The best road cycling routes around The Hills

The Hills region is characterized by diverse terrain, offering road cyclists a mix of rolling hills, challenging ascents, and winding roads. You'll encounter varied landscapes, including forests, bushland, and open country, providing a dynamic cycling experience with significant elevation changes.

Yes, while The Hills are known for their challenging climbs, there are options for various skill levels. For instance, the Shepherd Mountain loop is a moderate route that provides a balanced ride through varied terrain. Additionally, regions like the Adelaide Hills offer trails such as the Amy Gillett Pathway, which is a scenic, flat, and paved 22km trail ideal for leisurely rides.

For those seeking longer and more challenging rides, The Hills offer routes with significant elevation gain. The Scenic Overlook – Cedar Park Sculpture Garden loop from Verizon is a difficult route spanning over 100 kilometers with substantial climbing. The Dandenong Ranges, for example, are known for challenging climbs like the '1 in 20' on the Mountain Highway and the 'Devil's Elbow'.

Road cycling in The Hills offers numerous scenic highlights. You can expect panoramic views from vantage points like Mount Lofty Summit in the Adelaide Hills, or ride through lush vineyards and native bushland. The Macedon Ranges feature volcanic plains, clear mineral springs, and winding roads through forests, while the Dandenong Ranges are famous for tall Mountain Ash forests and fern glades. The Perth Hills boast pristine bushland and scenic lookouts over the Darling Scarp.

While many routes in The Hills are geared towards more experienced cyclists due to elevation changes, some regions offer family-friendly alternatives. For example, the Macedon Ranges have options like the Romsey to Lancefield trail, which is 8 km long and cut off from road traffic. The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail in the Dandenong Ranges is also a popular 40 km trail suitable for various cyclists, passing through picturesque landscapes.

Yes, many road cycling routes in The Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Suburban SoCo Hills loop and the Pace Bend Park loop from Lakeway, both offering engaging circular rides through the region's varied terrain.

The road cycling routes in The Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the challenge of the climbs, and the beautiful natural scenery encountered along the way.

While specific route traffic can vary, regions like the Macedon Ranges are known for their quiet country roads, offering a more serene cycling experience away from heavy traffic. Exploring routes that are not main thoroughfares or are designated cycling paths can often lead to a less busy ride.

The best time for road cycling in The Hills often depends on the specific region, but generally, cooler climates are preferred for more comfortable riding conditions. Many areas offer pleasant conditions during spring and autumn. Some regions, like the Macedon Ranges, feature seasonally changing scenery, making different times of year appealing for different views.

Yes, for those interested in longer adventures, some regions within The Hills offer multi-day cycling experiences. The Mawson Trail in the Adelaide Hills, for instance, is close to 900 kilometers long, designed for touring bikes and traversing through forests, farmland, and historic towns. Similarly, the Kep Track in the Perth Hills is a multi-use trail suitable for multi-day adventures.

Many road cycling regions within The Hills are dotted with charming towns and villages that offer amenities. In the Adelaide Hills, you can ride through historic towns like Lobethal and Birdwood, which often have local establishments. The Macedon Ranges feature quaint towns like Daylesford and Kyneton with cafes and wineries. The Perth Hills also have heritage trails that incorporate picnic spots and link to historic pubs and cafes, such as sections of the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail.

There are over half a dozen road cycling routes available in The Hills, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. This includes routes like the Maul Hill loop from Verizon, which offers a moderate challenge.