Bicycle Network Victoria: Ride On magazine

Planning a social bike ride in the midst of a Victorian winter is a risky proposition, especially when the destination is South Gippsland. It might just be a coincidence, but every time I visit this region the heavens open to gift the countryside with torrential rain and gale force winds. Today, as we drive from Melbourne to Leongatha, there’s a light misty rain and fog so thick that visibility is difficult on the winding hilly roads. I’m fervently hoping the weather will improve before I leave the warmth of the car and start riding.

The Great Southern Rail Trail runs 49km from Leongatha to Foster, through rich farmlands and forests and via the appealing country towns of Koonwarra, Meeniyan and Fish Creek. You can ride the entire length in either direction, but if you start in Leongatha there is the added advantage of downhill gradients at the start and finish of the ride.

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