The best traffic-free bike rides around Hawkesbury

There are nearly 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Hawkesbury region featured in this guide, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. For example, the King Lane – Lower Woods Nature Reserve loop offers an easy option.

The Hawkesbury region offers diverse terrain, from picturesque riverside riding on quiet roads and cruisy dirt tracks along the Hawkesbury and Colo Rivers to more challenging sections bordering the Blue Mountains. You'll find green riverlands, gum forests, and unspoiled bushland, with some routes incorporating gravel sections like the Fosse Way Gravel Section – Malmesbury Abbey loop.

Yes, the Hawkesbury region has options suitable for families and beginners, particularly around areas like Windsor with its smoothly paved paths. While this guide focuses on touring routes, some sections of the easier routes, such as the King Lane – Lower Woods Nature Reserve loop, could be suitable for families looking for a shorter, less challenging ride.

The region is rich in history. You can explore sections of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Great North Road, built by convicts, offering a rugged and historical journey. Historic towns like Windsor, Wisemans Ferry, and St Albans (home to the 1836 Settlers Arms Inn) are also accessible. Notable highlights include Castle Combe Village and the William Tyndale Monument.

Yes, many of the touring routes in the Hawkesbury region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. Examples include the challenging Somerset Monument – Fosse Way Gravel Section loop and the moderate Sherston Clock Tower – Easton Grey Stone Bridge loop.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Hawkesbury, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene riverside views, the unique experience of the cable-operated river ferries, and the blend of historical sites with unspoiled natural bushland, providing a truly immersive no-traffic adventure.

Absolutely. The routes often feature stunning natural beauty, including green riverlands, gum forests, and views of the Hawkesbury River. Lookouts like Yellow Rock and Hawkesbury Lookouts offer panoramic vistas. You might also encounter natural highlights such as Duck Pond or the scenic Lasborough Lakes and Mansion.

Yes, many routes in the Hawkesbury region are accessible by public transport from Sydney, often allowing for roll-on/roll-off bike access. This makes it convenient to reach starting points for your no-traffic touring adventure without needing a car.

Yes, you'll find opportunities to refuel. The region is dotted with charming historic towns and villages like Windsor, Wisemans Ferry, and St Albans, which offer coffee shops, cafes, and historic pubs. You can also discover farmgate produce along quiet country roads, providing a chance to sample local delights.

The Hawkesbury region is enjoyable for cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring. Summer can be hot, so early morning rides are recommended, while winter provides cooler, crisp conditions, perfect for longer rides without the intense heat.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are routes that incorporate more difficult terrain. The Somerset Monument – Tresham Bridleway Climb loop is classified as difficult, offering significant elevation gain and technical sections. Some parts of the Old Great North Road also provide a rugged experience.