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Great East Gippsland Rail Trail Self Guided Cycle

Cycle both the East Gippsland Rail Trail and the Gippsland Discovery Trail

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10 Epic Australian Cycling DestinationsSee the list

Introductory to Moderate

Activities

4 days self guided cycle

Accommodation

5 nights hotel/inn accommodation

Price

6 daysfrom

$2380AUD

View Inclusions

Trip Code: GET

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Great East Rail Trail Cycle Trip highlights

Enjoy the independence of self-guided cycling with all logistics taken care of for you
Hassle-free cycling on the dedicated cycle path on the East Gippsland Rail Trail
Cycle through rainforest, farmland, and across historic timber railway bridges
Sample the excellent local foods and wines of East Victoria
Take a superb side trip to Lakes Entrance

This itinerary combines both the East Gippsland Rail Trail and the popular side trip, The Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, giving you ample opportunity to take in the varied scenery and history of the stunning East Gippsland region.

On the East Gippsland Rail Trail you cycle through undulating farmland and temperature rainforest, along winding rivers, and across historic timber railway bridges. The Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail takes you down to Lakes Entrance, following a trail through forest, past a historic quarry, then follows a creekside tramway alignment. There are ample opportunities to stop in the many towns along the trail, where you can sample fresh berries, enjoy home baked bread, sample micro brewed beer, or an award-winning Chardonnay.

With the ease of our luggage transfer service, an app to guide you each day and your accommodation all taken care of, this cycle journey opens up a whole new way to appreciate the natural beauty and local produce of this special corner of regional Victoria.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Arrive in Orbost, 1pm transfer to Bairnsdale

Today you will make your own way to Orbost. Please ensure you arrive in time to join the 1pm transfer to Bairnsdale. The drive will take just over one hour. When you arrive in Bairnsdale you will check in to your accommodation for tonight. You are then free to explore the town. You can visit the East Gippsland Art Gallery, walk down to the Mitchell River, or sample some of the local produce. Overnight in Bairnsdale.

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Cycle to Bruthen (31km)

Today is your first cycle day, and you will enjoy lake and bushland views for most of the day. The 8km section to Nicholson is asphalt and features a restored timber and steel trestle bridge over the Nicholson River. You can take a side trip to Nicholson River Winery (4km return) which is highly recommended. Continue on to Bruthen, where the rest of the trail for today is on hard-packed gravel. Bruthen is a scenic town and you can enjoy a late lunch or afternoon drink at Bullant Brewery, taking in the riverside views from their deck. Overnight Bruthen. Cycling distance: 31km, ascent: 178m, descent -166m

Meals: B

Day 3
Cycle via the Discovery Trail to Lakes Entrance (25km)

After breakfast this morning it's back in the saddle where today you join the side trip on the Gippsland Lakes Discover Trail. This trail connects the Gippslands Lakes with the East Gippsland Rail Trail. A significant length of the trail follows an old tramway alongside the Mississippi Creek. You'll spend much of today cycling through bush, spotting goannas and listening to bird calls. The area is home to lyrebirds, wombats, wallabies and possums, so be sure to keep an eye out. You'll spend the night on the coast, at Lakes Entrance. Overnight: Lakes Entrance. Cycling distance: 25km, ascent: 166m, descent: -124m

Meals: B,D

Day 4
Continue on the rail trail to Tostaree (36km)

Today you cycle back towards the East Gippsland Rail Trail, heading towards Tostaree. Much of the cycling today will be on hard packed gravel, heading through bushland. Enjoy the tranquility this evening when you check in to your rustic farmstay accommodation. You will stay in a cottage and be looked after by your friendly hosts who will cook you up a tasty dinner tonight. Overnight: Tostaree. Cycling distance: 36km, ascent: 257m, descent -277m

Meals: B,D

Day 5
Cycle to Orbost (30km)

It's back on the bike for your final day on the rail trail. Today's ride is shaded and you will cross over three major wooden trestle bridges. The trail surface today is fine compacted gravel which is easily managed, but you will need some strength in the legs as there are a few steep sections. The rail trail ends at Newmerella, but continues 2km to end at Orbost via a shared pathway that begins at Burn Road. The route today doesn't pass through any towns or villages so make sure you pack a lunch and plenty of water! Overnight: Orbost. Cycling distance: 30km, ascent: 174m, descent -202m

Meals: B

Day 6
Trip concludes

The trip concludes this morning in Orbost.

Meals: Nil

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

5 nights accommodation in hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with private facilities
4 breakfasts and 2 dinners
Electric bicycle hire including a helmet and pannier (hybrid bikes can be hired for a discount)
Luggage transfers, maximum weight is 12kg per person
Route notes & maps available to download and use on your phone through our navigation app
GPS information
Early afternoon transfer from Orbost to Bairnsdale on day 1

What's not included

Travel to/from Orbost
Accommodation before or after the trip
Travel insurance
Meals not noted as included
Phone handlebar mount

Bike information

Electric Bike

Electric Bikes are provided on this trip. The Electric Bikes are available in a range of sizes. Pannier and helmet hire is also included.

Hybrid Bike

For a small discount we can provide high quality hybrid bikes. The bikes are available in a range of sizes, and are suited to the terrain. Pannier and helmet hire is also included.

Trail Surface

Cycle Path

The route is on the East Gippsland Rail Trail. The Rail Trail path is shared between walkers and horse riders, but is free from road traffic. The rail trail occasionally crosses the highway or quiet roads. You will cycle on roads in and out of the towns where we stay, but this is only for short distances each day. The trail surface is made up of either compacted gravel, fine gravel, compacted earth, and some sealed sections. The trail is best suited to mountain, hybrid or touring bikes - we provide electric bikes suited to the terrain.

Accommodation

Comfortable Accommodation

You’ll spend 5 nights in clean and comfortable accommodation. You will stay in a range of accommodations, including a boutique hotel, motel style accommodation, and one night at a rustic farmstay style cottage. The rooms are spacious, clean, double/twin rooms, which have ensuite facilities. The hotels are generally well located, close to town and the bike path.

Check in is usually at 2pm. If you arrive earlier than 2pm you may not be able to check in to your room early.

Grading

Introductory to Moderate
4

This self guided trip involves 4 days of undulating, well maintained cycling trails. Daily cycling distance varies from 25km to 36km. The Rail Trail is mostly gentle, with a few longer ascents that on completion you are rewarded with stunning views. The Rail Trail path is shared between walkers and horse riders, but is free from road traffic. The rail trail occasionally crosses the highway or quiet roads. You will cycle on roads in and out of the towns where we stay, but this is only for short distances each day. The trail surface is made up of either compacted gravel, fine gravel, compacted earth, and some sealed sections. The trail is best suited to mountain, hybrid or touring bikes - we provide electric bikes suited to the terrain.

Departure dates

Daily departures

Notes

DN1

If you are travelling over a National Public Holiday a small supplement will apply, this covers the additional surcharge for your luggage transfer on the day. Please speak with our staff for price details.

DN2

Please note, when we book your accommodation some hotels may request a deposit/full payment to secure your booking. This amount will be payable, in addition to the Australian Cycle Tours deposit. Any extra payments, along with the $400 AUD deposit, are non-refundable.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events or just tailoring a trip to suit your own needs - learn how you can tailor your own Customised Tour.

Priceper person from

$2380AUD

Options & Supplements*

*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Great East Gippsland Rail Trail Self Guided Cycle trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

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?How do I get to Orbost?

Orbost is about 370km from Melbourne, or about a 4.5 hour drive. From Canberra it is about a 4 hour drive. If you're coming from Sydney the drive will take around 7 hours. You can reach Orbost by train and V-Line bus from Melbourne. Depending on connections the journey time is around 6 hours.

?What time do I need to arrive in Orbost?

If you arriving in Orbost on day 1 you will need to arrive in time for the 1pm transfer to Bairnsdale. We suggest arriving around midday. You can leave your car in Orbost as you will return here at the end of the trip.

?Can I book a night of pre-tour accommodation in Orbost?

Yes, you can. We are happy to assist with this or you can book your own accommodation in town.

?Do I need to be a capable cyclist?

Yes, you need to be a capable cyclist. You will cover up to 36km in a day. Most of the cycling is along the dedicated cycle path, and you will only need to cycle on the road while you are in town for meals or getting to your accommodation.

?Can I bring my own bike?

Yes, you can use your own bike if you prefer. Let us know at the time of booking and a small discount will be applied. If you are electing to bring your own bike, it is important that you have a bike fit for purpose.

Great East Rail Trail Cycle Trip reviews

Why cycle with us

SELF GUIDED EXPERTS

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.

TRUSTED LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about cycling 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.

Quality services

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.

Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.