The best road cycling routes around Hobart

Hobart offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 50 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate loops to challenging climbs.

Yes, Hobart provides several easier options for road cyclists. There are 11 routes classified as 'easy' on komoot, perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. The Cedar River Trail – Cedar River Trail loop from Maple Valley is a moderate option that is shorter and less demanding.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, the ascent of kunanyi/Mount Wellington is iconic, offering significant elevation gain and breathtaking panoramic views. While not explicitly listed in the provided routes, the region's topography ensures many routes feature 'punchy climbs' and substantial elevation, such as the Southeast Green Valley Road – Foley’s Produce loop from Maple Valley which includes over 740 meters of elevation gain.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not detailed, the flat, scenic pathways along the Derwent River, such as sections of the Intercity Cycleway, are ideal for leisurely rides with family. These paths often connect to parks and attractions, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from heavy traffic.

Hobart's road cycling routes offer incredibly diverse scenery. You can expect dramatic mountain landscapes, expansive river estuaries, serene coastal roads, and picturesque rolling hills through farmlands. Routes like the 'Sandy Bay Riverside Roll' offer scenic tours along the River Derwent, while climbs up kunanyi/Mount Wellington provide panoramic views of Hobart, the Derwent Valley, and even Bruny Island.

Many of Hobart's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Southeast Green Valley Road – Foley’s Produce loop from Maple Valley, the Quiet and Smooth – Kanaskat-Kangley Road loop from Maple Valley, and the Kanaskat-Kangley Road loop from Maple Valley, all offering circular journeys through varied landscapes.

The best time for road cycling in Hobart is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from spring through autumn (September to May). Clear days offer the most spectacular views, especially from elevated points like kunanyi/Mount Wellington. However, the diverse terrain means there are enjoyable routes year-round, with riverside paths often being pleasant even in cooler weather.

Many road cycling routes in Hobart pass by or near notable attractions. Along the Derwent River, you can access the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. For natural beauty, routes might offer glimpses of Lake Wilderness or the Around the Lake Trail. Historic sites like Richmond are also accessible via scenic routes through farms and forests.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Hobart, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's dramatic landscapes, diverse terrain, and the variety of experiences available, from challenging mountain ascents to scenic riverside paths and rolling hills.

Yes, Hobart offers options for longer road cycling tours. The Southeast Green Valley Road – Foley’s Produce loop from Maple Valley is a substantial 89.6 km (55.6 miles) route, taking nearly 4 hours to complete. The Huon Valley, south of Hobart, also provides picturesque backdrops for longer rides with its rolling hills and coastal roads.

Absolutely. The expansive Derwent River provides numerous flatter, scenic routes. The Intercity Cycleway runs along the Derwent River, passing under the Tasman Bridge and offering access to various points of interest. The 'Sandy Bay Riverside Roll' is another example of a scenic tour along the River Derwent, primarily utilizing bike lanes and quiet roads.

Yes, the Huon Valley, located south of Hobart, is a popular destination for road cyclists. It offers stunning 'Tuscan-like' rolling hills, farmlands, and serene coastal roads, providing a picturesque backdrop for longer rides. Routes like the 'Channel Loop' (available in short and long versions) offer challenging climbs and beautiful coastal scenery in this area.

East of Hobart, the historic town of Richmond can be reached via pleasant cycling routes. These routes typically wind through farms and forests, offering a glimpse into Tasmania's heritage alongside scenic rural landscapes, making for a culturally enriching ride.

While primarily focused on road cycling, some routes in the Hobart area can incorporate gravel sections, catering to those who enjoy mixed-terrain cycling. The region's diverse topography, especially in the foothills of Mount Wellington, sometimes includes these types of paths, offering a different kind of challenge and 'big views'.