments and cultures, our commitment is stronger than ever. Over several decades we have honed our responsible travel philosophy and are continually assessing and improving initiatives that are practiced in the field to ensure that we are mitigating our impact to the smallest possible footprint. View our award winning Responsible Travel Guidebook here .

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Most of our cycling tours stay in clean, comfortable, multi-share accommodation that are operated by local families.

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Mountain biking, Maria Island National Park, Tasmania © Matt Staggs

The best biking trails in Australia

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From cruising around the city to taking on rugged mountain trails, look no further for the best cycling experiences Australia has to offer.

By Anna Lavdaras and Carly Spek

From pretty park trails to buzzing waterfront rides, there is plenty of cycling to be done in Australia’s cities. The enclosed 3.7km (2.3mi) loop track in Sydney’s Centennial Park is perfect for family cycling adventures. In  Melbourne , combine the city's love of coffee and cycling with Melbourne by Bike , or take a solo trip along the 30km (19mi) Capital City Trail. With an enormous network of bike paths weaving their way through the city, Canberra is a serious contender for Australia’s most cycling-friendly city. In Queensland’s capital, the Brisbane River Loop is an absolute must.

Top city walks in Australia

Meander through a maze of laneways, bridges, riverbanks and parks on Australia's best urban walks.

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Australia's rugged natural beauty makes the perfect backdrop for epic mountain bike trails. The tracks in Tasmania are particularly exhilarating, from the twisting network of Blue Derby near Launceston to the downhill hurtle towards Hobart from the top of kunanyi/Mount Wellington. In New South Wales, you’ll find some serious elevation, challenging climbs and thrilling descents amid the tracks in Kosciuszko National Park, home to Australia’s highest peak. A three-hour drive from Adelaide , Mount Remarkable National Park is an epic place for single-track mountain biking, with cyclists flocking to the Melrose Fat Tyre Festival each winter.

10 mountain bike trails to shred in Tasmania

Riders worldwide are making tracks to Tasmania.

Read time • 5min

There’s no shortage of seaside rides along Australia’s endless coastline. Weave along the 13km (8mi) Bruns to Byron Beach ride in the famous town of Byron Bay , known for its laid-back beach culture. In Western Australia, Rottnest Island is a cyclists’ wonderland, with flat, car-free roads leading to many of the island’s 63 beaches. You can’t sum up the best coastal cycling without mentioning the Great Ocean Road , Australia’s most scenic road trip. Picture 664km (412mi) of uninterrupted clifftop, coastal and rainforest views.

Guide to Rottnest Island

When it’s time to relax and recharge, swap the rush of the city for an idyllic escape on Rottnest Island.

Read time • 4min

From rugged desert to lush rainforest, there are spectacular landscapes to explore by bike in every corner of Australia. A quintessential Aussie journey is a self-guided cycle around Ulu r u , Australia’s spiritual epicentre. Experience this sacred Aboriginal land and observe ancient rock art along the way. Another notable cycling mecca is located an hour south of Sydney . The Royal National Park  offers 70km (43mi) of roads that snake through the oldest nature reserve in Australia. Long haul trips for serious cyclists include the Gibb River Road and Tanami Road in Western Australia, both boasting plenty of watering holes along the way.

Guide to Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The ancient rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the land to make an incredible sight. Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal stories of this special place, 500 million years in the making.

Leafy vines, world-class drops and gentle rides – cycling through Australia’s wine regions makes for an enriching experience. Along the Riesling Trail in the Clare Valley , join Tour De Vines to take in farmland, forests and award-winning cellar doors. Nearby McLaren Vale is perfect for families, with slight inclines and vineyard vistas along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail . In Victoria, Mornington Peninsula’s Cycling Vine Tours will weave you through an enchanting coastal wine region, or three hours north of Sydney , the Hunter Valley promises great wine, cruisy trails and mesmerising views.

Australia’s best wine regions

Charming landscapes, exquisite food, and world-class wines. It all comes together at wineries across Australia.

There are plenty of exciting animals to spot when cycling Down Under, but certain trails are especially abundant. Tassie’s Maria Island  doesn't allow cars, so the only traffic that exists are wombats and kangaroos . In the Northern Territory, the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is a place everybody should visit at least once. Here, you’ll find great opportunities for cycling as well as thundering waterfalls, ancient rock art and a luscious rainforest housing an array of native wildlife.

Animal encounters and wildlife experiences in Australia

Come and meet the cute creatures that call Australia home.

Read time • 7min

For a dose of history with your ride, take to the Goldfields Track, a 21km (130mi) route named for the abundant gold supplies responsible for making Melbourne – at one point in history – one of the richest cities in the world. As Australia’s capital city, Canberra is also littered with historically significant sites. Check out the Canberra Centenary Trail to weave past important sites such as Parliament House and Hall Village, or tailor your own adventure with Mulga Bicycle Tours .

Australia’s historical and cultural experiences

From national monuments to avant-garde galleries and independent theatres, these are Australia’s greatest historical and cultural treasures.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Tasmania – UnderDownunder

• Dates & Prices
• Accommodation
• Food & Wine
• Testimonials

We can confidently say that no-one has ever done a bike tour of Tasmania like this before.

Australia’s island state of Tasmania is full of contrasts; from white deserted beaches to rugged mountains and rainforests, wild rivers and historic villages. More than 42% of the state is National Park and much of that is World Heritage listed. We will explore Tasmania’s unique flora and fauna and breathtaking natural beauty: Also delve into its European settlement history - plentiful for such a short period and unfortunately, remarkably bloody. We learn about the indigenous people of Tasmania from their descendants - hear their stories of the Dreamtime and see Tasmania through their eyes as it was pre-white settlement.

We will also visit the state’s oldest and newest man-made attractions. The sinister, atmospheric ruins of Port Arthur prison and Sarah Island are intriguing and the recently opened Museum of old and new art - MONA - is a sensational collection as well as architecturally fascinating. Some have suggested it could be the best museum in the world!

In 2020 we have made 2 major improvements to the tour incorporating the option to climb Jacob's Ladder (see gallery below), Tasmania's epic and rugged switchback climb and a sea cruise to World Heritage listed Gordon River and convict island prison, Sarah Island.

Come make the most of your vacation after a couple years where overseas travel has been impossible; support Australian tourism and ride in Australia's premier cycling location.

UNDERDOWNUNDER

Enter your details below to receive the full Tasmania Odyssey Itinerary:

Isabel studied psychology and history at Sydney University and then worked and travelled extensively as a teachers aide, in disabilities and training racehorses, before finally settling in London. Here she trained and then worked as a Paramedic for 5 years. Isabel is a real people’s person and will do anything to ensure you are not just getting a magical trip but are looked after like you are her family.

Hobart-> Cradle Mountain -> Launceston -> Freycinet -> Hobart

• Departing Hobart, ride up into the highlands and past button grass plains, highland lakes and through magnificent temperate rainforests into the Southwest World Heritage Area. (2021 only)
• Roll from Lake St Clair to the rugged west coast along a ribbon of road rated by Lonely Planet as one of the world's best rides. (2021 only)
• Enjoy a cruise to Hell's Gate, Gordon River and Sarah Island in the wilds of Tasmania only accessible by boat. (2021 only)
• Beautiful Cradle Mountain, our 2020 tour's starting location and Tasmania’s most well-known and best-loved peak and get up close to some of Tasmania’s native wildlife, including Tasmanian Devils.
• Enjoy quiet country roads that wend their way through peaceful valleys and along the Tamar River wine region, including perhaps Tasmania’s most popular cycling route.
• Traverse the sparsely populated northeast, with the option to take on Tasmania’s iconic gravel climb - Jacob’s Ladder - before rolling on to the magical Bay of Fires.
• Revel in the unique Tasmanian east coast experience, cruising past glittering white beaches, dropping into wineries and exploring wonderful Freycinet National Park.
• Visit World Heritage listed Port Arthur, Australia’s best-preserved, most infamous and largest penal colony.
• Delight in the cycling on Bruny Island, home to Get Shucked Oysters, the Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Company and more gorgeous riding terrain spinning along the water's edge.
• Finish in Hobart, the state capital. A vibrant city with a great restaurant scene, a world class symphony orchestra, beautiful botanical gardens and MONA - arguably the world’s best modern art gallery beating New York's MoMA and London's Tate Modern in the Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travelist.

• For bike rental options please click here.
• Please note that Tasmania: UnderDownunder is priced in AUD - Australian Dollars. The exchange rate, if required, will be locked in on the day of deposit.
• These prices are twin share. If you choose to have your own room, a single supplement of 135 AUD per night is applicable. This is calculated solely on the difference between single and double room costs.

Doug Bruce,  pictured here with wife Dianne at the top of kunanyi (Mt Wellington),  wrote a fantastic blog on the Tasmanian Odyssey in 2019.

The blog covers both his Tasmanian and Lionheart Odysseys. You can  read it here.

A tour with stunning scenery whether it be the rugged Australian bush or crystal clear oceans where we listen to the sea and have an aperitif while experiencing the best sunsets. Here are some of the places where we will stay...

Tasmania is a verdant, green island of fertile soils. Pure rainfall from the cleanest air on Earth and the clear waters of the Tasman Sea and Southern Ocean are the elements that combine to create Tasmania’s wonderful fresh, natural produce and acclaimed cool-climate wines.

Each region of the island has its specialities – fresh seafood from cold and clean West Coast waters, wholesome farm and dairy produce from North West fields, full-bodied reds and delicate whites from grapes ripened in the East Coast vineyards, and apple, pear and cherry orchards abound in the Huon Valley south of Hobart.

Aboriginal people have lived in Tasmania for around 40,000 years. Having travelled from the mainland while the lands were joined during the last ice age. Around 12,000 years ago, the sea level rose as the ice melted and Tasmania became isolated from the mainland of Australia. Survival in this changing landscape was challenging and dependent upon the ability to harvest both aquatic resources, such as seals and shellfish, and terrestrial flora and fauna, such as fern roots and wallabies. Aboriginal people developed water crafts and their rich and dynamic culture continued despite the adverse climatic conditions.

The first European to see Tasmania was Abel Tasman in 1642. Captain Cook reached Tasmania in 1777, then in 1798 Matthew Flinders became the first person to circumnavigate the island.

Read more about the history of Tasmania

The relationship between the settling Europeans and Indigenous Tasmanians had a terrible beginning in 1804 with the ‘battle’ of Risdon Cove, when soldiers fired upon Indigenous Tasmanians.

Many more were killed in the ensuing years, especially during the ‘Black War’ of the 1820s, in attempts to clear them off the land the Europeans wanted to settle on.

Meanwhile, many indigenous Tasmanians died of diseases introduced by the settling Europeans. The Governor of Tasmania from 1824 to 1837, George Arthur, declared martial law hoping to end the warfare. In 1830 he ordered all able-bodied white men to form a line across Tasmania and sweep across it forcing all the remaining Indigenous Tasmanians onto the Tasman Peninsula. However, this move, known as the Black Line, failed miserably. Eventually, a preacher named George Robinson agreed to try and persuade the remaining indigenous people (only around 300 in total by this stage!) to go to a reservation on Flinders Island. The surviving people did agree to go there. However, they continued to die of disease and in 1847 the few survivors were allowed back onto mainland Tasmania.

Significantly, the first penal settlement in Tasmania was founded in 1822, and in 1825 Van Diemen’s Land was recognised as a colony in its own right, separate from the rest of Australia.

In 1842 Hobart was made a city and an important shipbuilding industry grew. Convicts continued to arrive and transportation only ended in 1852. In 1856, to avoid the unsavoury connections with its penal history, the name of the colony was changed from Van Diemen’s Land to Tasmania.

In 1898 Tasmanians voted in a referendum to join with the rest of Australia, thus the Commonwealth of Australia was formed in 1901. Today the population of Tasmania is 515,000.

Kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, wombats, platypi, Tasmanian devils...travelling through the Tasmanian World Heritage Area will give you an excellent chance to see all of these amazing animals and more. Walking along the paths and cycling the roads you will definitely come across the bigger marsupials -  we will hopefully catch sight of the more elusive platypus at Lake St. Clair; and the endangered Tasmanian devils we will definitely see at Cradle Mountain.

 The organisers magnificently curate routes, food and hotel suppliers that are world class! Their support team of a bicycle mechanic and masseuse complement a sublimely curated experience delivering an amazing experience. Incredible pre-planning ensures every detail prior is considered and, as an adventure package experience, this is as good as it gets.  I wish Bike Odyssey every ongoing success in delivering world class adventure.

Great support, great organisation, great fun, great Sam, great everything!!!    

Fantastic personalised service & continuous attention to the needs of a diverse group of clients.    

The tour was essentially a push-bike circumnavigation of Tasmania over 3 weeks. It was fully supported with accommodation at some of Tasmania’s top hotels and a smattering of more modest accommodation at some more remote locations. Sam and Isi and the masseuse, Sarah couldn’t do enough for us to make our experience a fabulous one. Whilst not cheapest bike riding holiday, you get what you pay for and this is a perfect example of that. I will continue to choose Bike Odyssey.

This was a hard ride — days had 1000 or more metres of climbing [with the option of more!] and an average of 100km of rolling terrain, but thoroughly enjoyable. Those discomforts were more than made up for by the scenery, food and wine. Sam was an attentive and skillful jack-of-all trades and Isabel was an energetic and enthusiastic presence at all times. Between them, they served up a varied and wonderful smorgasbord of hotels, meals and drinks. They consistently accommodated the varied and idiosyncratic requests of the touring group.

A really relaxing, well organised and enjoyable trip. Sam and Isi were enthusiastic, supportive and very personable tour leaders. Would heartily recommend Bike Odyssey trips.    

Our Bike Odyssey tour of Tasmania from Hobart to Launceston was a magical experience. The organization by Isabella and Sam was impeccable and the expertise in cycling an inspiration! The routes chosen were ideal to challenge and offer wonderful views of the countryside at the same time. The accommodation venues arranged were all of a high quality and we certainly appreciated the remedial massages with Sarah! We look forward to joining many future adventures with the amazing Bike Odyssey team!!

Great week of riding and guide support. Well structured itinerary with some great stops along the way (winery, cheese factory, fish shop, famous pub etc). Suitable focus on “where is the next coffee” and great picnics. Sam and Isabel do a great job of making the journey a pleasure.

THE way to see Tasmania! This must be the best way to see Tasmania! Riding pace to get around and fabulous food and accommodation to keep you fresh. I absolutely loved it, including the challenges like climbing kunyani/Mt Wellington and Jacob’s Ladder at Ben Lomond. Isabel and Sam were fantastic guides/hosts and the routes were well researched. Can’t wait to do another Bike Odyssey!

Outstanding support & customer service. Tassie Down Under was my first Bike Odyssey and I couldn’t have been more thrilled with how it all went! Sam and Isabel leave nothing to chance. They are super organized and extremely accommodating to the varying needs of each person on tour. The support they gave us both on and off the bike was absolutely outstanding. The accommodation was high end and the meals were incredible. I’m already planning my next Bike Odyssey and it won’t be my last!

A great trip all around; beautiful Tasmania countryside, well organized, excellent communication, helpful leaders (Cam for President), outstanding restaurants and mostly top-quality hotels. I especially appreciate Sam driving us two hours to the airport due to our leaving the trip early. Very kind of him. A challenging, gratifying and memorable trip.

First tour was Tassie. Had a great time. Looking forward to doing Morocco in 2021.    

Everything was done exceptionally well – from the amazing route and scenery, the scrumptious picnic lunches, the fantastic accommodation and first class evening meals. The relaxed, yet organized atmosphere that Sam and Cam created among all the riders was the cherry on the cake. This was my first tour with Bike Odyssey and I give them the highest of recommendations.

An excellent experience from the first enquiry to the last day of the holiday. The routes, accommodations, picnics and the support on the road were all excellent throughout the trip. The routes well thought out and the bike I hired from them was excellent.

Awesome Guides, fantastic accommodation, best riding ever. If you ride a bike, book a holiday with these guys. You won’t regret it!    

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We usually add a bit of history too!

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Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Bikepacking Australia – 8 Bucket List Worthy Routes!

Personally I have gotten more and more interested in the idea of travelling on the path less known in the middle of the wilderness. Experiencing complete seclusion and peace from all the distraction life seems to through at us.

I have compiled a comprehensive list, mostly of all the bike packing adventures that I want to get the chance to undertake in Australia.

This list is a mixture of long multi week trips and as short as a weekend getaway, with many different difficulty levels.

Consider this a resources page to come back to later, after you have completed the first trip on this list. I put this together for me to refer to but I hope you will get some benefit out of it also.

So lets get started with this wanderlust list of epic Australian bikepacking adventures, in no particular order!

1. Australian Alps Trial (900 km+)

A epic ride that travels through the rooftop of Australia, across exposed high plains, through snow gum woodlands, along backcountry trails and amongst tall native forests. Linking Canberra and Melbourne with limited resupply point along the way. With some of Australia’s most amazing high country campsites.

Highlights of the ride

• The Jagungal Wilderness area
• Camping in The Alpine huts 
• Hike a Bike sections
• A beer at country pub
• Camping under the clear mountain skies, with the most beautiful starry nights.  
• Mountain air and solitude
• Drinking from the mountain streams

Websites with resources and information.

5 Things I Learnt On The Hunt 1000

The Hunt 1000 Australian Alps Trail

2. Attack of The Buns (320 km+)

This route takes you from Bungendore, near Canberra to Bundanoon, it can be used as a even longer trip linking Canberra to Sydney which would be a epic adventure.

However this 320 Km route is around a 3 day trip. Travelling through Australia’s Southern Tablelands and Highlands. Joining up three significant sections. Offering car-free, wild, forest trails with quiet gravel backroads and short paved sections through four towns.

It’s a perfect route if you are looking to get away for a long weekend. Treating nature lovers with lush landscapes, wildlife, majestic cliffs, and rock formations.

• The incredibly diverse Red Ground Track
• Many Little creek crossings
• Kangaroo Valley, has Australia’s oldest suspension bridge and lots of great foods.
• The short detour to get to Tianjara Falls
• The car-free, rainforested Griffins Firetrail 
• The series of 4-5 waterfalls at Fitzroy Falls

Attack of The Buns

Attack Of The Buns: Bikepacking The Morton National Park

Join the Facebook group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/208507806611726/

3. Munda Biddi Trail (1000 km)

The Trail traverses Western Australia’s Darling Range and Southern Forests through Eucalypt bushland, granite outcrops and unique wetlands. South-West WA is recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot, you will discover plants and wildlife found nowhere else.

There are few places in the world where a 1000km trail could be built through an undeveloped natural corridor.

You can stay in two types of camp sites along the trail. The purpose-built Munda Biddi campsites and the regular forest-based campsites.

From what I hear, from bikepackers this is a very popular and highly recommended route. I have met many people who tell me you have to ride this trail! So for me it has a spot on my list.

Frequently Asked Questions

MUNDA BIDDI OFFICAL SIT E

4. Mawson Trail (900 km)

The Mawson Trails in Adelaide Hills, is a 2.3 week bikepacking adventure covering 900 km. From Blinman into Adeliade SA, via little-used country roads, State forest and national park fire trails, farm access tracks and unmade or unused road reserves. Avoiding traffic and bitumen roads and leads cyclists into the remote areas of the Flinders Ranges.

MAWSON TRAIL OFFICAL SITE WITH ALL INFORMATION

5. australian canning stock route (1640 km).

This is a epic adventure!

By far the most challenging one on the list. Something that will require a fat bike to ride, with ‘fat’ tyres – 4 inches wide or more. Due to the soft sand and corrugations dominating this route.

Due to the lack of supplies along the route. Unsupported riders will be required to transport their own food for 30-35 days and up to 4-5 days water.

But if you are up for the challenge, the Australian Canning Stock Route could be the ultimate adventure. A ride that will test yourself, with mental and physical challenge. Requiring careful thought and preparation.

In the heart of WA, Spanning around the Gibson and Great Sandy Deserts. The route covers over 1,600 km that will take 30 days or more.

BICYCLE NOMAD

Fat-bikepacking Australia’s Canning Stock Route

6. The Tasmanian Trail (465 km)

Since bike touring the east cost of Tasmania it would be cool to head back and ride through the middle of Tasmania via The Tasmanian Trail.

From Dover Heading North to Devonport, around 465 km would be a great 10 day adventure. Exploring Tasmania’s unique beauty, gorgeous wildlife and unspoiled wilderness.

• Giant eucalyptus cracking in the wind
• Dervent Valley hops fields Scenic Views
• Meet Wallabies and Opossum along the route
• Plan to camp at Dee Lagon

The Tasmanian Trail

CYCLE TRAIL AUSTRALIA

TASMANIAN TRAIL SITE

7. Tasmania’s Wild West Coast

A shorter route the travels through the Wild and remote Tasmanian West Coast, located in the top West corner of Tasmania.

This route travels from Granville Harbour to Arthur River. May require a fat bike, due to beach terrain.

• The mix of journey and technical riding
• Pounding surf and solitude
• 4 seasons in one day

Fat-packing Tasmania’s Wild West Coast

A Tasmanian Adventure!

If you want some Tasmania Bike Touring wanderlust, I have a playlist on YouTube documenting my adventures across the East Coast of Tasmania

8. Victoria Divide 550

This is an update on this article since I just rode the 2020 Vic Divide and it was so good it deserves a spot here. A big thanks to Lewis Ciddor, the one who organized this event and route. If you are after something that is challenging this might be the bikepacking adventure for you. You can sign up for the event or ride at your own pace any other time. I am writing a separate and in more detailed article all about my personal experience of the Vic Divide.

But this year was around 572 km with about 12,000 m of climbing. When it comes to km and climbing ratio this is one of the toughest out there. One of the highlights for this route is the potential to stay at a number of the Victorian High Country Huts along the route. The climbing is some of the hardest I have ridden on any route. It pays to have MTB gearing if possible. The views and scenery at Buller are all worth the hard efforts getting there!

More information can be found here at the Facebook page for the Vic Divide

Route GPX Download: https://tinyurl.com/vd2020gpx

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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Top 15 Best Mountain Bike Parks Australia for Summer 2024

Amb’s top 10 picks for best mountain bike parks to visit this spring and summer 2024.

Words: Mike Blewitt Photos: Nick Waygood, Tim Bardsley-Smith, Georgina von Marburg, Denzil Heeger

Summer is almost here, and it is time to ride! The past decade has seen an explosion of mountain bike trails around the country, and the past 5 years have seen more bike parks built to create a one-stop shop for a fun day on the trails. Here’s our pick of some of the best mountain bike parks Australia has to offer.

Top 15 best Australian mountain bike parks to visit in summer 2024

Thredbo, new south wales, falls creek, victoria.

• Mt Buller, Victoria
• Mystic Bike Park, Victoria

Mt Stromlo, Australian Capital Territory

Mt baw baw, victoria.

• Big Hill Mountain Bike Park, Victoria
• Maydena, Tasmania

Blue Derby, Tasmania

• Nannup Tank 7, Western Australia
• Linga Longa, Western Australia
• Finch Hatton, Queensland

Boomerang Farm Bike Park, Queensland

Barrington bike park, new south wales.

• Greenvalleys Bike Park, New South Wales

Season dates: November 18 – April 28 Shuttles: One day lift pass from $89 Bike Hire: Downhill $179, Enduro $169, XC $79 Trails: 40km of lifted gravity trails Who does it suit? Gravity fans! What else should I do? Ride the Thredbo Valley Trail

Thredbo is an iconic destination for mountain biking in Australia. Many of Australia’s biggest mountain bike events have been held out of Thredbo Village, and with the Cannonball Festival returning in February 2025, that isn’t about to change. Thredbo added more intermediate gravity trails for last summer, with more lift options opening as well. This has created a whole new zone of trails for less experienced riders who still want the benefit of lift-assisted runs. Of course, the Cannonball DH is still there to test riders, but gravity riding is just one side of mountain biking in Thredbo – you can also start epic backcountry loops from Dead Horse Gap or ride the Thredbo Valley Trail all the way to the Trout Hatchery outside Jindabyne.

There is plenty of accommodation right in Thredbo Village, along with a full-service bike shop. But the real drawcard is the lifts, something that truly sets Thredbo apart from every other bike park in Australia. With a pump track in the village and plenty of mellow trails around the village as well, Thredbo has something for just about every mountain biker.

Check out the newest trails at Thredbo here .

Season dates: November 18 – April 28 Shuttles: With Blue Dirt from $85 Bike Hire: Trail bikes from $110 Trails: 60km of purpose-built trails plus countless backcountry rides Who does it suit? Trail and enduro riders, plus those who want to explore What else should I do? Hire a kayak and visit the lake.

Falls Creek sits apart and above all of Australia’s mountain bike parks. Sitting at 1600m, it is no surprise that the location is home to Australia’s cross-country ski squad in winter . But it also means that in summer you can roll out your door into a descent, onto a climb, or to the shuttle to go to the summit.

Falls Creek’s trails are a network that has expanded over time, with a healthy mix of green and blue trails and an increasing number of trails that let experienced riders push their limits. What Falls also offers is a launching pad for adventure. Whether that is an adventurous family ride along the Aqueduct Trail to some of the historical huts for lunch, or an all-day mission into the backcountry with your riding buddies – you can do it from Falls Creek. Or why not tackle a run down Fainters ? This iconic alpine ride will take you well off into the boonies before delivering you into Big Hill MTB Park at Mount Beauty.

Given the range of riding available, Falls Creek can be a perfect place to visit for families, adventurous riders, or just those who want to do some shuttles and have the options for some big days in the backcountry as well. A lot of what makes Falls Creek special is the setting – the views down the valley and across the rolling ridgelines are incredible, with few settings able to match it for sunsets. Hit the trails and then head back to St Falls for aperitivo as the sun sets on an epic day in the high country – and get set to do it all again the next day.

Check out more on Falls Creek here .

Mount Buller, Victoria

Season dates: November 13 – April 28 Shuttles: $85 or $25 for a single lift Bike Hire: Trail and enduro $120, eMTB $165, XC $60 How many trails: Over 100km of trails from gravity to XC Who does it suit? Just about any keen mountain biker What else should I do? Go for a hike, a run, get a massage, or pack a picnic.

Mt Buller was one of the first Victorian ski villages to really invest in awesome mountain bike trails. Their trail builds from over a decade ago were adopted by the vegetation and terrain with amazing riding experiences from the peaks into the surrounding saddles – and into the valleys below. Times change, and more recently the majority of the network has as well. The trails have been rebuilt to add more flow and speed, revitalizing classic trails and adding a bit more spice to trails like the Alpine Epic Trail , Delatite River Trail , and of course Stonefly .

Mountain biking at Mt Buller is fairly committing and suits riders who are keen to either get out and pedal on some incredible trails or use the shuttle service to do laps in the Gravity Zone, with four dedicated descending trails crossing from intermediate to advanced. There’s a pump track in the village and some beginner trails around the village as well – but most of the riding on offer at Mt Buller is intermediate. There is lots to work up to, and the views and trails are a worthwhile reward if you take on the advanced trails like Stonefly and the Alpine Epic Trail!

With accommodation ranging from budget to mind-blowing, just about anyone should find something to suit their stay. But like other mountain top villages – make sure you’re well-equipped for the incredible sunsets.

Check out more on Mt Buller here .

Mystic Bike Park, Bright Victoria

Season dates: All year Shuttles: Blue Dirt from $85 Bike Hire: $60-150 from Cyclepath , $60-$200 from All Terrain Cycles How many trails? About 92km worth! Who does it suit? Intermediate and advanced trail and enduro riders What else should I do? Sample the pub scene and cafe culture

Bright shouldn’t need too much introduction; it’s somewhere most mountain bikers will stop on a visit to the alpine regions of Victoria. Thanks to Mystic Bike Park , Bright pulls mountain bikers like a magnet. The park has a range of trails, including some beginner trails, but its real strength is the numerous moderate and advanced trails that litter the forest. Some of Australia’s best riders have honed their craft within this bike park – but you’ll see it packed with plenty of riders year-round.

For families, there is plenty to ride along the river as well, and options to hire bikes, cruisers, or e-bikes for gentler adventures. Bright has tonnes of accommodation, but it is quick to fill up around the holidays, so make sure you take the time to plan your stay.

As a valley town, Bright has all the conveniences you could want with full-service bike shops, major supermarkets, and plenty of places to eat and drink. It’s one of the best hubs to base out of for a mountain bike holiday.

Season dates: All year Shuttles: Dynamic Motivation from $70 Bike Hire: Cycle City from $160 (weekends only) How many trails? Well over 50km Who does it suit? Everyone! What else should I do? Spend time in Canberra

Born from terrible fires two decades ago, Stromlo Forest Park has gone from strength to strength with an ever-widening variety of trails and services. Having hosted a World Cup and World Championship event, the trails cater to advanced riders, but they really have something for everyone. There is a truly diverse network of trails at Mt Stromlo Forest Park , from easy gradients on the climbs and descents to fast jump lines like those found on Vapour Trail . There are dirt jumps, skills parks, and a pump track right next to The Handlebar. The park also has trails for cross-country running, equestrian riders, and of course a criterium track. There’s plenty of shelter, parking, toilets, and showers as well. Some may think of a visit to Canberra as being pretty vanilla, but pack your bike as well, and you’ll be sure to have a lot of fun – just avoid the peak heat of the day in summer.

Season dates: December to April Shuttles: More info Bike Hire: eMTB $129, Hardtail $55 How many trails? Over 15km Who does it suit? Gravity riders and beginners What else should I do? Go for a run, a hike, or learn about frogs!

The alpine resort has a small network of beginner and intermediate trails from the village, which are perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the area. It’s a wondrous experience, especially with clouds rolling in, and with bikes available for hire, it’s a nice spot to introduce friends or family to riding in the bush.

However, the two gravity trails are very demanding. Both AM1 and DH1 are off-limits to the hire bikes, instead being known for challenging some of the best riders in Victoria during their downhill racing series. From the wall rides to the steep chutes and chunky sections, both trails will keep riders alert, especially as their nature changes through the season. Mt Baw Baw has some accommodation and a restaurant in the village, but it is worth booking ahead if you want to make a weekend of it.

Check out more on Mt Baw Baw .

Big Hill MTB Park , Victoria

Make no mistake, Big Hill MTB Park in Mt Beauty is well worth a visit. There are over 40km of trails and a pump track in town. There are great places to stay and best of all, you will be able to ride to the trails as well. There is no private shuttle service, but you can self-shuttle – or ride up the hill. It makes you strong!

Maydena Bike Park , Tasmania

Season dates: September-June Shuttles: From $95 for 1 day Bike Hire: Hardtail $85, Enduro $155, DH $165, eMTB $185 How many trails? Heaps. Over 85 trails and 820m of vert Who does it suit? Gravity riders, but anyone will have fun. What else should I do? Visit Mt Field National Park or the Styx Valley

Maydena Bike Park is an international-level gravity mountain bike park that just happens to be in Australia. The bike park sits on the edge of the wilderness, about 1.5 hours out of Hobart, Tasmania. While this part of Tasmania isn’t really close to anything – that is a big part of what makes Maydena what it is. With 820m of drop to play with and three distinct zones to ride in, few other places would be able to support a mountain bike park in the same way.

This bike park is a ground-up build catering specifically for mountain bikers. All the trails have been created with a single purpose – to shred. While the black diamond trails, pro lines, and jump lines may grab the limelight, Maydena Bike Park has a plethora of beginner and intermediate trails and skills coaching so you can progress. The shuttles run to the top of the hill, but you can also do midline shuttles or even buy a mountain pass if you plan to use the climbing trails to access the midline trails. Our tip would be to check this out if you stay for a few days, as the zone in the middle of the hill has a great mix of trails and different dirt types.

Maydena really is about gravity, and they host a range of events throughout the year, including Red Bull Hardline last February, part of a multi-day mountain bike festival in late summer. With a pump track right at the amenities building, a wide variety of hire bikes, food, and a licensed bar, Maydena Bike Park is a one-stop shop for a dream bike trip. Accommodation right in town can be limited in peak periods, so book ahead so you’re an easy roll to the trails.

Check out more on Maydena here .

Season dates: All year – some trails close in winter Shuttles: Yes, via Vertigo MTB , Mad MTB, MTB Express, and more. Bike Hire: Multiple options from Vertigo MTB, Evolution , Big Mountain, and more. How many trails: In excess of 85km. Who does it suit? Everyone. What else should I do? Visit St Helens, take a sauna at the floating sauna

If you haven’t been to Blue Derby , chances are you are finding a reason to go. Few places offer the variety of trails, number of trails, accommodation options, and riding types like Derby does. It didn’t happen overnight, but when the first 25km opened in early 2015 , it was clear something special was coming. The trail network has only grown since then, with connected trails running from Branxholm all the way to St Helens, which has its own network of trails near the beach.

The range of trails and amenities on offer at Blue Derby means just about anyone will be happy. There are flowing blue trails, a green loop around the lake, and a massive pump track to keep kids of all sizes and ages entertained. There are demanding trails as well, including those used in the Enduro World Cup earlier in 2023. You can access these via a shuttle or pedal up on singletrack. Derby is a great place for an eMTB, and there are plenty of options to hire one.

If you want to ride further afield, then Atlas is a long descent and it can be accessed via a forest road climb or a shuttle. The Blue Tier is an iconic route that brings you back to Weldbrough pub – or from the same drop point, you can tackle the Bay of Fires Trail that takes you all the way to Swimcart Beach! There’s even a fun connecting trail between Derby and Branxholm if you’d rather stay in a town with a supermarket.

With camping along the river and lots of short-stay accommodation from basic to boujee , there’s something for almost everyone at Blue Derby. It doesn’t have the impact of some bike parks sitting at the foot of a big hill or on the peak – but the riding is some of the best in the world.

Nannup Tank 7 Mountain Bike Park, Western Australia

Season dates: All year Shuttles: From $50 Bike Hire: eMTB $105, Trail $65 via Three Tanks How many trails? 35Km of trails Who does it suit? Enduro riders and trail riders alike. What else should I do? Visit Margaret River for the trails, wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

With a trail network managed by the Shire of Nannup , these trails are a public mountain bike park served by the Three Tanks bike shop and a couple of shuttle operators. Far from being shuttle-only, there are a few loops you can do on blue trails, but this is a Three Chillies trail design – you should expect some jumps!

If you’re looking for some demanding trails, then Nannup will provide with a double-black trail called Man vs Machine, throwing plenty of features at you from step-downs, big gaps, and double rock drops. Advanced riders will love it. There is a mix of natural on-the-ground rocky technical trails and big machine-built hits – all in the pine plantation with roots thrown in to keep things spicy in the wet. This is a must-ride on a visit to Western Australia.

Check out our Western Australia road trip here .

Linga Longa Bike Park , Western Australia

Season dates: All year but limited openings Shuttles: From $80 Bike Hire: NA Who does it suit? Gravity and trail riders What else should I do? Fit in a trip to Pemberton or Nannup on your visit.

Linga Longa is on private property and only open on gravity days, so plan ahead and book your passes if you want to visit. With about 200m of elevation to play with, you can use a climbing trail or book the shuttle.

There has been active forestry recently, so some trails have changed with scope for more trails – but what’s there is a mix of fast lines with big features plus tighter trails in the rocks and steep slopes – it’s a real mix. There’s enough to keep both enduro lords and trail riders entertained. The food onsite is worth earning on the trails! Linga Longa is a popular stop for the WA Gravity Enduro Series, and with the variety of trails on offer, that is no surprise.

Check out more on Linga Longa Bike Park here .

Finch Hatton MTB, Queensland

Season dates: All year round Shuttles: $35 for 3 shuttles Bike Hire: Corry Cycles offers standard MTB and eMTB hires Who does it suit? Gravity and trail riders What else should I do? Go for a hike and check out Eungella

If you’re from a southern state, chances are your mental image of Queensland’s mountain bike trails features a pocket in the south east, then tumbleweeds, then Cairns. The reality, however, is that like the rest of Australia small towns are starting to wise up to mountain biking’s tourism appeal. Enter Finch Hatton, west of Mackay a trail network (and definitely not a small bird in a bowler hat) that has been described by trail connoisseurs as in the “top three mainland trail networks in Australia”. That’s big kudos from a reformed  Maydena  park rat.

While it’s not a central destination—getting to the trails is a 55 minute drive from Mackay airport—it’s certainly one to remember. In its current state, the World Trail designed network has developed the trail network reaching 250m elevation, with views to expand the network during stage two, up to a massive 650m. There are currently 16 trails open; 7 green, 6 blue and 3 black trails that prioritise flow time and airtime. Stage two features a whopping 82km of flow and gravity trails, as well as a 40km wilderness trail from nearby town of Eungella to Finch Hatton.

But what does it ride like? If epic-scale flow and airtime are your thing, you’re going to have a hoot. A range of trails from green-rated family friendly trails to full-commitment gaps throughout the black diamond trails means that there are trails for everyone. The most advanced rider can have a blast on the easier trails by pumping up the airtime with optional lines and sends, while newer riders have scope to progress their air time on the blue and black terrain. While stage one is wholly flow, stage two will feature more gravity tech trails for the rock garden lovers among us.

Check out more on Finch Hatton here .

Close to the beach while still offering big lines, shuttles, and a climbing trail, Boomerang is a must-ride when visiting south-east Queensland.

Check out more on Boomerang Farm Bike Park here .

In the hinterland, this new private gravity park is proving popular for the region – there is a campground at Barrington Bike Park to make a weekend of it.

Greenvalleys Bike Park New South Wales

Chock full of features and with plenty of built options for progression, Greenvalleys is a popular spot on the event scene and for budding freeriders all just south of Sydney.

The best mountain bike parks in Australia?

Australia has some great mountain bike parks, we’ve shared our favourites, however the best trails can simply be the ones at your local or in your city that are easy to access and bring a smile to your face.

We’ve included many links throughout this article to help you find more relevant information about each of the mountain bike parks, be sure to check these out before your book your next trip!

• big hill mtb park
• falls creek
• linga longa
• mountain bike park guide
• mountain bike parks australia

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Cycling tours

No big bus windows. No phone screen. No maps, walls or guidebooks. Just your wheels, the wind and the open road. That’s how we roll.

From pedalling through peaceful villages in  Vietnam  and  Japan  to cruising down epic, ever-changing landscapes in  Jordan  and  Tanzania , our cycling tours allow you to really immerse yourself in a place and not just travel through it. Powered by nothing but your legs (and maybe a slice of biscotti and a couple of extra-strong cafés au lait), there’s a nice simplicity to cycling as well as plenty of adventures waiting for you off the saddle. Intrepid style cycling isn’t the Tour de France – you don’t get prizes for coming first and the lycra bodysuits are definitely optional – but we promise it’s a totally unique way to experience the world.

On most of our trips we use hardtail mountain bikes armed with front suspension. Depending on the country, we’ll use a mix of makes and models like Giant Talon and Trek X Caliber 5, but they’re pretty similar when it comes to form and function. Our bikes are serviced regularly by local experts who know their stuff, and any pesky broken chains or flat tyres can be fixed in a jiffy. You can usually bring your own bike, too (check our FAQs for the logistical info).

Riding a bike is good for you (even factoring in the odd gelato or Tuscan cellar door pitstop). But it’s also good for the environment. Like all our trips, our cycling tours are 100% carbon offset. Most of the transport is powered by the greenest energy of all: yours. We’ve been certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid, you’re travelling to improve the planet.

There’s something special about Intrepid travellers. You travel differently; you travel with purpose; you seek to leave a positive impact and give back to the people and places you visit. By travelling on an Intrepid cycling trip, you’ll directly support our  Intrepid Foundation cycling partner, World Bicycle Relief . Donations provide school children, health workers and farmers in rural low-income communities with durable bicycles, research and mechanics training.

We run risk assessments on all our cycling trips and our leaders are specially trained to run cycling adventures, so you can rest assured you’re well taken care of. Our leaders are also trained in basic first aid, and we’ve got a support vehicle that follows the group in case of injury, inclement weather, unexpected and hazardous road conditions, or if you’d like to give your legs a rest.

The beauty of small group travel means our groups are small enough to allow you to ride at your own pace, but big enough to connect with others and create a good social vibe. Our maximum group size is 12 people, which we’ve found is a great number to let you get to know your fellow cyclists and also benefit from your leader’s knowledge and experience.

We think the best folks to show you around the heart of a destination is someone who lives there. That's why we work exclusively with local cycling leaders, which means you’ll really get to know the places you’ll be visiting. Our leaders are not just cycling enthusiasts, they’re also your travel guru, teacher and enthusiastic purveyor of local experiences.

Our local leaders are all cycling junkies, but they go through some pretty rigorous training before being allowed behind the handlebars of an Intrepid cycling tour. Each leader has undergone on-road supervision and knows how to do safety checks, basic repairs and emergency first-aid. But they’re still regular Intrepid leaders, which means they know the best local bars, cafes and hidden spots (not to mention handling all the logistical stuff). You just focus on the ride.  

One of my favourite trips is  Cycle Tuscany . We ride from the Apuan Alps down to the coast, followed by a dip in the Mediterranean and a picnic of fresh focaccia and tomatoes. We continue through rural villages, protected wildlife parks and sandy beaches all the way to the medieval jewel of the walled city of Lucca – and that's just in one day. Top tip for an Intrepid cycling trip: bring patience, an open heart and an open mind. Oh, and trust your legs!

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Cycle Croatia

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What’s the range of cycling tours available?

Our cycling tours span the gamut of two-wheeled challenges: from a leisurely ride through Vietnam to cycling across landscapes of Cuba. Some of these trips include cycling as just one of a number of active adventures, others are more cycling focussed (ie. You’ll be riding almost every day).

Should I bring my own bike on a cycling trip?

To take the hassle out of preparing for your trip, we've included bike hire on all our dedicated cycling tours. Alternatively, you can bring your trusty bike from home. If you're bringing your own bike, make sure you let us know when booking so we can make sure your bike is appropriate for that particular tour. As always, check your Essential Trip Information. 

Bringing your own bike  – If you are a dedicated cyclist or just want to take your bike on a holiday, you can usually bring it along for the ride. You’ll need to box it up for transport on the plane.

The easiest way to do this is to go to your local bike shop and ask if they will do it for you (a fee may apply). They often have boxes on hand from old stock and have the tools to remove the pedals and secure your handlebars.

Airline fees will also apply, so check with your airline about costs. It's worth remembering not all trips will be able to accommodate your own bike, so let us know what you're planning at the time of booking. 

Hiring a bike  – The bikes we use are from proven brands, very well maintained, typically less than 3 years old (most are newer) and specifically chosen to suit the terrain you'll be cycling on the trip. They come in a full range of sizes from extra small to extra large and usually have front suspension, flat bars, and 27 gears.

The only thing you need to do is advise us of your height at the time of booking. We’ll handle the rest. If you'd like, you can always bring your own saddle (seat) or gel over-cover for comfort. If you want to use cleats, bring your pedals and shoes, too. 

How do I fly with my bike?

All airlines will have their own rules and fees when transporting bikes. Make sure you contact the airline (preferably) before you pay for your flights to see what charges and requirements they have.

Before you depart, you must box your bike for transport. See our section ‘taking your own bike vs. hiring one’ for more information.

What do I have to carry while I ride?

On all of our cycling tours your accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage is transferred from one point to the next. All you have to carry is water, any snacks or gadgets you may want and a few layers to keep you dry and warm. A small, lightweight backpack may come in handy.

Do I need to pack anything special?

Helmets are compulsory on our cycling tours, so you can either bring your own or (to save on luggage space) buy one at a local bike shop once you arrive in-country. We also recommend you bring your own water bottle/hydration pack and closed shoes. You may also wish to bring Cycling shorts and (if you ride regularly at home) your own saddle and pedals. Many of our clients who do not ride regularly find a gel seat cover helpful in making the ride more comfortable. For more info on packing, check out the What to Pack section of your Essential Trip Information.

How fit do I need to be to do a cycling tour?

All you need to enjoy our cycling trips is the ability to ride a bicycle and a passion for seeing a destination on two wheels. That’s about it.

While there are occasionally longer days on some itineraries, the vast majority of our cycling days are between 30-60 kms and are done at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery or just take a break. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness will get by with no trouble. Be sure to check the physical rating and description in the Essential Trip Information to make sure the trip suits your fitness level and skills.

Our cycling trips are done predominantly on sealed roads (with the odd unsealed section), but none of the trips require any specialist cycling skills. We’ve also researched extra riding routes in each of the destinations we visit, so if you want to stretch your legs a bit more, you can.

My partner is fitter than me, should I still book this trip?

To make our trips more accessible for cyclists of varying fitness levels and skills, most of our trips will have a support vehicle that follows the group. You can jump into the support vehicle any time you feel like taking a short (or long) break from riding. Many of our cycling trips also include the option to use an e-bike, an electric motor-assisted bike that’ll get you up any hill or allow you to zip along the flats with minimum effort.

What sort of safety precautions do you take?

We run risk assessments on each and every one of our cycling trips to make sure they’re up to scratch and your cycling leaders have personally ridden every inch of the itinerary in advance. We’ve assessed the road conditions, the level of traffic and any potential blackspots.

Our leaders are trained in cycling health and safety, as well as basic first aid, and we usually have a vehicle following us if an evacuation ever becomes necessary. We’ve also made sure our cycling tours depart during the milder months when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold, so the ride should be as pleasant (and safe) as possible. 

Do I need special insurance for a cycling trip?

Not as a rule. Any injuries you might suffer while riding should be covered by the more reputable comprehensive policies (we can recommend some good brands if you’re unsure of what to get). It’s always important to double-check the fine print before departing on your trip and be aware that, like all Intrepid trips, travel insurance is compulsory on our cycling itineraries.

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The lap of Australia – Lachlan Morton to start 14,200km record chase on September 5

EF Education-EasyPost rider targets 35 day circumnavigation of Australia

Lachlan Morton's winning effort at Unbound Gravel was around 320km long but his next big challenge, chasing the record for the fastest time around Australia, means he'll have to ride even further every single day for more than a month.

On Thursday the EF Education-Easypost rider plans to set out from his home town of Port Macquarie and ride around 400 kilometres each day so he can complete the 14,200 kilometres journey around Australia in about 35 days. The current cycling record – set in 2011 by Queenslander Dave Alley – is 37 days, 20 hours and 45 minutes for a distance of 14,251km.

Morton's attempt will be supported, with family and friends following behind in a camper to keep him well fed and provide a mobile rest stop as he tracks counter-clockwise around Australia.

"I've been able to have a lot of really amazing experiences doing long bike rides, but being able to share that with a group of people I'm very close with will be very special," said the rider who has taken on adventures ranging from Thereabouts, through to the Alt Tour and last year's fast effort along the Tour Divide route . 

"There will be less to think about besides just continuing to push and push and push."

Morton will first be heading north to Brisbane and Townsville before cutting inland into more sparsely populated areas until Darwin and after that it is a long and remote journey through Western Australia. He will hit the halfway mark on the road from Port Headland to Karratha and then after heading south for another 1,500km, Morton will hit the Western Australian capital of Perth, skirting by Kings Park where the Australian Road Championships will be held in 2025.

Heading down as far as Albany – one of the mandatory checkpoint locations for a record – Morton will then work his way across the Nullarbor Plain to South Australia and Adelaide before continuing his journey back to the more heavily populated east of the nation. 

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After the stretch from Melbourne to Sydney he'll complete the journey and more than 14,000km of riding across across a diverse mix of roads and landscapes when he heads back into Port Macquarie via Pacific Drive and finishes the journey where it all started.

It's not the first time Morton has taken on a big adventure in Australia, though the scale of the latest is a significant step up as "by far the biggest bike ride I've ever done", with Morton going on the 2,500km journey into the heart of the nation when he headed to Uluru with brother Angus in 2013, an experience they documented in the first film of the Thereabouts series.

"Through experiences like that you realise that you don't know all of Australia," said Morton. 

"Australia is big. There are all these amazing people who live out in remote areas who you won´t cross paths with unless you go out on a big trip like this.”

The making of a record

There is a long history to the lap of Australia record, with the Road Record Association of Australia outlining that Arthur Richardson started the attempts rolling in 1899 when he set out from Perth. He returned 245 days later, only to have his mark beaten just weeks down the track when Donald McKay completed the journey in two days less.

Over the years the record has dropped in fits and starts, falling below 100 days in 1985 and then to the current mark of 37 days, 20 hours and 45 minutes – or an average of 377km a day – when Alley claimed the around Australia cycling record in 2011 before also going on to claim the run record in 2015, although that has since been topped. Initially the cycling records varied in length, with distances ranging from 14,100km to 18,000km, though a formal structure was put in place in 1996, with the minimum distance set out as 14,200km and there were also a series of mandatory checkpoints around the coast. These, according to the Guinness World Records, are Perth, Bunbury, Albany, Eucla, Port Augusta, Adelaide, Geelong, Melbourne, Bairnsdale, Wollongong, Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Rockhampton, Townsville, Darwin and Geraldton.

As Morton crosses through these locations during the warming conditions of the southern hemisphere spring he will also be raising money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, a group that helps children in remote Australian communities access stories and books, especially those in their native languages.

“Any cause that supports children in rural communities is super important,” Morton said. “People in remote Australia face a lot of unique challenges and don't always have the amount of support they need. Being able to contribute something to the communities that we are going to ride through is important to me," said Morton. You can follow Morton's journey via the live tracking page , and donate via Morton's Indigenous Literacy Foundation fundraising page .

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Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined Cyclingnews as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at Ella CyclingTips and as a correspondent for Reuters and Bloomberg . Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.

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