Cycling

The Fleurieu Peninsula is a favourite for cyclists because of its access, its gentle terrain, the spectacular and diverse scenery, its dedicated bike paths, regular settlement, bike service centres and for its opportunities for discovery and relaxation.

The Fleurieu offers three hour rambles, day trips and extended rides. A few itineraries are suggested below:

Encounter Bikeway
A fun family ride between Middleton and the Bluff, beyond Victor Harbor. The path is mostly sealed and some sections suitable for toddlers on trikes and is all suitable for those wanting a gentle, sea-side cycle. It can be reached from many beachside car parks and it totals 15 kilometres or so. In winter, whales can be seen to advantage from low cliffs at Middleton and Port Elliot. The path is shared with walkers and roller-bladers. Download a copy of the Encounter Bikeway brochure [PDF 373KB] and map [PDF 319KB]

Strathalbyn and the Hills
From Strathalbyn, a four hour, 38 kilometre ride takes the rider into the hills, with its farms, creeks, scrublands and vistas. Take the Ashbourne Road, climbing over several kilometres to the lookout on Gemmell Hill for views across the plains to Lake Alexandrina and the sand dunes of Coorong National Park. Continue along the gum-lined road to Ashbourne. Fresh fruit is sold from roadside stalls. Turn toward Meadows, following Bull Creek as you wind your way steadily up hill through the valley. Near the crest, turn sharply right toward Paris Creek. A string of beautiful dams, farms, ruins, dry-stone walls and views of distant plains and lakes present as the road descends, almost continuously over the last 15 kilometres back into Strathalbyn.

Wineries and Beaches
A 52 kilometre ride begins at Noarlunga, crosses the Onkaparinga River and follows the coastal road along spectacular cliffs. At Moana, turn inland at Commercial Road to Maslin Beach (famed as Australia's first nude bathing spot). Continue to follow the coast via Blanche Point to Port Willunga and Silver Sands beach. Turn inland to Willunga, riding between fields of vines and almonds. Pick up the sealed bike path running between Willunga and McLaren Vale. Numerous wineries, restaurants and cafes offer refreshments; galleries and studios reflect the creative spirit of the district. Leaving McLaren Vale, detour into Old Noarlunga, one of the oldest settlements in the area. From here, follow River Road along the northern side of the Onkaparinga River back to Noarlunga Centre.