Top 6 Highlights of Cycling Tasmania’s East Coast
Cycling through Tasmania's East Coast offers an unforgettable journey marked by captivating landscapes, historic towns, and natural marvels. From Launceston to Hobart, this guided group tour with a support vehicle ensures safety, camaraderie, and an immersive experience you won't forget.
1. Launceston: An Historic Start
Commencing in Launceston, the adventure unfolds against the backdrop of the Tamar River and Cataract Gorge. Guided by an expert, you'll explore the city's rich history and modern charm, setting the tone for the remarkable journey ahead.
2. Cycling The North East Tasmania Rail Trail
Any cycling trip in Tasmania should include a ride on this wonderful Rail Trail. Located just out of Launceston it's a stunning ride through history and forest and open farmlands and is a delight. At just over 30kms it's the ideal start to a longer Tasmania cycling adventure. Overnight in charming Scottsdale allows you to rest and recharge for the days to come.
3. Waterfalls, Farms & Beaches
Heading east towards St Helens soon reveals the beauty of the Tasmanian East Coast. Pristine beaches, seaside towns and a vibrant art scene.
But not before stopping at St Columba Falls however, with a handy lunch stop at nearby Pyengana Dairy Company. One of the things we love about Tasmania is access to quality fresh produce, and this is a great example.
In one day we have experienced waterfalls, working farms and wild coastline. Tasmania!
4. Bicheno's Coastal Charm
Hugging the coastline is a good idea, the scenery is stunning. Heading south along the Tasman Highway you can find a good shoulder and cruise along admiring the coastal view.
One of the East Coast of Tasmania's more popular towns is Bicheno. A nightly penguin parade, famous Fish & Chip outlets, and a long sandy surf beach are all magnets for visitors.
5. Luxurious Respite: Freycinet Lodge
Cycling south from Bicheno, it's not long before reaching the Coles Bay & Freycinet Peninsula region.
Arriving at Freycinet Lodge signifies a lavish interlude in your cycling adventure. Nestled within Freycinet National Park, this sanctuary offers pure indulgence. Guided hikes to Wineglass Bay and gourmet dining elevate your experience amidst the wilderness.
The easy hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout is a must do, and with a National Park guide even better.
6. Glamping in Quirky Triabunna
A journey along the east coast of Tasmania is often punctuated with a stop in Triabunna, as it's the launching pad for the ferry to popular Maria Island, which is well worth a visit.
But we also like it as it's home to what was once the largest wood mill site in the Southern Hemisphere. Now converted into a glamping and accommodation venue for groups, it's unique and super interesting.
7. The Ride into Hobart
The final riding day into Hobart is great fun. We recommend moving off the main Highway just after Triabunna as the traffic begins to interrupt the joy of the ride.
There are quiet country rides that can lead most of the way to Hobart, revealing rolling farmland a stones throw from Tasmania's major city. A quick stop into historically preserved Richmond (pictured) and Australia's oldest bridge is fun.
But why ride all the way, when we are (re)entering wine country, and some of the best known and historic cellar doors like Pooley Wines are nearby!