A cyclist’s guide to exploring Tasmania

When thinking or hearing of Tasmania, natural beauty is definitely the first thing that comes to mind. From deep green forests to tranquil countryside, coastal vistas, and rugged terrain — it takes the cake for stunning landscapes no matter where you go. It’s an added bonus that the towns are just as picturesque.

So what better way to experience it than en route on your bike? Whether you’re based in Hobart or exploring through Swansea, Launceston, and Devonport, there are cycling tracks and biking routes for every rider’s level of experience. So get ready to pedal your way through the best spots Tassie has on offer. Enjoy the ride.

Start simple with a leisurely cycle along Hobart’s iconic waterfront, where you can hire a set of wheels from Hobart Bike Hire. Stop for seafood, find local gems at the Salamanca Market, and soak in the serenity of Battery Point. This street-pedalling route offers a blend of historic architecture, lush parks, and showcases Hobart’s local produce and products.

If you’re looking to add some more nature to your Hobart tour, there are plenty of routes to scratch the itch. Take your bike up Mount Wellington on a beginner-friendly cycle, where you’re welcomed to signature panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those seeking a longer ride, venture out to the Huon Valley, where you can explore small towns, apple orchards, rolling farmlands, and wineries. Pinot and pedal anyone? You can hire from Huon Bikes.

And for our avid cyclists, take a ride along these popular bike routes such as the Bury Me Standing loops from Mount Stuart or Blackmans Bay, the Cascades Female Factory loop from Tolmans Hill, and the bike loop from Tranmere.

Get your coastal fix and travel east to Swansea — the seaside town nestled on Oyster Bay shores is a hub for scenic cycling routes and tours. Ride along the iconic Great Eastern Drive for stunning views of this rugged coastline and serenity-inducing beaches. Don’t forget to take pit stops at wineries to sample the signature Oyster Bay Sauvignon blanc and naturally, the freshly shucked oysters.

Our top pick is the ride through Freycinet National Park and cycle along its Walk and Cycle track through Ranger Creek to Wineglass Bay. It’s here you’ll witness sweeping views of Mount Baudin, Mount Dove, and Mount Amos, and the boulder-studded range, The Hazards. This is considered a low-speed ride with little incline, and it is beginner-friendly as it’s on a shared path with walkers. So enjoy it at your own pace and soak in the cliff-to-sea panorama.

If your vacation takes you to Launceston, it’s a must to loop around the Tamar River. Following along the Tamar Valley Wine route, you can cycle along the scenic vineyards, orchards, and small towns. Make your way to Cataract Gorge Reserve for an afternoon of rest and relaxation — whether it's a stroll, a chairlift ride, or a local bite to eat. Leisure in the outdoors never looked so good.

For those who want to ride a little longer, the North Esk River Trail is your best bet. Similar to the Tamar River loop, it offers picturesque countryside landscapes while showcasing historic landmarks such as the Blue Reach Power Station.

And for budding adventurers who want to take their cycle skills to the next level? Meet Blue Derby — a hub for mountain bike riders. An hour and a half from Launceston is the mining town Derby, which now plays home to avid riders exploring a range of mountain trails within lush temperate forests.

Picture yourself cycling through the idyllic port town of Devonport, nestled along the island’s northwest coast. This cycle-friendly town is home to a stunning foreshore — the perfect backdrop for a seaside bike ride.  As you pedal along the Devonport Cycling and Walking Track, stop by popular local spots including Mersey Bluff Lighthouse and the  Maritime Museum. This 12km trail provides the perfect mix of coastal scenery and calming countryside — a great choice for a relaxing afternoon of cycling.

Tasmania is nothing short of places to cycle, and this is only the cusp of what’s on offer. With trails and routes for all levels and across every terrain, you can take its complex and rich landscapes from the coastlines to the mountain ranges. So grab your bike, hit the road, and discover the beauty of Tasmania on two wheels.

Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.