Let’s face it, a lot of people go on holidays to get away from their life at home. They could be hoping to escape the monotony of their job, wanting to try something new, or just chasing a change in weather or scenery.

For bike riders, it’s a chance to do more of what we get to do at home – ride our bikes longer, faster and in a different spot! But where is the best place to test your legs and lungs? Is it the bucolic rolling hills and mountain ranges that are often found inland? Or is it cruising coast roads with a gentle sea breeze at your back and a swim promised at the end of a ride? What about a bustling city, where the rides are sure to be fast and furious, with a cracking café park up at the end?

If you’re struggling to decide, Bike Hotels is here to help. Let’s break down each option for you.

Inland

We’ve had some of our best rides away from the city or the coast. When you throw your leg over a bike inland, you know you’re going to have quiet, peaceful roads, beautiful and diverse scenery, and you’re likely to see a fair bit of unique wildlife.

Some of Australia’s best routes are in our alpine regions – either the Snowy Mountains or the indominable slopes of Falls Creek and surrounds. We’re lucky to have the Great Dividing Range on the eastern side of the country, which runs for 3,500 kilometres. If you can’t find something challenging and spectacular along there, then you’re not looking hard enough!

And what about Australia’s outback? You could ride in a long, straight, flat line for days on end without seeing anyone…actually maybe that doesn’t sound too fun, sorry to all you IndyPac racers.

The point is, there are endless options for riding in rural and remote areas. You can find mountains, you can do rolling hills or you can go on the flat. There’s gravel, tarmac, fire road and sand. There are also plenty of wineries…

Coast

Nothing beats cycling when there’s a sea of blue on one side. You feel so free and inspired to see what’s around the next bend, what’s over the upcoming incline.

Cyclists with family or friends who aren’t fond of riding will probably prefer to spend their holiday at the beach than a shack in the High Country, which is more points for costal getaways – everyone’s happy.

As bike riders, we’re used to getting up early and experiencing the sights and sounds few others are accustomed to. Whether it’s a kookaburra’s first cackle in the morning or the way the shadows lengthen and shrink, mornings are owned by cyclists.

If you’re on a bike holiday near the coast, there is nothing like hearing waves crashing to the backdrop of a freewheel flying down a hill. Bliss! And let’s not forget about how a sunrise or sunset can transform a coastal scene from one of blue action, to absolute romance. Bike riders are here for those scene too!

City

Cities often get a bad rap when it comes to cycling…particularly when it comes to cycling holidays. Hotel rooms are too small, roads are too crowded, drivers are hostile and the local cycling community is unfriendly.

Well, sometimes it’s important to see a city beyond its reputation. You’ve got to get out there and explore it for yourself if you’re looking to pass judgement. All of Australia’s main cities have a dedicated cycling culture just waiting for you to experience.

Whether it’s Hobart’s tranquillity, Melbourne’s expanse, Sydney’s hustle, Brisbane bushiness, Darwin’s heat, Perth’s pros, Canberra’s quietness or Adelaide’s diversity, Australia has many well-trodden cycling paths.

The best thing about riding in cities is that you don’t need to be very well organised. There are plenty of resources, bike shops, established groups and well-known loops for you to explore on arrival. Let’s not forget cafés either! If you don’t like a café in the city, just cross the road to another.

How do I choose?

Well there you have it. A quick summary of three different bike-friendly holiday destinations. How do you choose where to take your bike? Easy…everywhere! The reality is, every holiday with a bike is a good holiday. Just be safe and courteous, and make sure you have a great time off the bike as well as on it.