Many times we thought about bicycling Tasmania. We had read that most of the country was wilderness…and that was the kind of place we enjoyed cycling. When we made this spur of the moment trip to Australia, we had no plans of any kind.
It was a fortuitous event that not only did we end up bicycling Tasmania, but we also committed to making our first ever bicycle tour with a commercial company.
We had never cycled with any group…nor had anyone ever carried our gear for us.
Bicycle Network Victoria is a non-profit organization working to develop enthusiasm for bicycling. They are an immense success. They now have a membership over 43000 strong. We fell into their embrace by accident while in Melbourne for the Tennis Open.
We don’t like crowds! Four to six people at a time is maximum for us.
We went on a nine day cycle tour for 544 kilometers with 3000 cyclists!
We have never had so much fun; we would love to do it again!
An auspicious beginning? We caught the last ferry to Tasmania before the cyclone hit. The next day, the ships were turned back. One ferry captain must not have gotten the message in time. Waves broke through the windows of the control cabin high atop the ship.
The same wind demolished our tent which was pitched in a quiet camping area in Devonport, where we were waiting for the ride to begin. An emergency bus ride to the bigger town of Launceston allowed us to purchase a new one for the ride. All is well.
Three thousand cyclists are gathering now in Devonport for the ride to Hobart.
Riders leave whatever time they wish.
The distance is set for each day.
The only requirement is to pack up your gear and get it loaded into the trucks in the morning.
All our gear is transported by big semi trucks to the next camping destination.
The route is hilly.
There are some steep ones in our future.
The roads are narrow; there is no shoulder.
The paving is reasonably smooth.
We all go our own pace.
There is someone new to meet and cycle with everyday.
There are designated lunch stops along the route each day where we get good sandwiches.
Frequent water stops are also set up along the route.
Bicycle Network Victoria Sets Up the Amenities…While we Ride
Camping with 3000 other cyclists!
Buy clothes or equipment at discount! Demo an upscale touring bike! We rode a tandem for a day!
Hobart-End of the Tour
After nine days of non-stop cycling, great food, great service and new friends, we arrive in Hobart, our destination.
After nine days of non-stop cycling, great food, great service and new friends, we arrive in Hobart, our destination.
A charming town in it’s own right.. we spent two days enjoying the sights.
A charming town in it’s own right.. we spent two days enjoying the sights.
THE END
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