Tasmania East Coast Cycling Tour Holiday

Embark on an 8-day, 7-night gravel cycling adventure along Tasmania's East Coast and hinterland, experiencing some of the Island State's best cycling. Starting in Launceston and finishing in Hobart, this fully supported 453km tour offers rugged forests, farmlands, wild coastlines, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns. Guided by professional cycling photographer Beardy McBeard, riders will enjoy stunning scenery, varied terrain, and the iconic climb of Mt Barrow. With unique accommodation, daily luggage transfers, and memorable culinary experiences, this adventure is perfect for those seeking to create lasting memories both on and off the bike.
Join us for the Tassie East Coast Gravel Adventure and embrace the Après Vélo lifestyle.

TOUR INTRODUCTION

Tasmania's East Coast and adjacent hinterland offers access to some of the best cycling on the Island State of Tasmania and there are few better ways to take in this experience, than by embarking upon a fully supported cycling tour with like-minded souls on this 8-day/7-night gravel cycling adventure.

On this 453km gravel adventure from Launceston to Hobart traversing the East Coast, we will experience rugged forestation, farmland, wild coastline, pristine beaches, seaside towns and seriously good gravel riding.

This is a trip for adventure seekers that will create fond memories which will last forever.

Start: Launceston
Finish: Hobart
Duration: 8 days; 7 nights
Theme: Gravel cycling adventure
Total Distance: 453km
Total Elevation: 7771m
Difficulty: 4/5

REASONS TO JOIN US

Discover why Tasmania’s East Coast and adjacent hinterland is an incredible and rewarding experience both on and off the bike.
A true gravel adventure from Launceston to Hobart, off the beaten track, as tour guide and professional cycling photographer, Beardy McBeard leads you across this unbeatable East Coast paradise.
Seriously good gravel riding, stunning scenery and varied terrain.
Climb the Iconic Mt Barrow with its spectacular series of gravel switchbacks.
Fully supported rides with guides, mechanic, tools and support vehicle.
Embrace the Après Vélo lifestyle in amazing and unique accommodation once the wheels stop spinning.
Eating and drinking will be amongst the many sensory highlights we will experience.
Daily transfers of all bike bags and luggage.
Receive a gallery of lifelong memories from images taken on tour by Beardy McBeard.
Come with your mates or meet some new riders.

THE APRÈS VÉLO TASSIE EAST COAST GRAVEL ADVENTURE IS NOT JUST ABOUT THE BIKE. IT'S ABOUT THE APRÈS VÉLO LIFESTYLE AND CREATING FOND MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST FOREVER.

🚲 RIDE

You will experience why Tasmania is amongst the greatest cycling destinations in Australia.

🍴 EAT

Eating and drinking will be amongst the many sensory highlights we will experience, including a long lunch at the Piermont Estate sanctuary.

🛏 REST

We understand the importance of down time, comfort and peace. It is for this reason that we have selected appropriate and unique accommodation throughout the trip.

↻ REPEAT

Our daily rides will ensure you get to experience all of the beautiful landscapes this Australian cycling mecca has to offer.

JOIN US FOR THE TASSIE EAST COAST GRAVEL ADVENTURE

ITINERARY

Saturday 22nd Feb - LAUNCESTON

Arrive in Launceston for the start of the Tour. A good opportunity to pick up your pre-booked rental bikes (if required) and settle into your hotel. READ MORE >>

There is an option for a nice cruisy Launceston loop ride (circa 40km) at 1pm, for those who are keen to get the legs moving and ensure your bike set up is safe and good to go.

Accommodation: Launceston Grand Chancellor.

Welcome dinner: Provided by Après Vélo.

Sunday 23rd Feb - THE ICONIC MT BARROW TO DERBY

Distance: 94km
Elevation: 1878m
Gravel: 78%

We transfer early morning to the base of Mt Barrow which challenges Jacobs Ladder as Australia’s most iconic gravel climb. READ MORE >>

The spectacular gravel switchbacks and panoramic views of the valley below, are a bucket list ride for any gravel cycling enthusiast.

Having conquered “the beast” we will ride to the lush pastures of Scottsdale, for our 2nd adventure of the day - the North East Tasmanian Rail Trail, featuring rock cutting formations and overhanging tree ferns. It's a stunning ride through history, forestation and open farmlands.

Our ride leads us to the historic town of Derby, transformed from tin mining town into a world-famous Mountain biking hub. Enjoy a loop around Derby Lake on beautiful trails and recuperate from today’s ride in Australia’s only floating wood fired sauna, followed by a dip in the lake.

Your adventure has truly begun!

Our home for the night is Dales of Derby, a perfect base from which to explore this fascinating part of the world.

Accommodation: Dales of Derby.

Dinner: Shouted by Après Vélo at the local pub.

MONDAY 24th Feb - THE MAJESTIC BAY OF FIRES

Distance: 75km
Elevation: 1310m
Gravel: 70%

Upon departing Derby, we take scenic country roads towards St Helens, revealing the beauty of the Tasmanian East Coast. READ MORE >>

Wild coastlines greet us upon arrival into Bay of Fires, renowned for its pristine white beaches, clear azure seas and granite rocks splashed in orange lichen.

Our boutique accommodation for the night is located in the beautiful Bay of Fires Bush retreat, the perfect glamping site in all aspects and located only minutes drive from the stunning beaches of Bay of Fires and Binalong Bay. By the end, you’ll be wishing you could have stayed longer.

Accommodation: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Bay of Fires Bush Retreat.

Tuesday 25th Feb – CHAIN OF LAGOONS

Distance: 75km
Elevation: 1450m
Gravel: 47%

Rolling out through the seaside town of St.Helens, we head towards the hills and the St. Helens bike trails, before descending back to Tasmania’s stunning East Coast towards Little Beach Co. situated on a remote coastal property within the Chain of Lagoons. READ MORE >>

This evening, we will be treated to a unique glamping experience at Little Beach Co surrounded by private bushland, granite rocks and the white sands and crystal waters of Little Beach. Nature is truly on our doorstep.

Accommodation: Little Beach Co.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Little Beach Co.

Wednesday 26th Feb – FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

Distance: 70km
Elevation: 733m
Gravel: 10%

It’s time to rise and climb as we leave Little Beach and head towards Elephants Pass on route to Freycinet (with a transfer included when we hit the freeway). READ MORE >>

Whilst it’s a slightly shorter riding day mostly on sealed roads, it's certainly not easy, and will also provide us with the opportunity to make the most of Freycinet Lodge, a lavish interlude in our East Coast adventure.

Overlooking the blue waters of Great Oyster Bay and with the Hazards Mountain range as your backdrop, time stands still from the moment you arrive.

Of all Tasmania’s alluring seascapes, none magnetises travellers like Freycinet’s famous Wineglass Bay, regularly voted as one of the world's most photogenic bays – simply stunning.

Nestled within Freycinet National Park, this sanctuary offers pure indulgence, so seize the opportunity for exploring this special part of the East Coast including easy hikes to the famous Wineglass Bay and/or kayaking/swimming in the azure waters surrounded by the iconic granite peaks. Alternatively chill out in the comfort of the Lodge or on one of the amazing beaches.

A gourmet dining experience amidst the wilderness awaits.

Accommodation: Freycinet Lodge.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Freycinet Lodge.

Thursday 27th Feb – QUIRKY TRIABUNNA
Distance: 79km
Elevation: 1400m
Gravel: 61%

After breakfast we will transfer to the start of our Gravel ride on route to our long lunch at Piermont Estate, a sanctuary surrounded by breathtaking wilderness in an unspoilt bay along Tasmania’s remote East Coast. READ MORE >>

After lunch we will transfer to Triabunna, a scenic portside town and gateway to the wildlife sanctuary of Maria Island National Park.

Protected deep in Spring Bay, Triabunna is surrounded by beautiful beaches, coastal reserves and eucalyptus forest.

Triabunna’s relaxed pace of life is perfect for unwinding and adjusting to the rhythm of island time.

Our home for the night in Triabunna is Spring Bay Mill, a collection of sustainably crafted pods, perfect for Après Vélo adventurers embarking on a journey together.

Accommodation: Spring Bay Mill.

Lunch: Provided by Après Vélo at Piermont Estate.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Spring Bay Mill.

Friday 28th Feb – MARIA ISLAND
Distance: 60km
Elevation: 1000m
Gravel: 100%

After breakfast we take the ferry to Maria Island, blending extraordinary landscapes with teeming wildlife and no permanent population. READ MORE >>

This island park also happens to have one of the Tasmania’s most fascinating histories.

Hiking and gravel cycling are the only way to get about on car-free Maria Island, where mountains burst straight out of the sea and the cliffs are “painted” naturally. We will explore the colonial past as we cycle past historic ruins.

After a picnic style self-catered lunch on Maria Island, we will ferry back to Triabunna for our transfer back into Hobart.

Accommodation: Hotel Lenna, Hobart.

Dinner: Farewell dinner provided by Après Vélo.

Saturday 1st March
Adios to Tasmania.

Unfortunately, your riding adventure down the East Coast has come to an end, unless you wish to ride some of the spectacular gravel trails in Hobart (speak to us). READ MORE >>

What a great opportunity to spend the weekend in Hobart. Lots to see and do. Let us know if you wish us to arrange additional accommodation for you.

The Après Vélo itinerary may be subject to slight route changes, and other modifications subject to circumstances.

PRICES & DATES

Please note that we have limited accommodation space at each hotel. BOOK NOW whilst you can, to reserve your spot.

INCLUSIONS

ACCOMMODATION

Launceston Grand Chancellor – 1 night

Dales of Derby – 1 night

Bay of Fires Bush Retreat – 1 night

Little Beach Co – 1 night

Freycinet Lodge – 1 night

Spring Bay Mill – 1 night

Lenna of Hobart Hotel – 1 night

MEALS

Daily breakfasts x 7
Top level dinners x 7
Long lunch x 1

SUPPORT

Ride support with safety focus paramount. Our Tassie ride guides will ensure that your rides are truly local and take in many of the roads less travelled. We recognise that no rider is the same and we ensure that no-one is left behind whilst Living the Ride with us in Tassie.
Support van providing mechanical assistance if required.
On road nutrition & hydration support.

TRANSFERS

Daily en route transfers of all bike bags and luggage.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Receive a gallery of lifelong memories with incredible images taken by Beardy McBeard on tour.

GEAR

Complimentary Après Vélo souvenir t-shirt.

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare.
Airport transfers. This can be arranged at an additional cost.
Travel insurance.
Alcohol with dinner.
Bike hire (if required). We can arrange for you at an additional cost.
Refreshments at Café stops.
In-room hotel charges.
Derby Sauna.

PRE/POST TOUR ACTIVITIES

Launceston and Hobart offer a contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture, with world class activities and attractions nearby. We highly recommend a few extra days on either side of the Tour to discover these charming cities. We can arrange additional accommodation and activities for you if required.

LAUNCESTON

Launceston mixes city and country charms, with heritage streetscapes, a slice of urban wilderness and all the ingredients for a gourmet experience.

Tasmania's second city is one of only two in Australia to be named as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and its Saturday farmers' market is among the best in the nation.

One of the country’s oldest settlements, Launceston is dotted with beautiful city parks along the banks of the North Esk River and River Tamar.

The city’s cultural offerings are wide and diverse including Australia’s largest regional gallery, The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)

HOBART

Nestled amongst the foothills of Kunanyi / Mt Wellington, Hobart combines heritage charm with a modern lifestyle in a setting of exceptional beauty.

It's no wonder Lonely Planet has called Hobart one of the top ten spots to visit in the world right now.

With its captivating history, picturesque waterways, rugged mountains and gourmet experiences, the city has something for everyone. Things to see and do are plentiful. Here are but a few recommendations once the wheels stop spinning.