Tasmania East Coast Gravel Cycling Tour

Embark on an inspiring 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 450km tour offers challenging climbs, 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 luxury 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 to experience Tasmania in its most raw, untamed, and awe-inspiring form on a bike and embrace the Après Vélo lifestyle

TOUR OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day gravel cycling adventure from Launceston to Hobart, where every turn of the pedal propels you through Tasmania’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes. This epic journey traversing the East Coast offers seriously good riding, with winding gravel roads that weave through lush temperate rainforests, rugged coastal cliffs, and remote highland plateaus. You'll conquer long, grinding climbs that reward you with sweeping ocean vistas and exhilarating descents that carve through valleys teeming with native wildlife. Each day presents a new and diverse challenge, but every hard-earned kilometre fuels the sense of achievement that makes this ride truly extraordinary.

As you push forward, the scenery unfolds in a mesmerizing display of contrasts—one moment, you’re tracing the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of the Bay of Fires, and the next, you're climbing into the misty heights of the hinterland forests, enveloped by towering ferns and ancient eucalypts. The ride is an inspiring journey, demanding resilience yet offering countless moments of pure exhilaration.

The final reward for your epic journey is rolling into the stunning Bangor Vineyard, where a well-earned farewell lunch awaits.

This is a trip for adventure seekers that will create fond memories for a lifetime.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS TRIP?

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

COASTAL SERENITY

Join us to experience the raw beauty of gravel cycling along the Freycinet coastline, where secluded trails wind between turquoise bays, granite peaks, and pristine beaches. This unforgettable ride offers a perfect blend of coastal serenity and rugged adventure through one of Tasmania’s most iconic national parks.

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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: THE ICONIC MT BARROW TO DERBY

DISTANCE: 94km
ELEVATION: 1878m

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

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 Springfield and Scottsdale with an amazing descent to our secluded picnic spot amongst towering pine trees.

Next up, 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 journey takes us to the historic town of Derby, following 10km of smooth single-track ideal for gravel bikes. Once a thriving tin mining town, Derby has reinvented itself as a world-renowned mountain biking destination - making it the perfect place to arrive on two wheels.

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 (Pre-bookings are highly recommended. Please let us know if you would like us to make a booking on your behalf).

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.

DAY 3: THE MAJESTIC BAY OF FIRES

DISTANCE: 75km
ELEVATION: 1310m

Start the day with breakfast at a local café before exploring Derby’s gravel bike-friendly trails, including Lake Derby, The Tunnel, and Chain Gang. From there, we ride along scenic country roads and white-crushed granite gravel through the rustic towns of Winnaleah and Pioneer, making our way toward St Helens—unveiling the stunning beauty of Tasmania’s East Coast.

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.

DAY 4: CHAIN OF LAGOONS/FREYCINET

DISTANCE: 75km
ELEVATION: 1450m

We begin the day rolling out from the charming seaside town of St. Helens along a scenic gravel bike track, offering stunning views across the bay. From there, we ascend into the hills, where breathtaking coastal vistas from Loila Tier await. A thrilling gravel descent leads us to Upper Scamander, where we cross the river before tackling another climb up to St. Mary’s. Exiting the town, we take on one of Tasmania’s most famous and exhilarating descents - Elephant Pass - before arriving at the stunning Chain of Lagoons. Here, we cool off with a refreshing dip in the ocean and change into fresh clothing, ready for the next chapter of our adventure.

Thereafter a 1-hour transfer to Freycinet.

Whilst it’s a slightly shorter riding day, 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.

DAY 5: FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

DISTANCE: 30km
ELEVATION: 700m

After breakfast, we set off for a picturesque ride through the Coles Bay Conservation Area and the renowned Freycinet National Park.

The journey takes us to the rugged beauty of Blue Stone Bay and The white water walls, before heading to the iconic Tourville Lighthouse, offering sweeping views of Tasmania's stunning East Coast. Along the way, we’ll make use of dedicated bike tracks and smooth "champagne gravel" roads.

Explore the beaches of Coles Bay, riding along the shoreline with the Hazzards rock formations towering above. Can it get any better?

Following the ride, we’ll transfer to Piermont Estate, our home for the night. Nestled in an untouched bay amidst breathtaking wilderness, this sanctuary offers the perfect spot to unwind and soak in Tasmania’s remote East Coast charm.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Piermont Estate.

Accommodation: Piermont Estate.

DAY 6: MARIA ISLAND

DISTANCE: 35-40km
ELEVATION: 700m

After breakfast we will transfer to Triabunna, gateway to the wildlife sanctuary of Maria Island National Park.

Upon arrival in this scenic portside town, we take the ferry to Maria Island, blending extraordinary landscapes with teeming wildlife and no permanent population.
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, where our home for the night is Spring Bay Mill, a collection of sustainably crafted pods, perfect for Après Vélo adventurers embarking on a journey together.

Accommodation: Spring Bay Mill.

Dinner: Provided by Après Vélo at Spring Bay Mill.

DAY 7: THE VINEYARD RIDE

DISTANCE: 69km
ELEVATION: 1200m

Get ready for a rewarding and adventurous ride as we roll out from our accommodation, heading south towards the stunning Bangor Vineyard - a renowned, family-owned gem near Dunalley.

The journey takes us along the serene and scenic gravel roads of Tasmania's East Coast, passing through the charming seaside villages of Orford and Spring Beach before heading into the shaded paths of Wielangta Reserve.

Brace yourself for some challenging climbs, rewarded by breathtaking vistas as we emerge into the rolling pastures of Bream Creek. Here, panoramic views of Marion Bay and Hellfire Bluff await.

The ride levels out, offering a chance to cool off with a refreshing dip at Dunalley Beach before capping the day with a well-deserved farewell long lunch at Bangor Vineyard, overlooking the tranquil waters.

After our celebration, transport will be provided for both bikes and riders back to Hobart, leaving you free to relax and make the most of your Friday evening.

Long Farewell Lunch: Shouted by Après Vélo

Dinner: Free to do as you choose

Accommodation: Hotel Lenna, Hobart.

DAY 8: 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).

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.