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Let’s be real: the idea of going on a multi-day cycling holiday might sound like fun – until you’re 50 kilometres deep with a bruised backside, a stomach full of questionable gels and the looming anxiety of a flat tyre. Fortunately, there’s a way to conquer Australia’s longest rail trail without the saddle sores – and it involves a lot more scenery and support than stress.
Stretching 161 kilometres from North Ipswich to Yarraman, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is the longest, and arguably one of the most iconic, rail trails in Australia. While it’s long been a bucket-list ride for lycra lovers across the country, this legendary route is now more accessible for people of all riding abilities.
Australian Cycle Tours has just launched a new, three-day guided cycle trip that winds through the best parts of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, while detouring to some of the region’s lesser-known gems. You’ll tackle 20 to 43 kilometres a day on an e-bike across a mix of mostly flat gravel, dirt and asphalt, making it achievable for anyone who’s reasonably fit – kids included. That means you can fully focus on the scenery as it shifts from sweeping valleys and rugged mountains to the cool canopy of deep forests.
The best part of doing a guided cycle trip is that a support van is always on standby to pick you up whenever your legs need a rest! Beyond the trail, your expert local guides will also take you to some of the Somerset region’s best-kept secrets – think a private tour of a heritage-listed homestead, tastings at a local macadamia farm, and pitstops at the most iconic country pubs and bakeries. Plus, at the end of the day, you’ll get to trade your saddle for a remote farmstay and a serene lakeside glamping spot.
For super-experienced riders, Australian Cycle Tours also offers a self-guided, four-day cycle – with both the guided and independent tours on sale for winter now. You can explore dates here.