The best bike trails in Melbourne

Total distance: 40km one way
Level of difficulty: Medium 

This historic trail is great for city slickers who wanna go bush. Following the path of the old railway line through the Yarra Valley, the trail kicks off behind Lilydale Railway Station, meandering beside scenic bushland, wineries and farmland. It's well looked after too – just be weary of the hoards of walkers and horse riders that flock here when the weather’s good. If the distance scares you, make a weekend of it and stay overnight in Warburton before riding back the next day (note that overnight stays are currently not permitted in Victoria due to government restrictions).

Total distance: 22km one way
Level of difficulty: Easy-Medium

Starting in Eltham, this trail is a pretty satisfying ride towards Fairfield that follows the flow of the Yarra. It’s flat most of the way with loads of leafy corridors to pass through. Closer to the city the trail is sealed and your necessary pit stops include the Heide Museum of Modern Art and the colonial-era Fairfield Boathouse for some scones.

Total distance: 13km one way
Level of difficulty: Easy

It’s easy to forget how close we are to the Bass Strait when we’re holed up in the CBD. Get some ocean breeze up in ya with this scenic tour that starts at St Kilda Beach and hugs the coastline as it travels south-east around the bay. Bonuses include no bigs hills and Insta-worthy views while you pedal.

Total distance: 21km one way
Level of difficulty: Medium

Starting at Dights Falls and winding its way across the city to the Western Ring Road, this trail is easy to miss, but easy to ride. Running along Merri Creek (who’d have thought?) the path goes through Brunswick and past CERES environmental park with only a couple of steep stretches that both Lycra-clad and skinny jean weekend riders can handle.

Total distance: 29km loop
Level of difficulty: Easy-Medium

Riding this central loop has long been a popular option for Melbourne cyclists. Consisting mostly of sections of other trails, including the Merri Creek, Yarra Trail, Moonee Ponds Creek Trail and Inner Circle Rail Trail, the loop passes landmarks like Southbank, Melbourne Zoo and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Jump off wherever you please.

Total distance: 23km one way
Level of difficulty: Easy

It's not just Melbourne's south that can boast beachside bike rides. The Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail is 23km of seaside cycling bliss that shows off some of the beauty of Melbourne's western suburbs. Start near Scienceworks beneath the Westgate Bridge and work your way towards Williamstown, through Altona and on to Skeleton Creek. There are a few interesting stops along the way, too – a loop around Cherry Lake is well worth the detour and Williamstown Botanic Gardens is great for a pitstop.