Tour De Great Victorian Rail Trail Self Guided

Make your own way to Mansfield*. Mansfield is nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps and surrounded by grazing land and mountain forests. The city has a number of interesting historical buildings dating back to its time as a stock route camp and gold mining town. Once in Mansfield you will meet with our concierge who will provide you with your bike and helmet (or BYO) and answer any questions you may still have. We will collect your luggage and transfer to the next hotel. Your journey starts with a nice easy ride to Bonnie Doon today. You will pass through the small town of Maindample where you may wish to stop at the Maindample Whistle Stop, a resting place in a local couple's garden that offers cold drinks and shelter out of the sun. Cycle across the impressive 385 metre bridge over Lake Eildon. Bonnie Doon was immortalised in the hilarious Australian classic movie "The Castle" and is a cute lakeside town. Overnight in Bonnie Doon. *Book a pre-tour night in Mansfield and arrive the day before your trip starts.Cycling distance: 21km, ascent: 105m, descent: 141m

Today you set off through farming country, cycling past rock outcrops, livestock and open farmlands. You will pass by the Merton service station, where you may wish to get a cold drink or ice-cream before the gentle ascent to Merton Gap. This is the highest point on the trail, and the spectacular views from the top are well worth the climb. From here it's a nice, long gentle descent all the way to Yarck, where you can stop for a lunch break. Continuing the ride there is one more gentle climb before you head into the scenic country town of Alexandra which recently celebrated its’ 150 year anniversary. Overnight at Corner Hotel in Alexandra. Cycling distance: 58km, ascent: 348m, descent: 429m

Today you head to the historic and thriving town of Yea. This area is rich pastoral and dairying area with the Yea River flowing around the town. There are a couple of small climbs this morning out of Alexandra for which you are rewarded at Eglington Gap, which has outstanding views back over Alexandra and the hinterland. From here you have a nice long gentle descent to Molesworth. Further along you will come to the 201 metre long Cheviote Tunnel the longest trail tunnel in Victoria. It was made from 675,000 bricks, which were handcrafted on site with local clay in 1889. We stay at the quaint and beautiful Peppercorn Hotel in Yea. The town has many historical buildings from the 19th century in good condition and worth a visit. Dinner is recommended in the hotel (Wednesday-Sunday only). Overnight at Peppercorn Hotel in Yea. Cycling distance: 37km, ascent: 279m, descent: 320m