With the Tour de France only days away, I am reminded about my own foray in the maillot jaune! Being a little obsessed with these stock-like, ‘head in hole’ photo opportunities, this one really tickled my coxic. But it was only after cycling the Great Victorian Rail Trail that I felt I had earned the pleasure.
Every July we love being armchair journeymen following the Tour de France as swarms of cyclists wend their way through rolling landscapes rich in histoire. We’re thrilled by the adrenalin pumped out daily as teams and individuals pursue obscure classifications along the way. And, we try to fathom their tactics as breakaway groups and riders claim their few minutes of fame.
But really, nothing beats extending your armchair revelry beyond the lounge room to get on yer bike! The Great Victorian Rail Trail extends some 134 kilometres from Tallarook to Mansfield in North Eastern Victoria. It’s a rail trail which means that the inclines are no more than about 2% making it more achievable than the Alps or Pyrenees. What is memorable is that the trail meanders through lush rolling hills, via historic landmarks including the 201 metre Cheviot tunnel and follows the gum-lined Goulburn River.
Take a look at the Great Victorian Rail Trail and start planning! You can put your bike on the train from Southern Cross and get off at Tallarook to start your ride. No bull!
