Derek and I have a deal – he doesn’t mind dropping me off at the beginning of a trail, but he really prefers not to have to get me from the end of a ride. He likes to be able to get on with his “man jobs” without the interruption of having to collect me at a certain time.
On this occasion Derek took me to Tallarook at one end of the Great Victorian Rail Trail. The Great Victorian Rail Trail covers 134 kilometres of packed gravel path through some very pretty countryside in central Victoria. Today I was to cycle 38 kilometres back to our caravan park at Yea.
I said goodbye to Derek and the dog and headed out on a cool November morning. The first 23 kilometres of the trail followed alongside the beautiful Goulburn River.
At around the 20 kilometre mark, the trail crossed King Parrot Creek near where it flows into the Goulburn River.
The rail trail turns away from the Goulburn River
As the trail began to turn away from the Goulburn River, the valley opened up into gently undulating grazing country.
After another hour of steady pedalling I arrived back at Yea and found wonderful food and coffee at Marmalades cafe in the Main Street.
From there it was only a short way to the former Yea Railway Station.
The trail had involved more climbing than I expected – 450 metres in total, but the gradients had been gradual.
I was looking forward to riding again tomorrow – this time from Alexandra back to Yea. My third ride on the Great Victorian Rail Trail was from Cathkin to Mansfield.
If you don’t have a Derek to shuttle you around, have a look at Tour de Vines self-guided fully-supported tour of the Great Victorian Rail Trail.
Looks like a pleasant ride.
Yes – I love the Great Victorian Rail Trail almost as much as the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail – especially the sections between Tallarook and Alexandra.
I haven’t been on any of these trails Helen so it’s great to read your descriptions and see your photos.
Another of your amazing adventures Helen. Look fwd to your Blogs. Well done.xx
Thanks Kathie 🙂