Eight walking and cycling adventures worth planning a holiday around

Looking for the best walking and cycling holidays in Australia?

From coastal bike rides and rail trails to rainforest walks and scenic cycling routes, some of Australia's most memorable outdoor adventures are located just moments from our parks. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a cycling-focused road trip or simply looking for a new place to explore, these destinations make it easy to spend more time outdoors and less time in the car.

From the Encounter Bikeway in Victor Harbor, South Australia to the rainforest trails of the Whitsundays and the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, here's where to find some of Australia's best walking and cycling adventures.

Best walking and cycling adventures near our parks at a glance

Coastal cycling along the Encounter Bikeway

Stretching along the Fleurieu Peninsula, the Encounter Bikeway is one of Australia's most scenic coastal cycling routes.

Connecting Victor Harbor, Port Elliot, Middleton and Goolwa, the trail follows dramatic coastline, sandy beaches and charming seaside towns. Riders can tackle shorter sections or spend a full day exploring the region at their own pace.

Along the way you'll find plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim, enjoy a coffee or simply take in the ocean views.

Highlights:

• Coastal scenery from Victor Harbor to Goolwa
• Suitable for a range of fitness levels
• Family-friendly sections
• Easy access to beaches and cafés

Exploring Batemans Bay by bike

The Batemans Bay Cycleway is one of the easiest ways to explore the NSW South Coast on two wheels.

Following the waterfront and connecting popular local attractions, the cycleway offers scenic views across the Clyde River, easy access to beaches and plenty of places to stop along the way. The mostly flat route makes it suitable for families, casual riders and anyone wanting to take in the coastline at a relaxed pace.

You can ride short sections or spend the day exploring the foreshore, local cafés and nearby beaches. If you're looking for inspiration on where to stop along the way, check out our guide to the best things to see and do around Batemans Bay by bike. Looking for more adventure? The popular Mogo Trails mountain bike network is also a short drive from the park.

Highlights:

• Waterfront cycling paths
• Clyde River views
• Family-friendly riding
• Beaches, cafés and picnic spots along the route

Family-friendly cycling in Moruya

The Moruya Cycleway is one of the South Coast's most accessible cycling routes.

Following sections of the Moruya River and connecting key parts of town, the cycleway provides an easy way to explore local parks, riverside scenery and the relaxed atmosphere that makes Moruya such a popular holiday destination.

It's ideal for families, casual riders and anyone looking for a slower-paced adventure.

Highlights:

• Flat, easy riding
• Family-friendly route
• River views
• Parks and picnic areas

Rail trails and mountain biking in Warburton

Warburton has become one of Victoria's most popular cycling destinations.

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail follows a former railway corridor through forests, farmland and picturesque Yarra Valley landscapes. For those seeking more adventure, the growing Warburton Mountain Bike Destination offers purpose-built trails designed to showcase the region's natural beauty.

Off the bike, you'll find riverside walks, wineries, local produce and welcoming country towns.

Highlights:

• Scenic rail trail cycling
• Mountain bike trails for various skill levels
• Yarra Valley scenery
• Walking tracks and picnic areas

Exploring East Gippsland on the East Gippsland Rail Trail

Stretching through forests, farmland and some of Victoria's most scenic countryside, the East Gippsland Rail Trail is a rewarding way to experience the region at a slower pace.

Following sections of a former railway line, the trail passes through charming country towns and diverse landscapes, making it suitable for everything from relaxed day rides to longer cycling adventures.

Whether you're looking to ride a small section or tackle a bigger journey, the trail offers plenty of opportunities to stop, explore and take in the scenery along the way.

Highlights:

• Scenic rail trail cycling
• Historic railway route
• Country towns and rural landscapes
• Suitable for a range of riding abilities

Exploring Geelong and the Barwon River Trail by bike

One of the easiest ways to explore Geelong on two wheels starts right behind Geelong Holiday Park.

The Barwon River Trail follows the winding river through parks, wetlands and riverside reserves, offering a scenic ride that's suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. The shared path network makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed ride while taking in the natural beauty of the area.

For guests wanting to explore further, the trail also connects to other cycling routes throughout Geelong, including paths leading towards the waterfront and Bellarine Peninsula. If you're looking for ideas on where to ride, stop and explore along the way, check out our guide to the best things to see and do around Geelong by bike. For longer cycling adventures, the nearby Bellarine Rail Trail offers a great way to explore the Bellarine Peninsula's coastal towns, wineries and local produce.

Highlights:

• Direct access from behind the park
• Scenic riverside cycling
• Shared paths suitable for families
• Connections to wider Geelong cycling networks

Walking beneath the rainforest canopy at Sea Acres

The Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk offers one of the Mid North Coast's most accessible and rewarding rainforest experiences.

Located within Sea Acres National Park near Port Macquarie, this elevated boardwalk winds through subtropical rainforest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the forest without tackling a challenging hike.

Towering trees, native wildlife and lush greenery make this a memorable walk for visitors of all ages. It's an easy way to experience one of Australia's most beautiful natural environments while staying close to the coast.

Highlights:

• Elevated rainforest boardwalk
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
• Native birds and wildlife
• Subtropical rainforest scenery

Rainforest walks and island views in Conway National Park

Conway National Park offers some of the Whitsundays' most rewarding walking trails.

The park's network of tracks winds through lush rainforest, leading to lookouts with sweeping views across the Whitsunday Islands and coastline. There are options ranging from shorter walks to more challenging hikes.

Highlights:

• Rainforest scenery
• Coastal lookouts
• Native wildlife
• Walking trails for various fitness levels

Waterfalls and walking trails in Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park is one of the Northern Territory's most iconic outdoor destinations.

Known for its waterfalls, swimming holes and walking tracks, the park offers a completely different landscape to many of Australia's coastal destinations. Visitors can explore monsoon forests, discover termite mounds and cool off beneath cascading falls.

Highlights:

• Waterfalls and swimming holes
• Nature walks
• Native wildlife
• Iconic Northern Territory landscapes

Ready to plan your next walking or cycling adventure?

Whether you're looking for a coastal ride in Victor Harbor, a rail trail escape in Lakes Entrance or a rainforest walk near Valla Beach, our parks put you close to some of Australia's best outdoor experiences.

Explore our parks and start planning your next getaway.

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