GRAVEL CYCLING TOUR: LAUNCESTON TO HOBART

Cross Tasmania on Two Wheels – A Premier Gravel Experience
Challenge meets reward as you explore Tasmania’s wild heart on this 7-day, 6-night gravel cycling tour. From Launceston to Hobart, tackle 420km of remote, challenging terrain and 7214m of elevation—led by none other than Beardy McBeard. Enjoy iconic climbs like Jacobs Ladder, luxury stays, and a true taste of Tasmania’s rich culinary and wine culture.

TOUR OVERVIEW

This isn’t just a ride—it’s an epic journey off the beaten track through timeworn trails, alpine plateaus, and character-rich villages. Guided by Beardy McBeard, you'll traverse the remote Central Highlands and unwind in boutique and character rich accommodation each night. This unforgettable journey blends fully supported rides, exceptional food and wine experiences, and the kind of camaraderie that defines the Après Vélo spirit.

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

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS TRIP?

See our top reasons why this tour is a bucket-list experience.

SPECTACULAR GRAVEL TOUR!

The terrain on our Cross Tassie Gravel Adventure is as raw and rewarding as it gets— remote timeworn trails, sweeping alpine plateaus, and winding gravel tracks that cut through ancient forests and character-rich highland villages. Find your solitude as you disconnect from the noise and reconnect with the rhythm of the ride. It’s Tasmania laid bare—untamed, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1: LAUNCESTON LOOP

DISTANCE: 40km
ELEVATION: 400m

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.

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.
Ride Launceston like a local along the Tamar River bike tracks and out towards the vineyards. You’ll get a taste of some gravel in the aptly named white hills. It's a training ground for Tassie's finest cyclists so keep your eyes peeled for local talent.

Accommodation - Launceston Grand Chancellor.

Welcome dinner - Provided by Après Vélo

DAY 2: JACOBS LADDER RIDE

DISTANCE: 82.5km
ELEVATION: 1730m

We transfer towards the base of Jacobs Ladder, Australia’s most iconic gravel climb.

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

We will ride through the historic Georgian village of Evandale home to the Penny Farthing National Championships.

Embrace the rolling countryside with the Highland Plateau awaiting in the distance.

Accommodation - Woolmers Estate - a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significant cultural value.

Dinner - Provided by Après Vélo at Woolmers Estate.

DAY 3: THE HIGH COUNTRY RIDE

DISTANCE: 99.2km
ELEVATION: 1755m

It's time to head into the central highlands taking roads less travelled through the Liffey Conservation Area.

Also known as The Land of Three Thousand Lakes, the region is home to Lake St Clair and The Great Lake, Australia’s largest freshwater lakes.

We make our way towards the incredible Thousand Lakes Lodge, which was once used for training Antarctic expeditions, so remote and wild is the surrounding ‘moonscape’.

Accommodation - Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge – a place like no other.

Dinner - Provided by Après Vélo Thousands Lakes Wilderness Lodge.

DAY 4: THE HYDRO TIME-CAPSULE RIDE

DISTANCE: 88km
ELEVATION: 974m

Straight onto the gravel towards the Little Pine Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for native birds.

We traverse Tasmania’s hydroelectric past whilst enjoying spectacular scenery along the way.

We ride towards Tarraleah, a beautiful historic village built for the Hydro in the 1930’s and is like a time-capsule in the heart of Tasmania’s Central Highlands.

Accommodation - Tarraleah Lodge, an exclusive luxury lodge nestled in Tasmania’s Central Highlands.

Dinner - Provided by Après Vélo at Tarraleah Lodge.

DAY 5: THE VINEYARD RIDE

DISTANCE: 73km
ELEVATION: 1525m

Riding out of the highlands provides a long descent before arriving in the quaint Town of Ouse on the Derwent River.

The last 8km of this ride pays homage to Strada Bianchi with sweeping gravel roads through Tuscan like meadows and wine farms which hug the Derwent River. Truly memorable!

Our ride will finish at one of Hobarts finest vineyards for wine tasting, hosted by the owner, who will chat to us about viticulture and the wine business. Thereafter, a long lunch at the vineyard, shouted by Après Vélo.

Body & Bike transfer to Hobart thereafter.

Vineyard Wine Tasting & Lunch - Shouted by Après Vélo.

Accommodation - Lenna of Hobart Hotel - Hobart.

Dinner - Free to do as you please.

DAY 6: THE HISTORIC PIPELINE TRACK RIDE

DISTANCE: 38km
ELEVATION: 830m

We will cycle around the edge of Mt Wellington, through the historic pipeline track, meandering beneath the canopy of ancient trees and ferns.

Explore single tracks weaving through the lush cold climate rainforest. Waterfalls, Convict sandstone waterways and ferns make this ride truly unforgettable.

Accommodation - Lenna of Hobart Hotel - Hobart.

Dinner - Free to do as you please.

DAY 7: ADIOS TO TASMANIA

Unfortunately, your riding adventure through Tasmania's finest has come to an end. What a great opportunity to spend the weekend in Hobart.

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