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Cycling Sydney: Six Unmissable Routes to Explore the Region - MapMagic Blog

Cycling Sydney: Six Unmissable Routes to Explore the Region

Sydney and its nearby areas have a mix of cityscapes and nature spots perfect for cyclists. If you enjoy exploring on bikes, you’ll love discovering hidden treasures here. Whether you’re a pro rider looking for excitement or a beginner wanting new paths, both Sydney and its outskirts have plenty of diverse trails to explore.

This guide will show you the beauty and challenges of Sydney. You can pedal through vast parks, serene lagoons, stunning beaches, and scenic national parks—all while enjoying the freedom of two wheels. So, whether you prefer a relaxing ride with lovely views or a more challenging route to get your heart pumping, we’ve got options for you.

When to Go

Weather in Sydney offers favorable cycling conditions throughout the year, though autumn and spring are probably the best:

Summer: Warm to hot temperatures, with average highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Ideal for early morning or late afternoon rides, but occasional heat waves occur.

Autumn: Mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. Fewer extreme heat events make for comfortable riding conditions.

Winter: Relatively mild temperatures, averaging from 8°C to 18°C. Mornings and evenings may be cooler, with increased rainfall requiring preparation for occasional showers.

Spring: Mild temperatures, ranging from 14°C to 23°C. Blooming flora adds to the appeal of cycling, with longer daylight hours for exploration.

6 Must-Ride Cycling Routes

3 GORGES

Distance: 92 km with 1258 elevation gain

Experience one of northern Sydney’s most renowned cycling routes and take on the three gorges: Bobbin Head, Berowra Waters, and Galston. As you pedal through breathtaking bushland, alongside rivers, and past picturesque countryside, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature, completely forgetting how close you are to the bustling city. 

Josh Kwan Sydney Cycling Guide: Three Gorges
PALM BEACH

Distance: 84 km with 1074 m elevation gain

Palm Beach (known as “Palmie” among locals) is a popular destination for cyclists because of its scenic route. However, there are some challenges along the way, like narrow sections. To have a better ride, it’s a good idea to start cycling early to avoid the busy times when traffic around the beach can be heavy. This way, you can enjoy the coastal scenery without dealing with crowded roads.

I Love Walks & Rides 4K Palm Beach Australia Bike Ride – Beach to Mangroves – Virtual Ride on eMTB
ROYAL NATIONAL PARK LOOP

Distance: 71 km with 1200 m elevation gain

Representing the Southern side of Sydney, the jewel of cycling lies in Sydney’s Royal National Park, spanning a vast and diverse region along the coast between Sydney and Wollongong. As Australia’s oldest nature reserve, this park draws hikers, mountain bikers, surfers, road riders, and nature enthusiasts alike.

You can follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, winding through towering gums within the park, before tackling McKell Avenue for a climb back up to Waterfall. The return journey to Sydney along the Princes Highway offers a leisurely rolling ride.

For a memorable day out, pack ample food and consider exploring the park’s numerous detours for stunning coastal views and serene rest stops.

Christopher Visvis Royal National Park Grav w/Kerry
AKUNA BAY

Distance: 74 km with 1198 m elevation gain

Akuna Bay is an iconic road ride on Sydney’s North side, offering beautiful bushland vistas, steep ascents, and cyclist-friendly roads through Ku-Ring-Gai National Park. Whether you’re cruising to enjoy the scenery or racing up technical climbs with friends, there’s something for everyone. Add the West Head loop for an extra challenge and stunning views of Sydney’s iconic Palm Beach. It’s one of Sydney’s best road rides, combining safe roads, amazing surroundings, and plenty of challenges.

Loud Kit Day! Akuna Bay Cycling Misadventure: Epic Fail & Year-End Wrap Up!
CHURCH POINT/MCCARRS

Distance: 63.5 km with 774 m elevation gain

One of the top picks among cyclists is the Church Point/Mccarrs route, offering flexibility with clockwise and anticlockwise options depending on your preference for the Mccarrs Road climb.

As you pedal through Church Point, the waterfront scenery unfolds for approximately 6 kilometers, creating a picturesque journey. Transitioning onto Mccarrs Road, you’ll find yourself immersed in bushland, surrounded by majestic gum trees.

For those seeking a longer ride, consider extending the route to Palm Beach. Conversely, starting or ending at Terry Hills is a convenient option to avoid traffic and shorten the journey.

Stephen Choy McCarrs Creek Rd (Church point to Terrey hills) uphill 10th Jan 2016
EASTERN BEACHES

Distance: 41.3 km with 872 m elevation gain

The Eastern suburbs of Sydney boast a blend of iconic beaches, parklands, and suburban streets. This 42 km loop offers an ideal option for a leisurely recovery ride or a full day of sightseeing in Sydney. Passing through Surry Hills and offering views of the Opera House, this road-cycling route showcases all the city’s notable landmarks. Continuing along, you’ll encounter the beautiful bays of Rose Bay and Potts Point, before reaching Watsons Bay, where Sydney Harbour meets the ocean at its southern tip.

Christopher Visvis Eastern Suburbs Cycling – Australia Day 2023

Places to Stay

The hotel selection depends on the routes you plan to cover and things you plan to do besides cycling. In the list below, there are hotels that offer secure bike storage and convenient access to the routes.

Manly Pacific Hotel : 55 North Steyne, Manly, Sydney NSW 2095 link instagram

PARKROYAL Parramatta: 30 Phillip Street, Parramatta, Sydney NSW 2150 link instagram

Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley: 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor, Sydney NSW 2756 link instagram

Q Station Sydney Harbour National Park: 1 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly, Sydney NSW 2095 link instagram

Quest Cronulla Beach: 1 Kingsway, Cronulla, Sydney NSW 2230 link instagram

Bike Rentals

MC Cyclery: 108 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033 link instagram

Jet Cycles: 80 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000 link instagram

Bonza Bike Tours: 30 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000 link instagram

Livelo: 197 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 link instagram

Centennial Park Cycles: Grand Drive, Centennial Park NSW 2021 link instagram

KBL Bikes: C/ Valldebanador, 2 08370 Calella link instagram

Cafe Stops

Below is the list of bike-friendly cafes for you to have a rest and recharge along the routes.

Pie in the Sky: 1296 Pacific Hwy, Cowan NSW 2081 link instagram

The Boathouse Palm Beach: Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach NSW 2108 link instagram

Audley Dance Hall: Audley Rd, Audley NSW 2232 link instagram

Shed Akuna Bay: General San Martin Drive, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase, NSW 2084 link instagram

The Waterfront Cafe & General Store: 1860 Pittwater Rd, Church Point NSW 2105 link instagram

Bondi Wholefoods: 517- 527 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 link instagram

If you encounter any errors or have extra routes, events, or locations to add to the guide, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your input is valuable to us, and we are enthusiastic about refining the guide for an improved experience.

Read more about adventuring in Australia:

7 Best Sydney Bike Rides with Josh Kwan & Anthony Nguyen

Cycling Australia: Exploring Geelong and the Surf Coast

Cycling Tasmania: The Insider’s Guide to Cycling the Island

Discover Australia’s Most Breathtaking Cycling Routes

Your Complete Guide to Cycling in Melbourne

Australia’s Top Hiking Trails You Must Experience

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