Victoria’s High Country is sharpening its credentials as one of Australia’s premier cycling destinations, with a new initiative designed to make exploring the region on two wheels even more rewarding.
Ride High Country Preferred recognises local businesses that go the extra distance for cyclists, connecting riders with accommodation, hospitality and experiences that understand what makes a great cycling holiday.
Australian Cycle Tours is backing the initiative, which complements its existing network of local operators and accommodation providers throughout Victoria’s High Country.
More than the ride
From rail trails weaving between historic towns to vineyards, farm gates and long lunches, cycling through Victoria’s High Country has always been about more than kilometres covered.
Australian Cycle Tours Brand Manager Erin Wileman said Ride High Country Preferred reflects the growing importance of the complete cycling experience.
‘A great cycle holiday is about the ride, but it is also about the accommodation you stay in, the places you stop for lunch, the local food and wine, and the communities you experience along the way,’ Wileman said.
‘Australian Cycle Tours has always focused on creating that complete experience, and Ride High Country Preferred strengthens the network of businesses behind it.’
For travellers, that means the freedom of an active holiday paired with the confidence that the businesses supporting their journey understand the needs of cyclists.
Ride the Murray to the Mountains
One of the region’s signature rides is the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, linking some of north-east Victoria’s best-known towns, landscapes and gourmet experiences.
The five-day Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail Downhill Edition begins in historic Beechworth before following the trail through forests, farmland and wine country towards Myrtleford and Bright. Being self-guided, there is plenty of freedom to linger over lunch, visit a winery or simply slow down when the scenery demands it.
Travellers looking for a shorter adventure can opt for the four-day Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail Short Break, combining relaxed riding with country towns, regional produce and some of north-east Victoria’s most appealing scenery.
Go further through the High Country
Those with more time can take on the seven-day Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail Extended Cycle.
The longer itinerary explores Yackandandah, Wangaratta, Milawa, Myrtleford, Bright and Harrietville, adding more kilometres and a deeper taste of the region’s landscapes, wineries and local produce.
It is a journey well suited to the philosophy behind Ride High Country Preferred. Rather than racing through the landscape, cyclists become part of it, moving between communities under their own power and spending money with regional businesses along the way.
Take a short rail trail escape
Australian Cycle Tours also offers a three-day Great Victorian Rail Trail Short Break.
The itinerary has been adapted while sections affected by the 2026 bushfires undergo restoration, with transfers around closed areas helping maintain the journey. Highlights include rolling countryside, country towns and the historic Cheviot Tunnel.
Whether it is a weekend on a rail trail or a week-long journey through north-east Victoria, the appeal is much the same. Travellers can combine active exploration with Beechworth’s gold rush heritage, High Country landscapes, local food and wine and the freedom to discover regional Victoria at cycling pace.
For a region already known for mountain biking, road cycling and rail trails, Ride High Country Preferred adds another layer by strengthening the businesses and communities behind the experience.
