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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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