Blog | Bike Info, Stories & Advice | Australian Cycle Tours

Ten Epic Australian Cycling Holiday Destinations

Find your next Australian bike trip with these 10 regions that are perfect for cycling.

Southern Highlands | Andrew Bain

Should I Hire an Electric Bike for my Trip?

Are electric bicycles worth it? How do they work? Read our helpful guide on what you need to know about ebikes.

eBike control | Lachlan Gardiner

10 of the Best Sights to Explore in the Southern Highlands

The Southern Highlands Cycle is so much more than just a cycling trip; discover delicious food, wineries, waterfalls, museums and more!

Bike at the Bundanoon Train Station | Kate Baker

Australian Cycling Holidays 2024

Want to do a cycling trip in Australia in 2024? Discover our unforgettable bike tours and experience the real Australia in 2024.

Great Victorian Rail Trail | Kate Baker

Great Victorian Rail Trail vs the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail

Which Rail Trail in Victoria will you cycle? With classic Australian landscapes, divine regional produce, and well-maintained paths - ideally, you pedal both.

Cycling the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail near Bright

Watch: Central West Cycle Trail

While nothing can compare to actually riding the Central West Cycle Trail for yourself, we think our new film gets pretty close!

Cycle the charming streets of Gulgong | Tim Charody

More Inspiration

Cycling the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Northern Rivers, Tweed Valley, Tweed Coast

Watch: The Full Northern Rivers Rail Trail

The fastest way to see the Northern Rivers Rail Trail?

No, not by e-bike; not even on a regular bike that's ridden by Cadel Evans.

It's to watch this GoPro footage that's been shot from the cyclists perspective and fast-forwarded at double speed. You'll see all the sights from the trail and get a helpful look at the diverse Australian scenery and terrain.

Discover Australia by cycling the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Of course, the best way to really see the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is to experience it for yourself. Let Australian Cycle Tours take care of all the necessary logistics, such as accommodation, shuttles and quality bike hire, on your self-guided cycling adventures. Choose from a 3-day itinerary or explore the surrounding Tweed Valley on an immersive 6-day tour.

Watch the Full Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Thanks to the Northern Rivers Rail Trail foundation for pulling this together. You can read their synopsis below.

Join us for a journey along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (24 km Tweed section).

With this GoPro ride, hop on your virtual saddle and embark on a breathtaking visual adventure. Discover the stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and historical wonders that make the Northern Rivers Rail Trail a must-visit destination for cyclists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Spoiler alert! You'll pedal through lush forests, alongside tranquil rivers, and past charming small towns. Our GoPro footage captures the essence of the Rail Trail, showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds every turn.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist seeking, a casual rider or a walker looking for a leisurely exploration, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail offers something for everyone.

Please note: The video is played back at double speed to condense the experience into a 30-minute episode.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a shared recreation and nature trail where users can walk, ride and explore at their own pace. Please follow the safety tips and rules so that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Experience the Northern Rivers Rail Trail on a tour

>> Northern Rivers Rail Trail & Tweed Valley Explorer (6-days, self-guided)

>> Northern Rivers Rail Trail & Tweed Coast Short Break (3-days, self-guided)

Have you ridden the Northern Rivers Rail Trail yet? Let us know in the comment section below.

Discover the 6 tunnels along the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail

Rail Trails, Rail Trails Australia, Rail Trail poem

Poem: The Rail Trail Transformation

At Australian Cycle Tours, it's no secret we love a great rail trail to explore. We wish there were more, and we're forever curious as to why some people are so anti-rail trail.

We decided to create this poem (with the help with ChatGPT). Enjoy! And if you like it, feel free to copy and share on social media.

Family cycling the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

The Rail Trail Transformation

On the outskirts of town where the old tracks lay,
They built a rail trail for bikes and play.
But not everyone cheered this new, shiny path,
Some folks were annoyed, and voiced their wrath.

“Oh, this rail trail nonsense!” Old Man McGee spat,
“Cyclists zoom past like a racing pack of rats!
They whiz by so fast, no time for a ‘hello’,
I miss the old trains with their leisurely flow.”

Mrs. Grumble would grumble, as her name suggests,
"Who needs a trail for these Lycra-clad pests?
They zip through our streets, all helmets and gears,
Gone in a flash, like speedy cavaliers."

The dogs barked louder, the birds flew away,
For the newfangled rail trail ruined their day.
The cyclists with bells, and flashy bike lights,
Old Smith shook his fist, “They’re out day and night!”

But the rail trail stood firm, a path through the green,
Connecting old places, and sights to be seen.
For every frown and grumble, there were smiles by the mile,
For the rail trail had charm, and a kind-hearted style.

Cyclists loved it, their paths long and free,
Riding through towns and past the old tree.
They peddled and coasted, with wind in their hair,
Finding new joys in the fresh, open air.

So while some folks complained and missed the old trains,
The rail trail brought joy through sunshine and rains.
And maybe one day, even Old Man McGee,
Would take a slow ride, and finally see,
That sometimes a change, though it seems a bit pale,
Can brighten the world, like a well-laid rail trail.

Rail Trail Tours

>> Discover fantastic rail trail adventures in Australia

Have you cycled a rail trail before? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Views a plenty as you cycle the Blue Mountains | Andy Mein

Blue Mountains, E-bikes

Blue Mountains: 12 Sights to Discover by Bike

There's a wealth of iconic spots waiting to be explored on a Blue Mountains e-bike adventure.

Here's a rundown of 12 must-see destinations in the upper and central hub of the Blue Mountains, perfect for discovering at your own pace.

1. Cahills Lookout

Cahills Lookout, with its stunning views of the Megalong Valley and the cliffs of Narrow Neck. Watch for rock climbers on Boars Head, where modern Australian rock climbing was pioneered a century ago.

Views into the Megalong Valley from North's Lookout above Nellies Glen | Linda Murden

2. Chase Waterfalls

Katoomba Falls, Leura Cascades, Gordon Falls, Minnehaha Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Wentworth Falls, Empress Falls – water helped carve out the Blue Mountains over millions of years and this place is famed for the waterfalls that gush from the escarpment. Some of these falls are also home to one of the world’s rarest plants – the dwarf mountain pine.

Spectacular Empress Falls in the Blue Mountains | David Hill

3. The Gully

From the 1890s through to the 1950s, The Gully was an Aboriginal community on the outskirts of Katoomba. Today, it is a peaceful and spiritual place with great signage to help you understand more about the Indigenous people of the Blue Mountains.

4. Scenic World

What’s not to love about the world’s steepest railway (52 degrees!) at Scenic World in Katoomba? This breathtaking adventure also lets you explore the mining history of the Blue Mountains as the railway was first built in the 1880s to haul coal and oil shale from the Jamison Valley.

5. Echo Point

Echo Point is the place to take in the majesty of the Jamison Valley, Mount Solitary, the cliffs of Kings Tableland and those towers of sandstone, the Three Sisters.

Cycling in the Blue Mountains | <i>Tim Charody</i>

6. Exotic Gardens

The Blue Mountains are famous for their cold-climate gardens that put on stunning displays of colour in spring and autumn. The heritage-listed Everglades in Leura and Blackheath Rhododendron Garden are favourites.

7. Art Galleries & Centres

The Blue Mountains are blessed to be home to many artists and art galleries that display their work. Lost Bear, Gallery 188 and Falls Gallery are favourites. And don’t miss the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba, which boasts art exhibitions, a library, a café, stunning views, great gifts and a permanent exhibition showcasing the Blue Mountains’ World Heritage values.

8. Short Hikes

Don’t be afraid to lock up your bike and take a short bushwalk. I recommend the Prince Henry Cliff Walk between Leura and Katoomba, Govetts Leap to the Braeside Walk in Blackheath. In my home village of Wentworth Falls, I love the Charles Darwin Walk, the Overcliff/Undercliff Track and the Valley of the Waters Track.

The view of the spectacular Grose Valley from Govetts Leap | Greg Lees

9. Foods & Restaurants

There are plenty of great food and drink options in Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls and Blackheath. Try Mountain Culture for craft beers, Station Bar for pizzas, Basil Nut for modern Asian, Leura Deli for brekkie and gelato, Hominy and Black Cockatoo for bread, the Alexandra Hotel, Family Hotel and Ivanhoe Hotel for pub grub, Champagne Charlie’s in the Carrington Hotel for cocktails, Bakehouse on Wentworth and Bakery Patisserie Schwarz for cakes and pies, Laughing Elephant for bahn mi, Altitude Deli for killer sandwiches of all sorts. Locals are eagerly awaiting the reopening of famed Greek café the Paragon for its chocolates and milkshakes.

10. Where to make a splash

If it’s hot, a swim in Wentworth Falls Lake, Katoomba Pool or Blackheath Pool is a great way to cool down. If it’s cold, Blue Mountains Sauna in Leura is a real treat.

11. Local Parks

Local parks are also a delight to visit to picnic, daydream or read a book. Try Myoori Park in Wentworth Falls, Lone Pine Memorial and Peace Park in Leura, Kingsford Smith Park in Katoomba and Blackheath Soldiers Memorial Park.

12. Carrington Hotel

Much of the tourism development in the upper Blue Mountains took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s and some wonderful architecture remains a legacy of this time. A must-see is the Carrington Hotel, built on the main street of Katoomba in 1882. Another bonus gem is the streetscape of Leura Mall.

Ready to pedal your way around the Blue Mountains? Check out the Blue Mountains Cycle.

Words by Dan Lewis

Cycling in the Blue Mountains | Tim Charody

Blue Mountains, Electric bike, E-bike

Why E-Bike the Blue Mountains

Say goodbye to strenuous uphill climbs and embrace the freedom to explore more ground than ever before with an electric bike (e-bike) adventure in the Blue Mountains.

In this article we extol the amazing benefits of using an e-bike and how they can help you and your cycling friends explore the Blue Mountains of Australia. E-bikes are included on the 3-day Blue Mountains Cycle Adventure, which also includes comfortable accommodation, an immersive itinerary, and covers all logistics. Check it out.

Cycling in the Blue Mountains | Tim Charody

The benefits of hiring an electric bike

Revel in the joy of effortlessly cruising up hills, going further than you ever imagined, and unlocking the full potential of your cycling adventure with an e-bike. Advantages include:

Accessible for various fitness levels: Built with comfort and ease of operation in mind, our e-bikes come with unisex frames, making them suitable for anyone looking to enjoy the ride without physical strain. It's perfect for those new to road cycling or cycling holidays, by giving you the confidence boost needed for a seamless journey.
A great equaliser: If you have joint issues or are recovering from an injury, the added support from an e-bike is gentle on your legs and knees compared to traditional bikes. This makes it a great equaliser when travelling with families or friends with varying strength and stamina levels as it eliminates concerns about keeping up and allows you to focus on quality time together.

Views a plenty as you cycle the Blue Mountains | <i>Chris Mein</i>

Tackle tougher climbs with ease: An electric bike transforms the journey into a more relaxed experience, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings without the physical challenges. Enjoy the extra boost to conquer challenging hills, where the electric assist of an e-bike provides the added power needed to make it to the top effortlessly.
Eco-friendly and efficient: E-bikes offer an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, reducing your carbon footprint. Quick to master, electric bikes make active holidays physically easier without sacrificing the adventurous spirit of the trip.

Cycling through Leura Cascades | Kate Harper

Our high-quality hardtail Merida hybrid e-bikes are equipped with powerful 630Wh batteries, a 10-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring a ride that's as effortless as it is enjoyable.

Experience the Blue Mountains in a new light, where the power of e-bikes brings people of all fitness levels together for an unforgettable journey amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Ready to embark on a cycling adventure in the Blue Mountains that lets you dictate the pace and direction of your journey? Leave the crowds behind and discover hidden gems with the battery-powered assistance of an e-bike on our self-guided tours. The best part is our day trip covers all the logistics, comfortable accommodation and bike hire is included!

> View the Blue Mountains Cycle Adventure

Do you prefer an e-bike to a regular bike? Are you keen to explore the Blue Mountains by bike? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cycle along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Brisbane Valley Rail Trail tours, Queensland, Cycle Queensland

Watch: Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

The Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland has produced a wonderful short film on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail that features the many highlights of the trail.

This is how they describe the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT), or BVRT, is not just a trail; it's an off-road adventure trail that takes you on a journey through time and nature. Following the disused Brisbane Valley railway line from Wulkuraka, west of Ipswich, to Yarraman, west of Kilcoy, the BVRT offers walkers, bike and horse riders a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse rural landscapes of the Brisbane Valley. This landscape is not just a backdrop; it's a living canvas mixed with heritage-listed and historical sites while passing through some of Queensland's most unique country towns.

The BVRT, the longest rail trail in Australia at 161km, is designed with your safety and comfort as our top priority. Most of the trail has excellent compounded gravel grading, providing a relatively smooth run. While there might be the occasional rocky section, rest assured that the trail is well-maintained and safe. The trail is most rewarding when travelling from Yarraman in the north towards Wulkuraka in the south, which gradually descends into the Brisbane Valley.

What's included on Australian Cycle Tours' self-guided tours

✔️ comfortable accommodation that's full of character
✔️ daily luggage transfers
✔️ handy navigation tools
✔️ 24/7 support
✔️ mountain bike hire with helmet and lock
✔️ necessary transfers and bike return

Pedal a mountain bike on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail | <i>Tourism and Events Queensland</i>

I cycled the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail with 8 friends on e-bikes. The trail was lovely, great surface , really well maintained and very few other cyclists. The accommodation was organised for us and was mostly good, there is not a lot of choice in some of these small outback towns. The Linwood Pub was pretty cool on a Saturday night with music and great restaurant and new motel units at Esk camping ground. We bought our own food along the way and some was fantastic -Picnic Society - Toogoolawah and Thai Takeaway -Esk. The transfers and bag transport was perfect. S. Rowe. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

>> View the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail self-guided cycle tour

>> View the Watch: Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail

>> View all Rail Trail tours

Are you keen to cycle the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cycle through the Australian countryside | Bruce Baker

Self Guided Cycling, Cycling Tours, Self Guided Cycling Tours, Australian Cycle Tours, Self Guided Cycling in Australia

How Does A Self Guided Cycling Trip Work?

While most people are familiar with how a guided tour works, i.e. having a professional guide lead a group of travellers around on an adventure, the concept of a self-guided tour may require some explanation.

In this article, we describe what it’s like to go on a self-guided cycling trip with Australian Cycle Tours. Hopefully, after reading this you’ll be eager to experience a self-guided bike holiday in Australia. With Australian Cycle Tour’s range of affordable and convenient tours in key cycling destinations, such as Mudgee, the Hunter Valley, and Victoria’s Rail Trails, going on a self-guided cycling tour in Australia has never been easier.

Enjoy a glass of wine at Naked Lady Wines | Tim Charody

Before Your Trip

Bike Supplements

Top-quality bike and helmet hire is included with all our self-guided cycling tours. The specific bicycle description is outlined on the trip page. On certain trips it is possible to upgrade your bike if you’d like to use a tag-a-long bike or an electric bike. Learn more about electric bikes in our article: should I hire an electric bike for my trip?

Cycle between charming seaside towns | Bruce Baker

Accommodation Upgrades

On certain tours, there is the option to upgrade to more luxurious accommodation. For example, in the Hunter Valley, you can choose the Deluxe versions of our cycling tours. Deluxe accommodation includes a spacious open plan bedroom, lounge room fireplace and a private spa bathtub.

On Tour

Collect your bike

Your trip notes will specify where to collect your bike from. They could be waiting for you at your accommodation or available for pick up from an accessible bike shop. Sometimes a staff member will be present to make sure your bike is right for you, do a run-through of your itinerary, and answer any questions you have before you embark on your journey.

Cycling on Maria Island | Andrew Bain

Luggage transfer

Leave everything you don’t need to take on your cycling adventure at your accommodation reception. The included luggage transfer service will transport your bags to your next accommodation.

Luggage is transferred daily on the South Coast Self Guided Cycle | Kate Baker

App, GPX and Maps

Time to hit the road! One of the key benefits of self-guided cycling is the freedom to explore at your own pace. We provide you with the appropriate navigation app, maps and GPX tracks so you can easily follow the itinerary. We make recommendations for sights to visit, places to eat at, and more.

Cycling along the Munda Biddi Trail from Albany to Walpole

Centre Based Trips

If you’re on a centre based trip, like the Mudgee Explorer, you’ll stay at the same accommodation for the duration of your tour. There are a few fantastic benefits of going on a centre based trip, such as being able to fully explore the area, the freedom of not following a strict itinerary, and, best of all, only needing to unpack once!

Accommodation

At the end of a glorious day of cycling Australia’s vivid landscapes, your itinerary will lead you to your accommodation. The accommodation is handpicked for a variety of reasons: character, comfort, and closeness to local sights. At check-in you’ll find your luggage waiting for you, making it very convenient to rest and recharge for the next days’ pedalling. Read more about our accommodation.

Our standard accommodation in the Hunter Valley | Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill

Breakfast

When you wake up you can enjoy your included breakfast which will fuel you for the day’s cycling adventures.

Support and Assistance

We provide you with a contact number if any issues arise while on tour.

Cycling along the Munda Biddi Trail from Albany to Walpole

- View all self-guided cycling tours in Australia

- Read our Go-To Guide for preparing for a cycling tour

Have you been on a self-guided tour before? What was it like? Let us know in the comment section below.

Scenic view of Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, Pokolbin | Destination NSW

Hunter Valley, Cycling, Self Guided Cycling, Hunter Valley Bike Tour, Bike Tour, Hunter Valley Cycling

6 Reasons to Cycle The Hunter Valley

While nobody should need convincing to take a holiday to the Hunter Valley, perhaps we need to reveal how much fun you can have on a cycling tour.

Here we describe the many benefits of taking a self-guided cycling tour of the Hunter Valley.

1. The Hermitage Road Cycle Path

The Hermitage Road Cycle Path is a special bike trail that stretches from the New England Highway to Broke Road. This cycleway was built in 2017 and links many of the Hunter Valley’s top vineyards. Cycling from winery to winery has never been easier, and as you can see by the video the local community is very appreciative of it.

2. Short Distances

Scenic view of Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, Pokolbin | <i>Destination NSW</i>

Given the relatively close proximity of the Hunter Valley wineries, you can enjoy a comfortable short ride between vineyard stops. By following our recommended itinerary you’ll ride between 2-4 hours each day over a distance of 25km to 35km. An ideal length that won’t leave you exhausted!

3. Earn Your Food and Wine!

Enjoy beer tastings at IronBark Hill Brewhouse in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley | <i>Destination NSW</i>

The Hunter Valley is famous for its indulgent food and wine, and we daresay that’s what you’ll find yourself in the thick of while you explore the region. While we’re not sure of the exact science behind it, we find that the best way to experience the Hunter Valley’s delicacies is to earn it. Stretching the legs on a ride is a great way to work up an appetite and allow you to enjoy guilt-free tasting of all the divine cheeses, wines, olives you can handle.

4. Self-Guided Cycling

Follow the Hunter Valley's dedicated cycle route | <i>Bruce Baker</i>

Explore the Hunter Valley at your own pace on our self-guided tour. We provide you with a recommended itinerary for each day, but ultimately you have complete freedom with where you decide to ride to.

5. Electric Bike Options

A picturesque stop on the way from Brunico to Dobbiaco | <i>Rob Mills</i>

If you’re looking to boost your confidence on a bike, let an electric bicycle do the work. An e-bike contains a built-in motor that provides extra oompf to your cycling. This allows you to easily keep up with stronger cyclists and cover further distance than you normally could. If you’re curious as to how an electric bike works and are interested in using one on a longer journey in the future, the Hunter Valley is the perfect opportunity to take one for a spin. Find out more about electric bikes here.

6. Become Immersed in the Gorgeous Scenery

Hang out with the locals at Hermitage Road Cellars | <i>Destination NSW</i>

Sure, pedalling a bike between vineyards will always be a slower option than a car, but with views like these, what’s the rush!?

Ready to hop on a bike and explore the Hunter Valley? Great. These self-guided cycling tours are the perfect escape to the Hunter Valley.

> 4 Day Hunter Valley Self Guided Cycle Explorer

> 4 Day Hunter Valley Self Guided Cycle Explorer - Deluxe

> 3 Day Hunter Valley Short Break

> 3 Day Hunter Valley Short Break - Deluxe

Have you been on bike trip in the Hunter Valley before? How did it go? Let us know in the comment section below!

Reward your cycling with a Mudgee wine | Tim Charody

Mudgee, Mudgee Cycling, Cycle Mudgee, Watch Mudgee, Mudgee Cycle Tour

Watch: Explore Mudgee by Bike

World-class vineyards, cosy restaurants, historic streets - Mudgee is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday. And at just a few hours drive from Sydney, Mudgee makes for a dream long weekend away to experience the countryside by bike.

Watch this short video on the self-guided Mudgee Cycle Tour and see some of the exciting cycling adventures to be had in Mudgee.

About the Mudgee Self-Guided Cycle Tour

What better way to enjoy the wines, food and countryside of Mudgee, than by bike. On this self guided cycle you are free to set your own pace, with time to enjoy a long lunch, sample local cheeses or stop for a wine tasting en route. The choice is yours.

In the vines in Mudgee | <i>Ross Baker</i>

With countless wineries, renowned restaurants and lovely cafes, you'll be spoiled for choice for a well-earned gourmet treat after spending the day cycling through the countryside.

>> View the Mudgee Cycle Tour

>> View the Mudgee Cycle Tour

>> View all bike tours in NSW

Have you explored Mudgee? What did you think of this wonderful town? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cycling the Lue back roads near Mudgee | Tim Charody

Central West, Cycle Australia, Australian Cycle Tours, Australian Cycling Holidays, Australian Cycling Films, Wollemi National Park, Rylstone, Mudgee, Capertee Valley, Central West Cycle Trail

Watch: Explore Australia's Central West by Bike

Learn all about cycling the Central West region of NSW in Australia and how going on a self-guided or supported trip with Australian Cycle Tours will enhance your experience.

This extended film includes 4amazing areas within the Central West that are well worth exploring by bike. Discover the Central West Cycle Trail, the Capertee Valley, Rylstone and the Wollemi National Park, and the lovely town of Mudgee.

Discover the Central West on a Cycling Holiday

There are multiple top-rated bike tours to explore the Central West.

Central West Cycle Trail

A self-guided or supported cycling trip along the Central West Cycle Trail is the best way to take in the rural views, lonely roads and charming towns packed with local character.

There are multiple ways to cycle the Central West Cycle Trail. The classic 7-day route includes stays in Mudgee, Gulgong, Dunedoo, Mendooran, Ballimore, Dubbo and Wellington, and can be cycled on a self-guided trip or with the camaraderie of a supported tour. Or if you’re on limited time, the itinerary of the self-guided Central West Cycle Trail Highlights holiday bypasses Dubbo and takes just 5-days.

> View all tours along the Central West Cycle Trail

Crossing a small bridge on the route between Mendooran and Dunedoo | <i>Michele Eckersley</i>

Capertee Valley in Comfort Cycle Tour

> View the Capertee Valley in Comfort Cycle Tour

Cyclists viewing the Capertee Valley walls | <i>Katy Taylor</i>

Rylstone & Wollemi National Park Cycle Tour

Over four days of cycling you’ll cover much of what defines this region including cycling though native bushland, along quiet backroads though pastoral sheep country, and along ridge lines with amazing views to the peaks in the distance. You will also cycle through areas renowned for bird sightings and pass by koala habitat.

The first two days of the trip are spent in Rylstone before you spend two nights in the Ganguddy region of the Wollemi National Park staying in a unique cottage. While in the Ganguddy region there are opportunities to add kayaking and an Indigenous immersion walk. In Rylstone you can discover museums, art galleries and vineyards, and dine on superb international cuisine to compliment the cycling experience.

> View the Rylstone & Wollemi National Park Cycle Tour

Looking out at the pagoda rocks by Dunn's Swamp | <i>Tim Charody</i>

Mudgee Self-Guided Cycle Tour

We have a number of routes for you mapped out, each of which gives you ample time to appreciate the produce of this region. You'll stay in Mudgee for 4 nights, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the delights of the town. With countless wineries, renowned restaurants and lovely cafes, you'll be spoiled for choice for a well-earned gourmet treat after spending the day cycling through the countryside.

> View the Mudgee Self-Guided Cycle Tour

Moothi Vineyard near Mudgee is bike-friendly | <i>Tim Charody</i>

>> View all Central West cycle tours

>> View all bike tours in NSW

Have you visited the Central West? What did you think of this beautiful region? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cycling the Capertee Valley | Tim Charody

Capertee Valley, Visit NSW, Australian Cycle Tours

Watch: Cycling in the Capertee Valley

One of the best hidden gems of New South Wales has to be the Capertee Valley. Home to the world's largest canyon (yes, even bigger than the Grand Canyon!), the Capertee Valley is just a couple of hours drive from Sydney. And the greatest way to explore the area is - of course - by bike.

Watch this short video on the Capertee Valley in Comfort Cycle Tour to get a better understanding of what this fantastic Australian bike route is all about.

About the Capertee Valley in Comfort Self-Guided Cycle Tour

Surrounded by World Heritage listed wilderness such as the Wollemi and the Gardens of Stone National Parks, the Capertee Valley is the world's widest and longest enclosed valley - 1km wider than the Grand Canyon. Entering the canyon by bike, the spectacular views of the impressive Pantoneys Crown, standing proudly alone, and the rocky escarpment framing the canyon are ample reward for your pedalling efforts. This view inspired Henry Lawson who wrote about the valley in his poem, “Song of the Old Bullock Driver”.

Along with the escarpment, the timeless beauty of the valley is punctuated by interesting rock formations including conical volcanic peaks like Tyan Pic. The area is recognised internationally as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a habitat of the endangered Regent Honeyeater. Capertee is within the traditional country of the Wirrdjuri people. It was discovered by Europeans seeking fortunes in the mining of shale oil. The former shale mining town of Glen Davis paints the history of that time and is a worthy diversion on the cycle route.

Leaving the valley behind the route takes you through Kandos, whose limestone became the basis for a booming cement factory in the 20th Century. Continuing on to Rylstone, the pretty main street has gourmet food options, while the nearby vineyards offer opportunities for the tasting of premium wines.

Take a break at Naked Lady Wines in Rylstone | <i>Tim Charody</i>

The last leg of the cycle is along a quiet, undulating road through classic rural scenes all the way to Mudgee where the trip concludes. At night stay in hand picked premium B&B's for two nights, and a boutique hotel in Mudgee. The accommodation is a highlight of the trip with friendly hosts and great views, ensuring cyclists are well looked after. With your luggage transferred, all you need to do is pedal your e-bike, listen to the birdsong in the air and take in the outstanding scenery.

> View the Capertee Valley in Comfort Self-Guided Tour