Late last year, captivating scenery and a quest for adventure lured Bicycle NSW BUG (Bicycle User Group), Bike Leichhardt on an 8-day cycling tour through the Lachlan Valley region. Abundant in culture, hidden gems and heritage, the area offered the group varied trail options and an unforgettable ‘ABBA’ experience.
Sunday 8 Oct – Sydney to Canowindra
Bike Leichhardt Touring Group kicking off their Lachlan Valley cycle tour on the first night with a BBQ at Eddy's in Canowindra. (Photo: Bike Leichhardt)
Group members set off from Sydney by car and overnighted in Canowindra at Eddys Guest House and the Caravan Park, then drove to Eugowra where they could leave their cars for the duration of the trip. Judd the owner of the Fat Parcel Van generously provided spaces for parking at the rear of his premises.
Monday 9 Oct - Eugowra to Parkes (47 km)
Breakfast at the Fat Parcel in Eugowra and perfect weather added to the delightful cycling experience through Cookamidgera to Parkes. (Photos: Bike Leichhardt)
The ride to Parkes (47kms) took in gorgeous views of surrounding hills and farmlands. Unfortunately, the route had to be amended due to roadworks. On the upside, participants shared a tasty lunch at newly renovated facilities in the little Hamlet of Cookamidgera. (Photos: Bike Leichhardt)
Tuesday 10 Oct – Parkes to Trundle (64 km)
After a shaky start once again due to road closures riders took the gravel route toward Trundle (64 kms), overnighting at the old Trundle Hotel.
Thirsts were gratefully quenched on the verandah at the Trundle Hotel overlooking the widest streets in NSW. (Photo: Bike Leichhardt)
Wednesday 11 Oct – Trundle to Peak Hill (71 km)
The next day's 71 km challenging gravel ride to Peak Hill was on the hot side. Members staying at the Oasis Motel were relieved with a refreshing dip in the pool.
Later everyone gathered at the Services Club to celebrate the 81st birthday of long-term Bike Leichhardt member, Mike MacDonald.
"A quiet sort of town to celebrate my 81st with Chinese at the local Services Club, and now I have a top drop of Tawny Port to knock over sometime. Many thanks guys for being so generous," said Mike.
Celebrating Mike MacDonald’s 81st birthday at the Services Club (Photo: Bike Leichhardt)
Touring group members with Felix, the new owner of a top motel in Peak Hill, and a great host. Felix is already planning to install bike racks (Photo: Bike Leichhardt)
Leaving Peak Hill (Photo: Bike Leichhardt).
Thursday 12 Oct – Peak Hill to Parkes (70 km)
Friday 13 Oct – Parkes (40 kms)
"Next it was back on the gravel to the Dish for lunch, to view all the exhibits and see a very entertaining movie about what's out there in the heavens. A worthwhile stop!" reports Mick McDonald. "Then onto Parkes again for a three-night stay which would give some of us time to attend the famous Trundle Abba Festival." (Photo: Bike Leichhardt)
Saturday 14 Oct – Parkes (Rest Day)
The Court Street Motel provided transport for the group to Trundle for the Abba Festival, a good service for future riders to the area.
Bike Leichhardt touring members dressed for the occasion (Photo: Bike Leichhardt).
Sunday 15 Oct – Parkes to Eugowra (47 km)
Riders with cars in Eugowra headed back for the final 47kms ride, then continued home.
"The festival itself was a hoot", said Mike. "A fun feel good event that should be considered if touring the region in October."
Why not join your local BUG and benefit from free local guided group rides in your area and regional tours?
Then become a Bicycle NSW Member and support our advocacy campaigns for e-bike subsidies and the roll out of Rail Trails in regional NSW.
