There are countless ways to travel – by plane, cruise ship, train, horseback, or in this case, on two wheels. Cycling holidays are one of the most underrated and sustainable ways to explore the world – and we predict this method of travel is set to surge in popularity in 2026. If you’re keen to saddle up, there’s no better place to start than our very own backyard.
Australia’s wildly diverse landscapes offer something for every type of rider – from gentle rail trails and family-friendly forest paths to epic multi-day adventures where you’ll really feel the burn (in the best way). To get the wheels turning, we asked the gurus at Australian Cycle Tours to round up the ten most popular cycling holidays across the country. From solo rides to guided journeys, there’s something here for every pace and pedal power.
1. Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, QLD
Stretching 161 kilometres between Wulkuraka and Yarraman in southern Queensland, this is Australia’s longest rail trail, tracing the former Brisbane Valley rail line built over 29 years between 1884 and 1913. Completed in 2018, the mostly flat and vehicle-free cycle path is ideal for cruisy rides, with plenty of chances to refuel in historic country towns along the way.
Distance: 161 kilometres
Days: Four days
Difficulty: Moderate
2. Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, VIC
Head to Victoria’s High Country for the ride of your life. In 2024, the beloved Murray to Mountains Rail Trail gained a 32-kilometre extension, turning it into one huge 180-kilometre off-road track. With alpine scenery on one side and cellar doors on the other, it’s the perfect food-and-bike getaway. Australian Cycle Tours offers three self-guided tours for all abilities.
Distance: Up to 233 kilometres
Days: Four to seven days
Difficulty: Introductory to moderate
3. Munda Biddi Southern Cycle, WA
Stretching more than 1,000 kilometres from Perth to Albany, Munda Biddi is one of the world's longest marked off-road cycling trails. Whether you want to dip in for the southern segment or do the full thing, it offers sections to suit every fitness level and riding ability. The southern cycle from Albany to Walpole is a real highlight, with accommodation and all meals taken care of by Australian Cycle Tours.
Distance: 207 kilometres
Days: Six days
Difficulty: Moderate
4. Brisbane Valley & Kilkivan Combined Rail Trails, QLD
Double your rail-trail fun with this epic self-guided adventure that links two of Queensland’s most iconic routes: the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail. Along the way, you’ll ride through historic towns, refuel at country bakeries and soak up sweeping views of rural Queensland.
Distance: 314 kilometres
Days: Six days
Difficulty: Moderate
5. Northern Rivers Rail Trail, NSW
Tracing a former railway line in the Tweed region, the family-friendly Northern Rivers Rail Trail deserves a spot on your NSW holiday hit list. Expect a scenic, car-free adventure that winds through tunnels, villages and rainforest canopies.
Distance: 48 kilometres
Days: Three days
Difficulty: Introductory
6. Great Victorian Rail Trail, VIC
Blending stunning alpine landscapes with award-winning food and wine, Victoria’s High Country is a dream destination for cycling enthusiasts. Running from Mansfield to Tallarook, the Great Victorian Rail Trail is a great introduction to the region, tracing quiet countryside paths past rivers, lakes and through historic towns.
Distance: 155 kilometres
Days: Four days
Difficulty: Introductory to moderate
7. East Gippsland Rail Trail, VIC
Another popular rail trail, this peaceful loop through East Gippsland is ideal for new riders. You’ll pedal through both farmland and forest, with plenty of opportunities to stop for local produce, microbreweries and regional wines along the way.
Distance: 149 kilometres
Days: Four days
Difficulty: Introductory to moderate
8. Kosciuszko to the Sea, NSW
Few journeys let you travel from the highest point in the country to the lowest – but this route does exactly that. You’ll hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko (2,228 metres), then ride downhill to the shores of Lake Jindabyne before continuing along the beautiful Sapphire Coast.
Distance: 279 kilometres
Days: Six days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
9. Gippsland and Snowy River National Park Supported Cycle, VIC
Explore the remote corners of the Snowy River region on this epic five-day ride. With the support of Australian Cycle Tours, you can focus on the scenery while looking forward to dinner and stories at the end of each day.
Distance: 295 kilometres
Days: Five days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
10. Barossa Valley Cycle Short Break, SA
This short-but-sweet ride is the perfect mini escape into one of Australia’s best wine regions. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of chances to stop for gourmet goodies, world-class wine and a taste of local history.
Distance: 79 kilometres
Days: Two days
Difficulty: Introductory to moderate