Sydney's Best Cycling Routes

Words: Scott McAllister | Pictures: Charlie Coquillard | Featuring ambassadors EJ MacDonald & Jon Odams

Do you know a better way to explore a city than on a bike? Sydney is an iconic destination for outdoor lovers — and for cyclists, there’s a never ending range of routes to explore.

With cycling spots in Wollongong, Central Coast, Southern Highlands and Blue Mountains on your doorstep, you’ll always have something new. Every road leads to another new experience, or some of the best cafes and scenery in the World.

1. Akuna Bay

An iconic road ride on Sydney’s North side through Ku-Ring-Gai National Park with beautiful bushland vistas and steep ascents. Add the West Head loop for a drink stop overlooking Palm Beach with views all the way to the Central Coast. Checkout the entire ride.

2. Sydney City to Ettalong

An absolutely memorable day out on the saddle. Head to Palm Beach, jump on the ferry across to Ettalong, then loop back down to Sydney along the Old Pacific Highway — rolling hills and light traffic all the way. Checkout the cycling route.

3. 3 Gorges

Over 1,800 meters of elevation gain — this ride isn’t for those looking for a casual Sunday pedal. Head up to Hornsby, into Berowra Valley National Park, across the stunning Berowra Waters, and back down to Wahroonga. Checkout the cycling route.

4. Royal National Park Loop

The jewel in Sydney’s southern cycling crown. Boasting the oldest nature reserve in Australia, loop through Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, attack McKell Avenue climb, and roll back to Sydney along the Princes Highway. Make it a full day out. Checkout the entire route.

5. Eastern Beaches

A 40km loop through Surry Hills, past the Opera House, through Rose Bay, Potts Point and Watsons Bay, back via Dover Heights to Bondi Beach. Perfect Sunday recovery ride. Checkout the loop.

6. Cape Solander

A 70km loop of Sydney’s huge Botany Bay — Southern Cross Drive, past the airport, through Brighton-le-Sands, over the Captain Cook Bridge into Sutherland Shire and out to Kurnell. Checkout the entire ride.

7. Windsor to Wisemans Ferry

A scenic 100km road ride from the historical suburb of Windsor through national parks circling the Hawkesbury river. See Australia’s oldest river crossing ferry. Checkout the cycling route.

8. 4 Peaks Loop (Near Bowral)

The Southern Highlands, a few hours South of Sydney. Sits close to 700m above sea level — includes local favourite Mount Gibraltar at almost 860m. Rolling hills, countryside, and an amazing meal waiting at the end. Checkout the entire route.

Ambassador Picks — EJ MacDonald | Wollongong & South Coast

9. Wollongong to Nowra & Kangaroo Valley Loop

Ride south past Kiama and Gerringong with rolling hills and beach views, to the iconic Jervis Bay, then head into Kangaroo Valley on long winding climbs with views to die for. Checkout EJ’s route.

10. Wollongong to Gerringong Loop

Over 100kms of the best coastal riding imaginable through Kiama and Gerringong, famous for its rolling green farms and iconic sandy surf beaches. Checkout EJ’s route.

Sydney is best seen on a bike — whether riding around the famous harbour, or spending a day exploring the many national parks.