28 Nov – 1 Dec
The ride | Mansfield – Healesville
All aboard for a taste of the Great Vic with a long weekend of riding and camping.
At a glance
- Dates: Thursday 28 November – Sunday 1 December 2024
- Summary: Arrival day and 3 ride days
- Total distance: 180km
- Elevation: 2340m (overall)
- Average daily: 60km
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided (excluding lunch and breakfast on day 1 and lunch day 4)
- Type of bike: Road bike, hybrid bike or mountain bike
- Inclusions: Camping spot, campsite facilities, all meals*, full on-route support, luggage transfers, entertainment and much more!
Route details
Day by day
Day 1: Thu 28 Nov | Mansfield (Arrival Day)
Mansfield has a big heart and plenty to offer for everyone on rest day. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a day trip to Mount Buller, explore Lake Eildon, or take to the skies on a helicopter tour.
If you’re looking to stick closer to town, Mansfield has plenty of local shops, activities and historical buildings to explore, including golf, an art trail, walks, parks & gardens, wineries and distilleries and Mansfield Zoo.
Day 2: Fri 29 Nov | Mansfield to Alexandra
It’s time to hop back on the bike for a ride on the Great Victorian Rail Trail to Alexandra. On your 77km Rail Trail journey, enjoy picturesque views of Lake Eildon and pedal across the Glad Phillips Bridge into Bonnie Doon where you can rest your legs and enjoy the serenity.
Alexandra embraces small town life, with tree-lined streets and local arts and crafts. Perfectly situated along the Great Victorian Rail Trail near Lake Eildon, the Goulburn River Valley and state forests.
Route specs
- Distance: 77km
- Elevation: 586m
Day 3: Sat 30 Nov | Alexandra to Marysville
Day eight is sure to be a memorable one. A pedal uphill out of Alexandra is rewarded with more incredible views over Lake Elidon. Make sure to stop for a photo before cruising downhill to Eildon itself. After a break, you will meander your way along the Goulburn River, continuing along Gould Memorial Drive past sites like the Cathedral Ranges before reaching the town of Marysville, our destination for the final night of Great Vic 2024.
Marysville is surrounded by natural beauty with lush forests, impressive waterfalls and native wildlife. 15 years on from the Black Saturday bush fires which devastated the town, the resilient community has rebuilt and is ready to welcome riders and your support.
Route specs
- Distance: 73km
- Elevation: 972m
Day 4: Sun 1 Dec | Marysville to Healesville
An incredible week comes to an end – but not without a spectacular day which includes a rare opportunity to ride the picturesque Black Spur car-free. You will be transported to another world, as you travel along its twists and turns among the iconic tall mountain ash trees and ferns. Emerging from this breathtaking wonderland you will arrive at the final destination, the finish line Healesville as our 501km journey comes to an end. Celebrate your achievement at this regional food and wine hub, surrounded by family, friends and nature.
Route specs
- Distance: 34km
- Elevation: 882m
First time on the Great Vic?
Getting there
There are three main options to get to/from the Great Vic.
Option 1 - By coach
Coach transport is available from Melbourne and regional centres.
Option 2 - Drive & park
Drive to our Long-Term Car Park (at the finish line) and get coach transport to the start line.
Option 3 - Ask for a lift
Get a lift with family or friends to/from our designated drop-off and pick-up points at each campsite.
How to book a ticket
1. Select your ticket type
Select your ride option (9, 5 or 3-days) and your ticket type. You may be eligible for a discount if you're a concession holder or a Bicycle Network Member.
2. Select your add-ons
Designed to make you a little more comfortable, choose any ride extras to add-on – including camping upgrades (if you’re not bringing a tent), merchandise, e-bike charging and/or phone charging.
3. Select your transport option (to/from the event)
Need help getting there? Book a spot on one of our coach services. If you're driving, book a spot in the long-term car park (at the finish line) and a seat on the coach to the start line.
Life on event
The Great Vic is much more than a bike ride. Read more about our campsite facilities and comprehensive on-route support.
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