Nestled in the heart of rural NSW, just north of Canberra, Murrumbateman is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered by cyclists. Located 3 hours from Sydney, this charming town has it all - outdoor adventure, picturesque landscapes, culinary delights and a warm community eager to welcome visitors.
Fifteen members of the Bike Leichhardt Touring Group recently embarked on a three-day adventure to explore the Murrumbateman area. Mike MacDonald, longtime Bike Leichhardt member and legendary tour organiser, reports that the experience was nothing short of spectacular!
Tour members take a break during one of the three rides (Image: Bike Leichhardt)
Three unforgettable rides
"Our group enjoyed three distinct rides that showcased the region’s stunning scenery and diverse terrain," says Mike.
"Two were fantastic 60km routes that offered a unique mix of gravel and bitumen with about 500m of climbing. There is very little traffic on the back roads and plenty to see – including some amazing birdlife."
Riding gravel near Murrumbateman, NSW (Image: Bike Leichhardt)
"One ride took in the historic town of Yass, where we indulged in excellent coffee and cake," recalls Mike. "In fact, there was a lot of great food during the trip!"
But the standout ride was the new Murrumbateman Winery Trail
This 17km off-road shared path winds through the region’s renowned vineyards. It offers riders an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views while sampling some of the finest wines the area has to offer.
Murrumbateman is the focus of the Canberra district cool climate wine region, which has more than 20 producers. The paved Murrumbateman Winery Trail winds gently through the scenic vineyards, passing 8 of the award-winning wineries (Images: Bike Leichhardt)
"For many of us, the winery trail was the highlight of the tour - a great mix of leisure and adventure that left every participant in awe."
Find out more about the Murrumbateman Winery Trail here.
Three days and three rides, including the short but fabulous wine tour (Images: Bike Leichhardt)
A very hospitable community
"One of the best things about Murrumbateman is its vibrant and welcoming community," says Mike. "From the moment Bike Leichhardt arrived, locals went above and beyond to ensure our visit was enjoyable.
"Accommodation options were excellent and the culinary offerings were equally impressive. Murrumbateman boasts a selection of cafes, and a pub with fantastic food. Outside the village, there are several wineries that specialise in pizza lunches and banquet dinners – and of course, vineyard vistas!"
Pizza and wine tasting at Four Winds Winery. Four Winds won the Jimmy Watson trophy for the best red wine in Australia this year. It is on the Murrumbateman Winery Trail and best reached by bike! (Image: Bike Leichhardt)
Murrumbateman Village Market was a delightful addition to the itinerary. "Several members of our group checked out the bustling market, which specialises in local fresh food and crafts. It is held on the second and fourth Saturday of the month."
Exploring further: trails beyond Yass
Bike riders looking to extend their holiday will be thrilled to learn about the great range of rides in the region. "John Thorn, from the Murrumbateman Magpies Cycling group, is happy to share details of rewarding trails branching out from Yass," says Mike. "Contact John via the Magpies Facebook page."
A proud display of vibrant Bike Leichhardt jerseys! (Image: Bike Leichhardt)
Plan your visit to the Yass Valley
Murrumbateman should be at the top of the list for your next cycling adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this region has something for everyone.
- Cycling routes: Take on the 60km routes or enjoy the paved winery trail for a more leisurely ride.
- Dining experiences: Savor delicious food at the local pub or indulge in vineyard dining.
- Local markets: Explore the Village Market and discover unique crafts and produce.
- Extended trails: Venture into Yass for additional cycling options.
As Bike Leichhardt’s tour has shown, a trip to Murrumbateman is not just about cycling. It’s a chance to connect with the land, embrace the slower pace of country life, and contribute to the sustainability of a charming community.
So pack your gear, plan your itinerary with the help of the Yass Valley Information Centre, and prepare for an adventure that combines the thrill of cycling with the joy of exploring one of NSW’s most charming regions.
Would you like to go on group rides and explore NSW?
Find out how to become a member of your local Bicycle User Group (or BUG) here. The listed BUGs are all affiliated with Bicycle NSW. Their ride leaders are comprehensively trained and approved by us to deliver high quality, interesting and suitable rides for all participants.
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