Vineyard Routes: Cycle Touring and Tastings in Victoria

Victoria, Australia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class wineries. For cycling enthusiasts, the opportunity to combine scenic rides with wine tastings presents an irresistible adventure. In this article, we will explore the best vineyard routes for cycle touring in Victoria. Whether you are an avid cyclist or a casual rider, these vineyard routes offer a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty and exquisite wines.

Yarra Valley Cycling Route

Highlights:

• Distance: Approximately 35 km
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Scenery: Vineyards, rolling hills, rivers

The Yarra Valley is one of Victoria’s premier wine regions, and its picturesque landscapes make it an ideal destination for cycle touring. The Yarra Valley Cycling Route takes you through lush vineyards, charming towns, and along the meandering Yarra River.

Must-See Spots:

• Domaine Chandon: Famous for its sparkling wines and beautiful grounds.
• Yering Station: Victoria’s first vineyard with stunning views and a gourmet restaurant.
• Healesville Sanctuary: A great spot to see native Australian wildlife.

Suggested Itinerary:

1. Start at Lilydale: Begin your journey at the Lilydale Railway Station.
2. Ride to Yarra Glen: Enjoy the scenic ride to the heart of the Yarra Valley.
3. Visit Yering Station: Stop for a wine tasting and a delicious meal.
4. Cycle to Healesville: Continue to Healesville for more tastings and wildlife experiences.
5. Return to Lilydale: Head back to your starting point, completing the loop.

Mornington Peninsula Wine Trail

Highlights:

• Distance: Approximately 30 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Scenery: Coastal views, vineyards, olive groves

The Mornington Peninsula offers a unique blend of coastal scenery and rolling vineyards, making it a perfect location for a vineyard cycle tour. The Mornington Peninsula Wine Trail is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent wineries.

Must-See Spots:

• Red Hill Estate: Offers panoramic views of the vineyards and the coast.
• Montalto: Known for its beautiful gardens, sculpture trail, and fine wines.
• T’Gallant: A popular spot for wine tastings and wood-fired pizzas.

Suggested Itinerary:

1. Start at Dromana: Begin your ride at the coastal town of Dromana.
2. Cycle to Red Hill: Enjoy the scenic climb to Red Hill, stopping at Red Hill Estate.
3. Visit Montalto: Explore the gardens and enjoy a wine tasting.
4. Continue to T’Gallant: Savor some of the best wines and food in the region.
5. Return to Dromana: Ride back to Dromana, taking in the coastal views.

Macedon Ranges Vineyard Circuit

Highlights:

• Distance: Approximately 45 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Scenery: Vineyards, forests, historic towns

Macedonia’s mountain ranges are known for their cool climate wines and picturesque landscapes. Of the vineyard routes, this route is perfect for those looking for a more challenging ride combined with the opportunity to explore some of Victoria’s best wineries. The Macedon Ranges Vineyard Circuit offers an adventurous tour through the beautiful countryside.

Must-See Spots:

• Hanging Rock Winery: Offers spectacular views of Hanging Rock and excellent wines.
• Mount Macedon Winery: Known for its boutique wines and stunning location.
• Kyneton Ridge Estate: A family-run vineyard with a welcoming atmosphere.

Suggested Itinerary:

1. Start at Woodend: Begin your journey in the charming town of Woodend.
2. Cycle to Hanging Rock: Enjoy the scenic ride and visit Hanging Rock Winery.
3. Ride to Mount Macedon: Continue your tour with a stop at Mount Macedon Winery.
4. Head to Kyneton: Visit Kyneton Ridge Estate for more wine tastings.
5. Return to Woodend: Complete your circuit back in Woodend.

Rutherglen Wine Region Trail

Highlights:

• Distance: Approximately 40 km
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Scenery: Vineyards, Murray River, historic sites

Rutherglen is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, known for its fortified wines and rich history. The Rutherglen Wine Region Trail offers a delightful mix of wine tasting and scenic cycling. This vineyard route will take you through some of the most historic vineyards in Victoria.

Must-See Spots:

• Campbells Wines: Famous for its fortified wines and historic cellar door.
• All Saints Estate: Known for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Wahgunyah: A historic town on the banks of the Murray River.

Suggested Itinerary:

1. Start in Rutherglen: Begin your tour in the heart of the wine region.
2. Cycle to Campbells Wines: Enjoy a tasting and explore the historic site.
3. Ride to All Saints Estate: Visit this iconic estate for wine tastings and a stroll in the gardens.
4. Head to Wahgunyah: Cycle along the Murray River and explore the historic town.
5. Return to Rutherglen: Complete your ride back in Rutherglen.

Bellarine Peninsula Wine and Ride Trail

Highlights:

• Distance: Approximately 35 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Scenery: Coastal views, vineyards, farmland

The Bellarine Peninsula is a hidden gem, offering beautiful coastal views and charming vineyards. The Bellarine Peninsula Wine and Ride Trail is perfect for those looking for a leisurely ride with plenty of opportunities for wine tasting. This vineyard route provides a peaceful and scenic ride.

Must-See Spots:

• Scotchmans Hill: Known for its premium wines and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.
• Terindah Estate: Offers panoramic views, fine wines, and a gourmet restaurant.
• Jack Rabbit Vineyard: A popular spot for its wines and breathtaking views.

Suggested Itinerary:

1. Start at Queenscliff: Begin your journey in the historic coastal town of Queenscliff.
2. Cycle to Scotchmans Hill: Enjoy a tasting and the scenic views.
3. Visit Terindah Estate: Savor fine wines and a gourmet meal.
4. Continue to Jack Rabbit Vineyard: Take in the breathtaking views and sample more wines.
5. Return to Queenscliff: Ride back to Queenscliff, enjoying the coastal scenery.

Victoria offers an array of cycling routes that allow you to explore its world-renowned wine regions on two wheels. From the lush Yarra Valley to the historic Rutherglen, each route provides a unique blend of scenic beauty and exceptional wines. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, these vineyard routes offer an unforgettable experience. So, grab your bike, embark on a cycling adventure, and indulge in the finest wines Victoria has to offer.

So, gear up, plan your trip, and get ready to discover the Great Ocean Road by bike. For more tips and detailed guides on cycle touring, check out our other articles on Discover the Great Ocean Road by Bike – A Complete Guide. Happy cycling!