Cycle a Rail TrailView trips
4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 5 day self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 5 nights hotels and guesthouses

Price

6 daysfrom

$1910AUD

 
 
Trip Code: ESH

Trip highlights


  • Discovering the beautiful countryside of the Southern Highlands by e-bike
  • Wine tasting at cool climate vineyards
  • The natural sites of Fitzroy Falls, Belmore Falls and Echo Point, all in the Morton National Park
  • Sampling the local cheese, baked goods and berries
  • Staying in characterful hotels, with option to upgrade to deluxe accommodation

Pedal your way around the pretty towns of the Southern Highlands on this journey of discovery by bike. Skirting the edge of the Morton National Park with its escarpment, massive waterfalls and network of walking trails, the journey begins from the heart of Bundanoon Village. Taking the backroads between iconic towns, there is much to feast your eyes on as you pedal past grand estates, vineyards and green rolling hills. With the help of an e-bike, the hills are no problem, leaving you with plenty of time to linger over lunch, stop for wine tasting and explore the local sights. Discover Berrima's historic centre, take in the viewpoints at Fitzroy Falls, enjoy a lazy lunch at the Burrawang Hotel, browse the vast selection of books at Berkelouw Book Barn and immerse yourself in the Bradman Museum in Bowral. After checking into your characterful hotel, there are numerous superb restaurants dotted on the route to spoil yourself after a day of cycling and exploring. This really is the ideal way to discover this classic region just a couple of hours from Sydney.

Itinerary

On arrival in Bundanoon, make your way to your starting hotel. Check-in is generally from 2pm but if you are arriving earlier you may be able to leave your bags - please contact us for reception opening times. You will meet with our representative who will do a handover of the bikes. This afternoon, a great warm up cycle to Morton National Park. Pedal down to the park and explore the tracks on foot with walks ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hour return loops. Viewpoints are in abundance, with the most famous being the panorama that awaits at Echo Point. Return to your hotel for overnight accommodation.

Meals:  Nil

There is much variety in the cycle today. From Bundanoon you head along a beautiful route that follows a quiet country road all the way to Exeter where you can stop for a coffee. Continuing alongside the railway you cut right through the centre of Moss Vale. For shopping enthusiasts, there are great options for homewares and fashion. Leaving Moss Vale you detour off the road and along the Bong Bong cycleway to Burradoo. This shared path is mostly flat and takes you beside the Wingecarribee River where waterbirds can be spotted. From Burradoo to Bowral, you pass by grand estates and houses and along leafy streets. Out of Bowral the route takes you to the Centennial Vineyard which is worth a stop at the cellar door. Another great stop is at the Berkelouw Book Barn at the Bendooley Estate, with its fabulous selection of new and old books and cafe plus wine cellar. Not too far beyond is the historic village of Berrima where your overnight accommodation is located. After check-in, discover the village on the self-guided Berrima Heritage Walk which takes in the sandstone Berrima Courthouse and one of Australia’s oldest licensed pubs, the Surveyor General Inn where you can stop in for a drink. Another great walk is the Berrima River Walk on the lands of the Gundungurra people. The walk is signposted with interesting history and takes about 1 hour to complete (1.8km).

Meals:  Nil

The cycle route today follows a quiet road past hobby farms and grazing land. A decent hill awaits followed by a wonderful panorama of the Southern Highlands from the western perspective. Enroute to Mittagong, stop by the Artemis vineyard cellar door for wine tastings and in good weather, wood fired pizza for lunch (reservations recommended). A stop at the Southern Highlands Visitor Centre is an option as you pass through Mittagong, while art lovers may want to visit the Sturt Gallery. A long winding ascent takes you to the Bowral lookout where there is an expansive view of the highlands looking south. A final descent takes you to the wonderful town of Bowral with its gentrified country atmosphere. The town was home to Sir Donald Bradman, Australia's most famous cricketer, and the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame are located here. Overnight Bowral

Meals:  Nil

This is country cycling at its best with sweeping countryside vistas and rolling hills. The route takes you past farms and country estates, along tree lined avenues and into the town of Robertson, known for its famous pie shop, cheese shop and location of the film Babe. The town is perched above Macquarie Pass and the Illawarra Escarpment, and has a unique charm. An afternoon optional cycle to Burrawang Village with its pretty shopfronts and lunch in the garden at the pub is well worth the extra effort. (19km, +221m, -181m) Overnight Robertson.

Meals:  Nil

A superb day of cycling today which encompasses two of the great waterfalls of the region, country laneways and completion of the circuit at Bundanoon. The route starts with a downhill run all the way to the Belmore Falls carpark. Here you can park your bike and walk the short distance to the viewing platform. Returning to your bike you continue along a forest road to the top of the falls before a long uphill stretch. The next stop is Fitzroy Falls where there are a number of walks taking you to various viewing platforms. The visitors centre has a cafe and its a great place to have a picnic lunch. The rest of the route to Bundanoon is classic Highlands scenery and passes through the quaint hamlet of Exeter, before you roll into the last stop Bundanoon.

Meals:  Nil

After checking out of the hotel this morning, the trip concludes.

Meals:  Nil


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 5 nights room only in hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with private facilities on most nights. Upgrade available to deluxe standard with 4 breakfasts included - supplement applies
  • Luggage transfers
  • Navigational App and route maps
  • Premium E-Bike rental for days 1-5, pannier and helmet
  • Personal bike handover

  • Travel to and from Bundanoon
  • Accommodation before or after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature such as entrance fees, alcoholic beverages, car parking, towel etc
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals (except for the upgrade accommodation, breakfast is included on 4 out of 5 nights)

Bike information


Trail Surface


Accommodation


Grading

Introductory to Moderate  
4

This self guided trip involves 5 days of cycling over hilly terrain. Daily activity is usually between 3 and 5 hours but some days might be longer depending on your overall pace. Being a self guided trip you determine the pace and schedule. You will need an reasonable level of fitness and good health and be a confident and capable cyclist. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions which can also add to the timing and comfort of a trip, for example riding into a head wind will take more time than when the wind is behind you. There are sections of road riding and at times there is no verge. You will need to be comfortable and confident cycling on the road. High visibility clothing is essential. If you use a non electric bike, the grading on this trip is moderate.


Departure dates

Daily departures

Notes

DN1
This trip is not suitable for solo travellers. Please contact our team for alternative tour suggestions.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events or just tailoring a trip to suit your own needs - learn how you can tailor your own Customised Tour.

Priceper person from

$1910AUD

Options & Supplements*
  • No Bike Hire DiscountAUD$-250
  • Accommodation Upgrade pp (twin / double)AUD$380
  • Single SupplementAUD$640
*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Southern Highlands Cycle trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Videos

Historic Berrima - A Timeless Romance

Trip reviews


Why cycle with us

SELF GUIDED EXPERTS

As the pioneers of self guided active travel in Australia you can expect a seamless experience. Our quality tour notes and logistical expertise sets us apart and ensures a quality experience for you.

TRUSTED LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about cycling and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for you.

Quality services

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. We've sourced the highest quality bikes and most authentic accommodations so you can enjoy a stress free cycling trip.


Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips