Stage 1 of the
Santos Tour Down Under is set to hit Australian roads on January 16, so we thought we'd share some of our favourite cycling locations from this beautiful country. The event, which is held in Adelaide in South Australia, runs from January 13 - 21 and is one of Australia’s most popular cycling events, attracting teams and supporters from all corners of the globe. Whether you're a cycling fanatic, weekend rider or just starting out, these Aussie cycling spots have something for everyone.
1. Tasmania - North South Track / Mount Wellington
There's no better way to experience Tasmania than by bike. Located about 30 minutes west of Hobart, the North South Track runs from The Springs in Wellington Park, to the Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park - it's the perfect trail for enthused mountain bike riders. Along this 11km purpose built track, riders will encounter dry-stone walls, logs, jumps, lush rainforest, and if you're lucky, some friendly Aussie wildlife.
Distance: 11km
Difficulty: Moderate
Surface: Mountain bike
2. Victoria - Great Ocean Road
If you're looking for an adventure this is where you'll find it. The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most iconic locations, spanning from Torquay, along the southern coast of Victoria, and then finally finishing in Allansford. Riders can choose and plan their own journey, although if you're keen to ride the entire 243km stretch, it may take you about 4 - 5 days. Among it's most spectacular of views are The Twelve Apostles - a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park. Other notable sights include Aireys Inlet, The Otways, and Apollo Bay.
Distance: 243km
Difficulty: Hard
Surface: Road / Mountain Bike
3. Western Australia - Munda Biddi Trail
The Munda Biddi Trail, which means 'path through the forest' in the Noongar Aboriginal language, spans over 1000km in Western Australia. Riders can choose to complete the entire length over a number of days from Mundaring to Albany, or simply ride a stage of the trail. There are various towns and roads accessible by car nearby, so you can start your ride where ever you please. You won't find a trail as long as this with unspoiled forest and bushland anywhere else in Australia!
Distance: 1060km
Difficulty: Easy - Hard
Surface: Mountain Bike
4. Queensland - Boondall Wetlands
The Boondall Wetlands are just a short 20 minute drive from the city centre in Brisbane and it's sure worth the visit. It doesn't matter what your fitness or riding level is because this ride will accomodate all. Starting at the Boondall Environment Centre, you'll ride through tidal flats, mangroves, forests and some of Brisbane's most beautiful woodlands to then finish at Nudgee Road.
Distance: 16km
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Road / Mountain Bike
5. New South Wales - Narrabeen Lagoon / Lake
Looking for a ride that will suit the whole family? The Narrabeen Lagoon trail is an 8.4km circuit that's bursting with plants and wildlife. There are also various facilities around the lake as well as popular camping grounds.
Distance: 8.4km
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Road / Mountain Bike
6. Northern Territory - Alice Springs
Ask any Australian and they'll tell you that the Northern Territory is the true definition of 'down under'. Located half way between Darwin and Adelaide, there are four main trails in Alice Springs named by the traditional owners: Ilentye, Arrwe, Tyape, Apwelantye. If you don't have a bike then no worries - you can hire a bike or other equipment in town.
Distance: Varying
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Surface: Mountain Bike
7. South Australia - Mount Lofty Summit / Adelaide Hills
Home to the Tour Down Under, Adelaide is a beautiful Australian city that attracts cycling enthusiasts from across the world. The Adelaide Hills span almost 800 square kilometers, providing a playground for cyclists to explore during all months of the year. Most notably, Adelaide's highest peak, Mount Lofty, is a climb that's truly worth the pain.
Distance: Varying
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Surface: Road / Mountain Bike
