Bicycle Network Tasmania have built a collection of rides to include points of interest and navigation cues, powered by RideWithGPS.
To discover the perfect self-guided two wheel tour check out their Ambassador Routes and download the RideWithGPS app. From cruisy runs to laid back country touring, you will enjoy Northern Tasmania as if you had a savvy local along for the ride, one who knows the best shortcuts, the quietest streets and of course the place to stop for a coffee. To get started try the City Sights Launceston ride or White Hills Winery Loop.
City Sights Launceston
An easy 16km ride. Allow 1-2 hours including stops.
Pick your way through Launceston’s historic city streets and parks. Start at historic Brickfields Park, consider a stop at the Design Centre and coffee at Bread + Butter near City Park. Explore offroad paths along the levee banks taking the views of North Esk River and trails through Heritage Forest before enjoying an easy roll back to the CBD via the Tamar River. Check out the full itinerary here.
White Hills Winery Loop
A moderate to hard 35km ride. Allow 2-3 hours including stops.
Take a spin into the country and unwind as you cruise through picturesque sheep pastureland and vineyards just 10km from the CBD. A steady climb through White Hills leads to the exhilarating rush of a steep descent that delivers you to practically to the doorstep of acclaimed Josef Chromy Vineyard a homestead surrounded by landscaped gardens where you can sample cool climate wines and fresh local cheeses on the terrace overlooking the lake. Read more about this itinerary.
Experienced cyclists looking for longer or multi-day rides ex-Launceston, should also check out the Northeast Wineries Loop and Launceston to Devonport rides.
Experience the natural beauty of the River Tamar with a riverside cycling route. This self-guided route is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the River Tamar estuary from the comfort of your cycling saddle. Take in sights like the Tamar Island Wetlands, enjoy lunch and a chance to refuel in Rosevears. Don't forget your camera to capture some of the scenic vistas along the way.
Rosevears Hotel Ride
A moderate 22km ride. Allow 2-3 hours return including stops.
This popular cycling route takes the West Tamar Highway out of the CBD and Rosevears Drive turn off to Rosevears Hotel. Stop at Guerrilla Espresso van and take your pick of cellar doors that line the rolling hills along the estuary. Stop for lunch (and spectacular views) at The Ducks Bar or destination – Rosevears Hotel. Tip: the lead up to Rosevears is downhill, so be prepared to work off your lunch on the way home.
Cycling Community and Family Friendly Rides
TBUG - Tamar Bicycle Users Group are a not for profit organisation working towards building a strong cycling community. They organise regular rides for all capabilities from beginners to overnight tours.
They have a helpful map which is a great aid to planning a suitable and safe cycling route around Launceston.
Hub & Spoke: Popular day-rides and cycling routes ex Launceston
Pedal your way back in time on a day ride exploring nearby historic towns.
Longford’s main streets are lined with convict-era buildings, pubs, and antique shops ripe for fossicking and the picturesque village of Evandale is like a Glover painting come to life – and is animated every Sunday morning by a charming country market. Both routes are popular day rides from Launceston, but Evandale is the easier (shorter and flatter) of the two.
Off-road mountain biking adventures near Launceston
Live to shred? Try out local mountain-biking trails at Trevallyn, Kate Reed or Hollybank or venture a little further afield for serious thrills at Blue Derby and George Town.
Northern Tasmania is Australian undisputed mountain biking capital. Discover more MTB tracks, trails, and networks at discovertasmania.com.au
The best bike-friendly cafes in Launceston
No ride is complete without a pit stop – or two. These local haunts will welcome casual riders and ‘click clackers’ with open arms and excellent brews.
- Aromas Fine Foods 272 Charles St
- Blue Inc 2-4 Invermay Rd
- Boathouse Café 55 Lindsay St
- James Boags Brewery 39 William St
- Bread + Butter 70 Elizabeth St
- Du Cane Brewery 60/64 Elizabeth St
- Elias Café 240 Charles St
- Levee Food Co. 27 Seaport Blvd
- Café Mondello 242 Charles St
- Mud Bar 28 Seaport Blvd
- Prince’s Square Bar 164 Charles St
- Stillwater Restaurant 2 Bridge Rd
- Sweetbrew 93 George St
- Tio Rico 80 Paterson St
Bike shops and repairs in Launceston
Tune up or gear up at these highly recommended, locally owned bike shops.
- Roll Cycles
- Cycle 2
- Geard’s Cycles
- Cyclology
- My Ride
- Sprung
- PATO
100+ reasons to get on your bike in Launceston Launceston has 100km of off-road trails and on-road bike lanes to explore. Which makes getting from A to B by bike easier than you think.
Meet your local guide
This article was created in consultation with Malcolm Reid, Former President of TBUG (Tamar Bicycle Users Group). Malcolm has been riding bikes around Launceston for more than 20 years. He’s a passionate advocate for bike riding in the community and experienced bike-tour guide. He recently acquired his very first e-bike and loves that they’re making the fun and health benefits of bike riding even more accessible.