Cyclists have long enjoyed the safe, low-traffic country roads that run the length of the Great Western Tiers, and four cycling trails have been developed along these roads.
The Great Country Ride, Great Gourmet Ride, Great World Heritage Ride and the Great Caves Ride all have unique stories and natural attributes that will inspire touring cyclists. The trails are marked by colour-coded cycling trail totems, which help to ensure cyclists stay on track.
For even more enjoyment you can download a series of inspiring podcasts bringing the region to life. Set your own pace and take the time to experience the sights, tastes, smells and stories of this breathtaking region.
Download the accompanying Great Western Tiers Cycling Trails map here.
GREAT CAVES RIDE: DAYS 1 & 2
Image: Riders at Chudleigh | Rob Burnett
The Great Caves Ride can be taken as either a one or two day ride and will take you through an area that is home to some of the most famous caves in Australia.
If you decide on a one day tour, you will depart from Deloraine and make your way through Mole Creek via Chudleigh to the caves, before returning to Deloraine along the same road. Make time to stop at the many attractions this area has to offer, including Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, the spectacular Alum Cliffs, and the spellbinding King Solomons and Marakoopa Caves.
Day two is a beautiful 35km ride along gently sloping country roads to the south of Mole Creek and offers the chance to explore some of the more out-of-the-way townships as you approach the Great Western Tiers.
If you are taking the two day option, you could stay overnight at Mole Creek or at one of the many B&Bs en route, see Accommodation | Great Western Tiers.
Distance: Day 1 - 72km, Day 2 - 54km
PODCAST
Simply click these links to open the podcasts via archive.org. Download options are listed on the podcast page.
GREAT COUNTRY RIDE
Image: Cyclists at Entally Estate | Rob Burnett
A flat ride through scenic countryside and historic townships, the Great Country Ride provides two options depending on the direction you are heading.
Traveling west from Launceston, the inbound tour begins in Hadspen before leaving the main highway to explore the district’s English-style countryside. Along the way you will discover the traditional farming practices that characterises this area, and some of the best evidence of our colonial heritage.
The ride rejoins the main highway in the picturesque rural township of Westbury.
The outbound option is simply a reversal of the ride, but may be more convenient for those who wish to end up in Launceston.
Distance: 56km
PODCAST
Simply click these links to open the podcasts via archive.org. Download options are listed on the podcast page.
GREAT GOURMET RIDE
Image: Taking a break on the Deloraine Riverbank | Rob Burnett
The Great Gourmet Ride offers an easy journey through lush pastures and valleys to the west of Deloraine – an area that is home to some of Australia’s leading gourmet producers.
A great contrast to the Great Country Ride, this tour offers a glimpse at some of the region’s more innovative farming practices and provides plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the delicious gourmet products along the way.
Allow plenty of additional time to stop at places such as Ashgrove Farm Cheese, Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm and the 41 Degrees South Salmon Farm. Also be sure to leave plenty of room in the pack as most of the stops on this tour offer farm gate sales.
Distance: 62km
PODCAST
Simply click this link to open the podcast via archive.org. Download options are listed on the podcast page.
GREAT WORLD HERITAGE RIDE
Image: Lake Highway | Rob Burnett
The Great World Heritage Ride extends south from Deloraine, providing some amazing views of the Great Western Tiers as you approach the edge of the famous Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
As you journey south towards Liffey Falls and the World Heritage Area, the ride becomes more challenging. Cyclists should take careful note of the safety information contained in the podcasts and be aware that the final stretch on the approach to Liffey Falls is suitable for hybrid and mountain bikes only.
Take some time at the beginning or end of this tour to explore the many cultural attractions the town of Deloraine has to offer.
Distance: 60km
PODCAST
Simply click this link to open the podcast via archive.org. Download options are listed on the podcast page.