This morning you will need to make your own way to Mansfield, due to logistics you will need to arrive by 11am. The easiest way to do this is to take the bus from Melbourne. Mansfield is nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps and surrounded by grazing land and mountain forests. The city has a number of interesting historical buildings dating back to its time as a stock route camp and gold mining town. Once in Mansfield you will meet with our bike provider who will conduct a specialised bike fitting and provide you with your bike, helmet and pannier. They will also collect your luggage and transfer it to your next hotel. Your journey starts with a nice easy ride into Bonnie Doon today. We stay on the east side of the lake, but if you want to visit the centre of town today you will cross the impressive 385 metre bridge over Lake Eildon. Bonnie Doon was immortalised in the hilarious Australian classic movie "The Castle". This afternoon you can explore and feel the serenity for yourself! Overnight in Bonnie Doon. Cycling distance: 21km, ascent: 105m, descent: 141m *We can book a pre-night of accommodation in Mansfield if you would like to arrive the day before the trip starts. Ask our staff for details.

Meals:  Nil

Today you set off through farming country, cycling past rock outcrops, livestock and open farmlands. You will pass by the Merton service-station, where you may wish to get a cold drink or ice-cream before the gentle ascent to Merton Gap. This is the highest point on the trail, and the spectacular views from the top are well worth the climb. From here it's a nice, long gentle descent all the way to Yarck, where you can stop for a lunch break. Continuing the ride there is one more gentle climb before you head into the scenic country town of Alexandra which recently celebrated it's 150 year anniversary. We recommend visiting Grant Street Grocer (100 Grant Street) if you're after a well deserved treat, or there are a number of pubs worth a visit. Overnight in Alexandra. Cycling distance: 58km, ascent: 348m, descent: 429m

Meals:  Nil

Today you head to the historic and thriving town of Yea. This area is rich pastoral and dairying area with the Yea River flowing around the town. There are a couple of small climbs this morning out of Alexandra for which you are rewarded at Eglington Gap, which has outstanding views back over Alexandra and the hinterland. From here you have a nice long gentle descent to Molesworth. Further along you will come to the 201 metre long Cheviote Tunnel, the longest trail tunnel in Victoria. It was made from 675,000 bricks which were handcrafted on site with local clay in 1889. The town has many historical buildings from the 19th century in good condition and worth a visit. Dinner is recommended in the Peppercorn Hotel (Thursday-Sunday only) or at the Royal Mail Hotel (7 days). Overnight in Yea. Cycling distance: 37km, ascent: 279m, descent: 320m

Meals:  Nil

For your final day of cycling you may wish to fuel up at Marmalades Café, which serves great breakfasts and coffees. Today you will ride next to the heritage-classified Goulburn River, passing through the Trawool valley. This is a region which was painted by many of the famous Australian painters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, in particular Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton and Frederick McCubbin. Towards the end of the route there are particularly fine views, and it is worthy of a stop to enjoy the beautiful Goulburn River. You will ride into the quiet town of Tallarook, nestled at the foot of the magnificent Tallarook Ranges. A great place to get a celebratory coffee for your last day is Tallarook General Store, or you may prefer a cold drink at the Tallarook Hotel (closed Monday and Tuesday). The trip ends on your arrival in Tallarook. Here you can leave your bike for collection, pick up your luggage and catch the train back to Melbourne. Alternatively we can organise a return transfer to Mansfield (included in the trip cost). Cycling distance: 39km, ascent: 285m, descent: 282m

Meals:  Nil