Tour de Oz: Best Aussie holidays you can do on two wheels

From gentle trips through foodie regions to adventurous mountain bike trails, there’s nothing quite like the camaraderie of biking in a group.

An island nation with over 823,000km of paved and unpaved roads, Australia is built for exploring… on two wheels. From steamy tropical jungles and hazy desert roads to crisp rugged cliff tops and winding country tracks, there are a plethora of places to visit on your next holiday. And whether it’s road, trail or mountain biking you love, discovering new landscapes on the back of a bike has never been easier. So grab your mates, make a playlist and get out there. Oh, and don’t forget a tennis ball (read on to find out why).

FOR ADVENTURERS: WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S SOUTHWEST

Sure, the southwest of Western Australia is generally known for its consistent surf breaks and world-class ocean sunsets, but did you know the diverse 1000km Munda Biddi Trail, which connects to Albany to Mundaring (near Perth), is actually one of the longest off-road cycle tracks in the world? The six-day Munda Biddi Cycling Adventure will help you explore more than 200km of it. Cruise through eucalyptus forests with towering jarrah and karri trees, cool off in the famous Greens Pool in William Bay National Park and then stop for a coffee (or two) in one of the regional towns you’ll glide through. And if you love a little shopping, don’t worry, this is a fully supported ride, so your pack will be waiting happily for you in your hotel room when you arrive. Australian Cycle Tours

FOR RELAXED TRAVELLERS: TASMANIA’S EAST COAST

Tasmania may be our smallest state, but the sheer number of natural wonders found within its coastal borders ensure it hasn’t got ‘small state’ syndrome. Choosing where to explore first can be a tough decision, but if you’re new to cycling, or just like to mix it up a little, then the seven-night Slow Tassie Sightseer is the way to go. Enjoy low-traffic, scenic cycling through Tassie’s country paths, as well as sightseeing to some of the island’s most beautiful natural and cultural attractions. Immerse yourself in the colours of the Bay of Fires and the stark beauty of Wineglass Bay, visit convict-built towns and spend time at Hobart’s (in)famous MONA. This guided tour is for lovers of slow travelling, where getting to your destination is just as important as the destination itself. All trails

FOR LONG-HAULERS: QUEENSLAND’S TOP END

With incredible options for cycling holidays across the state, it can be hard to choose which route to do in Queensland, however for those with a love of the outdoors, wildlife and… insect repellent, the Across Cape York Bike Ride has it all. Wide open spaces, dry savannah, winding rivers, tropical rainforests, as well as chances to encounter local wildlife in the bush (and in the local pie shops). You’ll also be exploring regional areas that are most definitely off the tourist trail. With an average of 70km cycling each day, this epic 10-day adventure is designed for those who know their way around a bike, though full support is offered alongside each ride. Mulga Bicycle Tours

FOR BEACHCOMBERS: NEW SOUTH WALES SOUTH COAST

From wetlands and hidden lagoons to wide, open beaches and dramatic coastlines, the NSW south coast boasts an impressive range of natural beachy wonders. The Family Pacific Cycle Tour explores a good-sized section of this area, from Thirroul to Kiama, over three relaxed days, taking you from beach to beach along the coast. You’ll also be able to visit Nan Tien Temple (the biggest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere), the Kiama blowhole and the many ice cream-laden townships along the way. And if you’re worried about carrying your luggage, don’t be – all of your bags will magically appear at your hotel each night. All you have to do is pedal… and eat ice cream. Bike Exchange

FOR NATURE LOVERS: SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S FLINDERS RANGES

To really get away from it all (yes, even your phone), hop on a mountain bike with some friends and explore one of the oldest parts of South Australia. The Flinders Ranges were first created over 800 million years ago and then covered by an inland sea. Today, while you may find the odd sea life fossil, you’re more likely to be transfixed by the size and majesty of Wilpena Pound and its surrounding landscapes. This 200km mountain bike ride will take you along old pastoral trails, beautiful private properties and stunning national parks, often through land that generally isn’t open to the public. And not only will all your bags be waiting for you when you arrive at your accommodation each day, but if you want to take it really easy you can do the daily 50km with pedal assist technology on an e-bike. (We won’t tell anyone.) Escape Goat Adventures

FOR HISTORY BUFFS: VICTORIA’S SOUTH GIPPSLAND

History and cycling might not seem like an obvious pairing but trust us, they go hand in hand on the South Gippsland Rail Trails Cycle Tour. Over four scenic, thigh-burning days you’ll explore Victoria’s recent past while you cycle on and round the Bass Coast and the Great Southern Rail Trails, both huge feats of engineering in the late 1800s and early 1900s. After cycling the quiet roads on Phillip Island and the beautiful Gippsland Strzelecki Ranges, you can also experience the life of a turn of the (last) century miner in the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi… not one for claustrophobics. Each day’s 32km rides will also take you through historic towns (hello, vanilla slice and meat pies) and rolling dairy country, before depositing you in your hand-picked accommodation each night. Australian Cycling Holidays

Before you go:

You’ve planned your trip, booked it all in and now what? It’s preparation time, says Melissa Maskery, Fitness First cycle coach and manager.

“The best way to enjoy yourself is to be prepared; the more fit you are when you hop on a bike, the less likely you are to injure yourself,” she says. “A good tip is to engage your core to help support your lower back.”

And don’t forget your recovery each night, she says. Give yourself a treat and stretch properly after the day’s ride.

“You will find your hamstrings and calves will get especially tight so it’s important to release these each night. Even using a tennis ball will work [to release your muscles] and a ball is so easy to travel with,” she says.

Lastly, she recommends checking with your doctor and mentioning any previous injuries. It could be as simple as strapping an old knee injury or paying more attention to particular muscles. This, she says, will help you enjoy your holiday without any nagging concerns.

This content was created in partnership with Set for Life.