Image: Scott Christian
This is Sponsored Content from Destination NSW
New South Wales is great to explore on two-wheels, and Spring is the perfect time to take the family away for a cycling weekend in New South Wales.
Cruise The Coast
Image: Dee Kramer
Illawarra Coast
Almost 70km south of Sydney, the Family Pacific Cycle Tour is a 64km route that can be tackled over two or three days. The tour starts in the beachside town of Thirroul and finishes in Kiama. The route takes in flat bike paths and residential roads, with a few gentle hills.
Along the way, you can reward yourself with a dip in the ocean or at Shellharbour Ocean Pool. If you would prefer a guided tour Australian Cycling Holidays offer a package including bike hire and roadside assistance.
Byron Bay by Bike
Image: James Horan
Byron Bay is a buzzing town on the NSW North Coast, and is the perfect escape for a cycling holiday. Riding a bike is the best way to get around and take in the atmosphere and there are also a number of options to explore the natural attractions off-road or on dedicated cycle paths.
Grab a map instore from Surf & Bike Hire Byron and take to the Tour de Bruns trail starting at Brunswick Heads Visitor Centre, just north of Byron. The flat, leisurely terrain will take you through the village and along Brunswick River to Torakina beach.
Cycle the Wine Region
Image: Destination NSW
Hunter Valley Vino-Velo
If you’re a fan of cycling and wine, the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, is the perfect place to enjoy exceptional wine and gourmet food on two wheels. A bicycle is a great way to explore the Hunter Valley at a relaxed pace, cycling along quiet country roads such as Palmers Lane, which links six cellar doors.
Hunter Valley Cycling offer guided tours and bike hire, so it’s as simple as packing the essentials and jumping in the car for the two hour journey.
Mudgee Mecca
Image: Evolving Images; Destination NSW
Venture inland from Sydney for a mini getaway to Mudgee complemented by a cellar door tour by bike. The Tour de Vines offers riders a unique way to sample local wines and explore the Mudgee wine region.
If you prefer to go alone, explore local favourite The Rocky Waterhole Loop. The 25km route passes rolling paddocks and has views across the Mudgee Valley. Alternatively, go off-road with a hybrid mountain bike on some of the dirt roads close to town.
Off-road rides like the Mount Pleasant ride and Strikes Lane are great for families. To make a day of it, cycle through the vineyards to reach Lowe Winery, where you can park up for a well-deserved alfresco lunch.
Southern Highlands Secrets
Image: Destination Southern Highlands
One of New South Wales’ most beautiful regions, the Southern Highlands is known for its lovely gardens, wineries and rolling hills.
Families can coordinate their holiday with The Bowral Classic, a one day Gran Fondo cycling event that offers riders three course options of either 160km, 120km, or 45km. The Bowral Classic attracts a strong cycling community from all over NSW and takes place on Sunday 22 October 2017.
Don’t miss the popular Bong Bong Track. With a mix of on-road, off-road and shared cycle paths that stretch 26km, there is plenty to see along the way.
Cycle Central Coast
Image: Destination NSW
Catch the ferry from Palm Beach to Ettalong to enjoy a weekend of cycling on the Central Coast. Cycle the Ettalong Foreshore from the Ettalong Ferry Wharf to the Peninsula Recreation Precinct at Umina Beach. The multi-level playground is great for all ages.
The Point to Pelicans ride around the spectacular Brisbane Water Cycleway is a 13.5km ride starting at Point Frederick Pioneer Park and includes a mix of on-road, off-road and shared cycle paths. Riders are encouraged to head there early in the morning for amazing sunrise views. You’ll pass wetlands and scenic waterways on the way to Woy Woy which is a perfect spot for lunch.
Image: Destination NSW
This content is sponsored by Destination NSW to promote L’Etape Australia by le Tour de France. L’Étape Australia by le Tour de France is a unique road cycle event that provides an experience for an amateur rider that’s as close to riding in the Tour de France as you can get. Staged on 160km of fully closed roads, and run under professional Tour de France race conditions, the route includes a 350m Sprint section and two challenging King of the Mountain sections.
To learn more about the rides or regions listed above, head to, visitnsw.com for more information.
Disclaimer: Staff of BikeExchange Australia wrote this content with help from Destination NSW
Imagery courtesy of Destination NSW
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