Five of the best victorian cycling roads you probably haven't heard of
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I’ve written previously about some of Victoria’s most iconic and well known bike rides. But what about those roads less travelled? Where are those hidden gems that most people don’t know about? Here are five of the best Victorian cycling roads you probably haven’t heard of.
Mansfield-Whitfield Road
A quiet, meditative journey awaits you on Mansfield-Whitfield Road, and one of the most thrilling descents I’ve done anywhere. This double lane of bitumen climbs to about 800 metres, where it begins its gentle, winding route through tracts of moist eucalypt forest. Look out for wattles in flower in late winter and spring, and the chirping of wrens. The two times I have done it there has been very little traffic, and the surface is well made and smooth. If you’re heading towards Whitfield, you will finish with a long, flowy descent and some cracker views over the King Valley. Mansfield-Whitfield Road is sure to put a smile on your face, and makes up part of the Melbourne to Canberra route on ACV.
Hughes Creek Road
Tucked away in the Ruffy Highlands, this little-used gravel gem unfolds like a story book. Its name changes along along the way, at different times being called Nolans Road, Tarcombe-Ruffy Road, Ponkeen Creek Road, and finally Hughes Creek Road. Starting in the locality of Ruffy, it rolls its way through high pastoral country, peaceful and bucolic, with some fun little downhills and striking granite outcrops. At times there are no fences next to the road, and you basically ride through farmer’s paddocks. It somehow feels far away, but it isn’t. It’s the perfect place to pedal and contemplate, to get lost in your thoughts. It finishes with a gradual downhill next to the charming Hughes Creek, a satisfying end to the story. Ruffy-Tarcombe Road is part of the Rougher Ruffy Rider route on ACV.
Turton’s Track
Hidden deep in the Otway Ranges, Turtons Track winds through a wonderland of ferns and towering mountain ash. From either way, a gentle descent is followed by a steady rise. The single lane of bitumen gets very narrow as it threads its way along the mountain slope, so be careful of oncoming traffic. But you’ll be treated to a cool and secluded area of temperate rainforest, and an immersive pedal through a special part of the world. Turton’s Track is part of the The Otway route on ACV.
Merton-Strathbogie Road
Merton-Strathbogie Road is like a flow trail for gravel riders. The descent starts gradually, in a peaceful section of forest, with sweeping corner after corner. Now that you’ve warmed up, it gets a little steeper and rougher, and if you stay loose, lean in with purpose, and take a chance or two, you’ll hardly have to brake. Merton-Strathbogie Road invites you to have some fun, sharpen your skill, lose some stress. As a bonus, it finishes right on the Great Victorian Rail Trail, which gives you plenty of options for more great riding.
Cambarville Road
Cambarville Road is well off the beaten track, but smooth enough to do on a gravel bike. Neither is it particularly steep, despite its high altitude. Wending its pleasant way through the Yarra Ranges, it’s a laid back tour through some of the most beautiful native forest you’re likely to see. Endless stands of tall mountain ash, groves of ferns, beech trees and shady creeks, and perhaps a lyrebird or two, every Victorian should experience this habitat. Cambarville Road connects to the rougher Royston Road or the smoother Snobs Creek Road (included in the map, right), both wonderful ways to ride through the length of the ranges and come out near Lake Eildon. Cambarville Road is part of the Mountain Ash and Hydro Power route on ACV.
