Last updated: 6th February 2019
Living an active life can be more than a jog or cycle around your neighbourhood, and travelling can be more than sitting by the beach sipping on cocktails (although, that's fun too). Active travel is becoming increasingly popular for Australians – and it’s entirely possible to get your fix without even leaving the country.
Known for our vast landscape and gorgeous coastline, Australia is the perfect location for travel lovers and cycling enthusiasts to see and experience more of the land Down Under. We take a look at the best cycling routes and activities to immerse yourself in for your next active holiday.
Western Australia
Margaret River, Western Australia
With both short and long rides (think over 100 km), and some of the best cycling roads in Australia, there’s plenty on offer around the Margaret River region aside from wine. Cyclists and travellers love the routes as they’re completely customisable, the roads are quiet, and you combine the landscape of the forest, farmland, wineries, coastline and towns on your journey.
Tasmania
Mount Wellington, Hobart, Tasmania
Climb your way up Mount Wellington on your bike. Starting at Cascade Brewery in South Hobart and ending when you reach the top of the mountain, this cycle climb reaches 1,271m above sea level and towers over the capital city of Tasmania.
Queensland
Gold Coast Hinterland, Queensland
The Queensland bushland isn’t just known for its awesome winter walks and nature getaways. Just 22 km north from the airport lives the Gold Coast Hinterland National Park – home to incredible trails and expansive roads fit for even the most amateur of cyclists.
New South Wales
Wisemans Ferry, New South Wales
Not too far for Sydneysiders in need of a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Hawkesbury River region is the perfect escape. To get to the start of the trails at Hornsby, it’s about a 40-minute drive from the Sydney CBD.
From Hornsby to Wisemans Ferry – the most northern point of the Hawkesbury – you’ll find quiet country roads covered in green bushland. Spin your wheels around the dirt roads and winding main roads, stopping in for a quick dip and to launch yourself off a rope swing at the many watering holes along the way.
L’Etape Australia, Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Take a trip to New South Wales’ Snowy Mountains outside the ski season for a cyclist’s retreat. From December, the Snowy Monaro Regional Council hosts an influx of race-ready cyclists for a Tour de France-style event. The route begins in the L’Etape Village in Bullocks Flat, Crackenback and ends at the iconic Perisher. The official race is 157 km or you can simply jump on board for a 127 km ride during the event. Register now.
Newcrest Orange Challenge, Orange, New South Wales
Located three-and-a-half hours from Sydney or Canberra, Orange has always had cycling routes loved by locals and travellers alike. Now, they’re making it a challenge. Over 2,000 riders have joined this event since its beginnings in 2016. The event follows the same structure of the European one-day classic (170 km circuit), and starts and finishes in Orange. Find out more.
Sydney to Wollongong, New South Wales
Travel down south to Wollongong for a weekend in style. The course from Sydney down to the beach city of Wollongong is 90 km; it’s no small feat, but the views are stunning. During the spring, many Sydneysiders and travellers take on the epic, scenic ride for charity, raising funds to fight multiple sclerosis.
Australian Capital Territory
Centenary Trail, Canberra, Australia
This bike trail is the perfect excuse to head to Australia’s capital city. There’s so much to see and do in Canberra, the Centenary Trail is just one of many active and cultural activities for travellers to enjoy. Journey on bike or foot on the 145 km loop trail; follow paths in both urban and natural areas with iconic sites and beautiful scenery at every checkpoint.
South Australia
Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia
For a more leisurely cycling getaway, cycle across the Fleurieu Peninsula using the 24 km Encounter Bikeway which follows the iconic coastline of the Great Australian Bite. There are some parts of the route that are more inland, however, most of the journey follows the coast and can be completed within one day – great for a cheeky pitstop at SA’s many wineries.
Santos Tour Down Under, South Australia
Racing more your style? This ride attracts cyclists from all over the world looking for a challenge and a travel experience like no other. Get a sense of what Australia’s cycling scene is really about at this week-long event held in January. Lace up your training shoes and register now.
Whether you’re up for a gentle roll around, a mountain biking adventure or a road race with competition, Australia has you sorted with cycling routes that combine fitness and travel.
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