The best traffic-free bike rides in Belfast C.R. Coastal Reserve
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Belfast C.R. Coastal Reserve explore a 12.4 mile (20 km) stretch of Victoria's Shipwreck Coast, characterized by diverse coastal landscapes. The region features open sandy beaches, sheltered bays, black basalt rock formations, and tall grassy dunes. Significant wetlands like Saltwater Swamp and upstream Kellys Swamp are also present. The area includes dedicated cycling infrastructure such as sections of the Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail, providing off-road options for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
19
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Belfast C.R. Coastal Reserve
Tips from the Community
Great historic pub full of Irish charm and the odd bit of memorabilia. Oh, and the Kilkenny is cold too!
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Nice spot to stop for a break or perhaps east some lunch.
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A memorial to the men and women who fought in the great war, with an unfortunately designed "Angel of Peace" atop a 12 metre pillar, that when viewed from the correct angle seems to be engaging in a lewd act. Known by locals as "The Dirty Angel" it is loved by many for either it's intended tribute, or it's unintended comedy.
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In 1836, marooned sealers claimed they saw the wreck of a galleon half-buried in the dunes as they walked along the coast back to Port Fairy. Their claims were corroborated by others in the area who said that over the years they had spotted the same wreck; oddly, eye-witness reports stopped after 1890, and the ship hasn't been seen since. Dubbed the Mahogany Ship for the exotic dark wood of its (rumored) skeletal hull, the mysterious vessel is theorized to be a lost Portuguese galleon that wrecked in 1522 while on a covert exploration through Spanish-controlled waters in search of--ironically--another bit of Maritime lore, Marco Polo's fabled island of gold, "Jave la Grande." Supposedly, the Portuguese were succesful in their quest, and charted the east coast of Jave la Grande--present-day Australia--before turning back after the Mahogany Ship sank. If this story is true, it means that the Portuguese discovered Australia over one-hundred years before the Dutch navigator, Willem Janszoon, made first contact with the Aboriginals, and charted the east coast nearly three-hundred years before Captain Cook. These bold claims have made the Mahogany Ship the subject of much controversy and debate. Many believe that it doesn't exist, while others argue that it does, and the ship's eventual discovery will rewrite history. So great, and exciting, is this possibility that in 2001, the government of Portugal gifted the city of Warrnambool with a monument dedicated to the early Portuguese explorers, Vasco Da Gama and Prince Henry The Navigator.
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Granny's Grave commemorates the first European Woman to be buried in the area and was erected by the local council in 1904. The monument names "Granny" as Mrs James Raddlestone, the wife of a crayfish fisherman, who was buried here in 1848 - However, later research identified her true identity as Agnes Ruttleton and Warrnambool Council added a plaque to the site in 2014 correcting the name. Situated on the wonderful, albeit a bit busy, coastal path - Granny's Grave is a great spot to stop and take in some history. The nearby bench works for a quick break too!
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Situated right on the breakwater; Warrnambool Aquarium opened in 1971 and operated until 1998. The sandstone walls are believed to be from an old abattoir in the area and the domes were constructed by a local contractor. Twice a day the tanks would be drained and then refilled by pump directly from the bay - No filtration was used, so only local species could be kept for display - species such as the Blue-Ringed Octopus. At the end of it's life it was leased to Deakin University, but they were unable to afford the cost of making it safe and it was closed down, then filled with sand and concreted over. Worth a visit if you're passing through the area as an interesting oddity and relic of Warrnambool's past.
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Great small brewery conveniently placed in close proximity to the Port Fairy Warrnambool Rail Trail. I tried the IPA and the Porter and both were great.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Belfast Coastal Reserve?
There are 3 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes currently available in Belfast Coastal Reserve. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options for exploring the coastal landscape.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Belfast Coastal Reserve?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Belfast Coastal Reserve are generally accessible, with 2 routes rated as easy and 1 as moderate. This makes the area suitable for a wide range of cyclists, from beginners to those looking for a slightly more challenging ride.
Are the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Belfast Coastal Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes, particularly those utilizing the Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail, are ideal for families. Their relatively flat gradients and separation from vehicular traffic provide a safe and enjoyable environment. The easy routes, such as the Warrnambool Aquarium Ruins – Angel of Peace War Memorial loop, are particularly well-suited for family outings.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes traverse diverse coastal environments, including open sandy beaches, sheltered bays, dramatic black basalt rock formations, and tall grassy dunes. You can expect stunning ocean views and a chance to spot abundant wildlife. The reserve is a critical nesting area for the threatened Hooded Plover and an important feeding ground for international migratory shorebirds. Southern right whales and dolphins can also be spotted in its waters during migration seasons.
What is the best time of year to cycle the no-traffic routes in Belfast Coastal Reserve?
The Belfast Coastal Reserve offers enjoyable cycling year-round, but spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) often provide the most pleasant weather conditions with mild temperatures. These seasons also offer opportunities for birdwatching as migratory species pass through. Summer can be warm, while winter can bring cooler, windier conditions, though still suitable for cycling.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available. For example, the Granny's Grave (Warrnambool) – Warrnambool Aquarium Ruins loop offers a pleasant circular ride starting and ending in Warrnambool, allowing you to experience the coastal scenery without retracing your steps.
Where can I park my car to access the no-traffic cycling trails?
Parking is generally available in the towns bordering the reserve, such as Warrnambool and Port Fairy, which serve as excellent starting points for many routes. Specific trailheads for routes like the Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail will have designated parking areas. Always check local signage for parking regulations.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While some areas within the Belfast Coastal Reserve have restrictions on dogs to protect sensitive habitats, dedicated cycling paths like the Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail generally permit dogs on a leash. It's always best to check specific signage at trailheads or consult the official Parks Victoria website for the most current regulations regarding pets in different sections of the reserve: Parks Victoria - Belfast Coastal Reserve.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Belfast Coastal Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil coastal scenery, the feeling of 'getting away from it all,' and the well-maintained, traffic-free paths that allow for a relaxing and immersive cycling experience.
Are there public transport options to reach the cycling trails?
Warrnambool, a key access point for many routes, has a railway station, making it accessible by public transport. From there, you can often connect to the cycling trails directly or with a short ride. For example, the Mickey Bourke's Koroit Hotel – Camperdown Railway Station loop starts near Warrnambool Railway Station, offering a convenient option for those using public transport.
What amenities are available along the no-traffic cycling routes?
While the reserve itself offers a rugged, natural experience, the towns of Warrnambool and Port Fairy, which are often starting or ending points for these routes, provide a full range of amenities including cafes, pubs, public restrooms, and bike shops. Along the rail trail sections, you may find occasional rest stops or interpretive signage.
Most popular routes in Belfast C.R. Coastal Reserve
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