How long does it take to do a cycling tour of Tasmania?
To truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty and remarkable diversity of Tasmania by bike, we recommend setting aside at least 5 to 8 days.
Our Hobart-specific tours span 5 days, offering the perfect window to explore the very best of Hobart and its surrounding areas on two wheels.
For those seeking a more expansive adventure, our gravel specific tours from Launceston to Hobart are designed over 7 to 8 days.
Our 7-day Cross Tassie Gravel Adventure takes you through the awe-inspiring Central Highlands off the beaten track, whilst our East Coast Gravel Adventure offers access to some of the best cycling on the Island State of Tasmania, delivering an unforgettable cycling experience through Tasmania’s most iconic landscapes.
What’s the best time of year to cycle in Tasmania?
Tasmania’s temperate climate makes it a year-round haven for cyclists. Summers are pleasantly warm without being overwhelming, and winters, while cold, are manageable-especially when the inspiring and diverse scenery steals your attention. That said, Tasmanian weather has a playful streak, often delivering four seasons in a single day!
To ensure our guests have the best possible experience, Après Vélo Cycling Tours run from late spring (October) through to late summer (March).
Our Cross Tassie Gravel Adventure is strategically planned for the height of summer, taking riders through the Central Highlands, an area notorious for Tasmania’s chilliest weather patterns.
On tour, you’ll enjoy the perfect mix of adventure and comfort—no matter what the weather brings.
What do I need to take when doing a cycling tour in Tasmania?
Weather in Hobart can be unpredictable and plays a big part with each ride.
Therefore, each rider must be prepared for rainy weather and colder temperatures. Tasmanian weather has a playful streak, often delivering four seasons in a single day!
Our recommendations for packing are set out below:
• 3-5 sets of cycling clothing, including base layers.
• Helmet
• Gilet
• Long sleeve thermal jacket- waterproof and windproof
• Fingerless and full finger winter gloves
• Thermal overshoes
• Leg warmers/arm warmers
• For dinners - there is no dress code. Jeans, t-shirt and sneakers are suitable.
Is it safe to cycle in Tasmania?
Cycling in Tasmania is generally considered safe, but the level of safety can vary depending on the location, road conditions, and individual cycling habits.
With less traffic than mainland Australia, Tasmania's roads are ideally suited for cycling and considered a lot safer than the mainland cities.
On tour we stick to designated cycling paths and roads less travelled whenever possible.
Cycling safety in Tasmania is improving, thanks to infrastructure development and growing awareness, but cyclists should always remain cautious, especially on shared roads.
What are our top 5 Tassie Rides?
1. Jacobs Ladder - Ben Lomond National Park
15.5km | 1000m
This iconic climb features on our Cross Tassie Gravel Adventure.
The climb itself starts at the Ben Lomond Base 30km from Launceston which is a hub for the ski field at the top. 15.5km at 6.3% is not for the faint-hearted! It's also very seasonal. We would recommend Summer or Autumn to ride the climb as snow and freezing conditions are a regular occurrence in Spring and Winter.
The gravel gets very chunky at the top and a gravel bike makes the climb much more pleasant.
There is a lookout at the top that is worth the diversion as it's the best spot to see back down the six iconic switchbacks and appreciate what you have just achieved.
2. Pipeline track - Hobart
22km | 180m
If mountain climbing isn't your thing, try the pipeline track. It's a family-friendly ride along the pipeline that was once the main water supply for Hobart.
The track is 11km long but as it's an out-and-back, so you can turn around at any point. The best place to access the track is from Ferntree, just opposite the tavern.
There is a bus from Hobart to Ferntree with bike racks if you don't fancy the ride up from the city.
The track is gravel, but it's very well maintained and can be ridden on any type of bike.
The highlights of the track are the overhanging fern trees, the historic convict sandstone work, and the impressive views back down the valley.
There is an option to visit Silver Falls a short but steep diversion it's worth the effort and the water is cold and clear if you fancy a drink and rest at the top.
The Pipeline track is included on most of our Tasmania Cycling Tours.
3. Hobart to Cygnet
90km | 1600m
Starting from Hobart, this route follows the Channel Highway southward through Taroona and Kingston hugging the coastline and offering stunning views of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and Bruny Island.
The ride passes through quaint towns like Kettering and Woodbridge before reaching Cygnet, well-known and highly regarded for its arts and café culture.
The terrain is rolling, with some short climbs. You can choose to return via the same route or explore alternative roads through the stunning Huon Valley.
4. Maria Island
35km | 500m
With no cars, gently undulating roads and picturesque coastal scenery, Maria Island is the perfect destination to explore by bike as we do on our Tasmania East Coast Gravel Tour. The island is connected to Triabunna on Tasmania's east coast by a ferry, with the option to either bring your own bike or hire one online and pick it up on arrival.
From the former penal colony of Darlington, you can get up close to wombats, kangaroos and wallabies along the Reservoir Track or ride south to the magnificent Painted Cliffs, which are renowned for their incredible colours and swirling patterns.
Slightly longer and steeper is the Fossil Cliffs Circuit, which winds around the northern tip of the island with towering sea cliffs and incredible views of Bishop and Clerk Peak- it's a ride to remember.
5. Kunanyi/Mount Wellington
21km | 1271m
No cycling trip to Tasmania is complete without riding up to Mt Wellington's summit at 1271 metres from sea level, it's one impressive climb.
The most pleasant way to climb is from the Cascade Brewery, a Tassie icon in its own right.
The first part on the climb to the turnoff at Pinnacle Road is the easiest, so save some energy for the second half of the climb where the gradient increases and the road surface is rough.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views, weather permitting. Be mindful that the mountain has its own weather pattern with temperatures often 10 or more degrees colder than the city and there are often high winds.
Be sure to pack a jacket and long-fingered gloves. Take extra care on the descent - the road surface isn't perfect, and after climbing 1,250 metres, tired legs and cold hands can make the descent extra challenging.
The bottom line... the view from the summit is well worth the effort - this is without a doubt, one of Australia's bucket list climbs and featured on our Tasmania Cycling Tour, Grupetto Cycling Tour, and half day cycling tours.
CONCLUSION
Tasmania offers a variety of stunning cycling destinations, catering to all levels of experience, from leisurely riders to adventure-seekers.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing ride or a challenging adrenaline packed adventure, Tasmania's diverse cycling routes promise unforgettable experiences.
>>View Our Tasmania Cycling Tours
