2009 Great Escapade Route
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Set off from stunning Margaret River and traverse the varied landscapes of this beautiful corner of the world. Discover national parks, farming areas and winery country – and many special spots along the way. The route continues on through Karri Country before returning to the ocean where it all began.
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Pre-Ride Margaret River |
Warm up by the coast in glorious Margaret River and explore this sun-kissed region. Wander along the beach or grab a seat in a seafood restaurant. Start making friends over a glass of wine, the buzz is building as the start day nears. Can’t wait to hit the road! |
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Day 1 Margaret River to Bussleton |
Push off – it’s begun. Cycle along Caves Road, look out over grape country. Expect to see a few wineries – see 20! A single lane road winds along fields and rolling valleys, a canopy of trees overhead. What’s that smell? Chocolate! Is there time to stop here? Make camp by the beach in Busselton. |
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Day 2 Bussleton to Donnybrook |
Breathe in the fresh salty air and sweeping sea views. Call in at ritzy Geographe – bit different from your tent! Cut through Ludlow Tuart Forest to the old mill town. Strike up a conversation along the way. Detour through Peppermint Beach. Who’s up for coffee on the coast? |
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Day 3 |
Ride into pastoral scenery, freewheeling along winding roads. Have a chat as pedals spin, swap bike tips and admire the view. Enter the classic forests of the southwest. The sun shines, conversation flows and legs keep pumping round, round, round… Tune into BYK FM, wonder what the Entertainment crew have planned for tonight? |
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Day 4 |
Look sharp for emu buddies George and Mildred or quokkas in the Carter State Forest. Glide downhill, check out Donelly Mill before undulating roads pass Karri trees and into Manjimup. The tent’s up in no time, dinner is served and you’re talking up a storm – this camping thing’s a breeze. |
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Day 5 Manjimup to Pemberton |
Whizz through Karri plantations, this is fun! Try to catch sight of the steam railway stretching across trestle bridges – Pemberton awaits. The campsite is buzzing with anticipation – tomorrow is sleep in day, so tonight is party time. Find your mates and have a laugh together |  |
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Day 6 Pemberton - REST DAY |
Explore Karri Country. Wander through forests, take a winery tour or cast out a fishing line for catch of the day. Shimmy up the Gloucester Karri Tree, dive into Big Brook Dam or just snooze under a tree. There’s plenty to do and loads of new friends to do it with. |
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Day 7 Pemberton to Nannup |
Refreshed and raring to go again! Power through towering timbers and alongside winery lakes into the heart of the |
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Day 8 Nannup to Augusta |
Gear up for some serious cycling, it’s the longest day in the saddle. Cross Blackwood River and return to the coast at Augusta. Energise with tasty treats along the way – jellybeans, anyone? Wave to the vollies as you roll into Camp – you made it! It’s the last night, familiar faces everywhere and smiles all around. |
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Day 9 Augusta to Margaret River |
Loop the loop, travel in between spectacular coast, amazing forest scenery and homeward bound. Is this Australia’s best riding? Get back to where it all began, extend your stay to explore the region. Jump for joy – it’s been an incredible 537km of exhilarating adventure. See you next time! |
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