25 Nov – 3 Dec
The ride | Orbost – Wonthaggi
The full Great Vic – nine days of camping, riding and exploring this beautiful part of Victoria with new and old friends.
At a glance
- Dates: Sat 25 Nov – Sun 3 Dec 2023
- Summary: Arrival day, 7 ride days and 1 rest day
- Total distance: 540km (approx. 77km per day)
- Elevation: 4,325m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided (excluding breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 6 and day 9)
- Type of bike: Road bike, hybrid bike, mountain bike or e-bike.
- Inclusions: Camping spot, campsite facilities, all meals*, comprehensive on-route support, luggage transfers, entertainment and much more!
Day by day
Day 1: Sat 25 Nov | Orbost (arrival day)
Krauatungalung Country
It’s been over 25 years since we’ve been to Orbost on the Great Vic! While there’s no official riding scheduled for today, once you’ve set up camp you can hop on the bike and uncover everything this town has to offer.
There’s a variety of things to see and do, most within a stone's throw of the campsite. Explore the Snowy River, pedal a section of the East Gippsland Rail Trail or enjoy a craft beer at the local Sailor’s Grave Brewing - there’s something for everyone!
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 1](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-1.jpg)
Day 2: Sun 26 Nov | Orbost to Buchan (58km)
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 2](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-2.jpg)
Krauatungalung Country
This first day of riding will be one to remember. You will begin your day following the Snowy River before tackling the secluded and winding road to Buchan, in Krauatungalung Country. Here you can enjoy stunning views of East Gippsland and the Snowy River National Park.
Our new home for the night, Buchan, is nestled in a picturesque valley and is home to the famous Buchan Caves. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the caves with a guided tour, stretching your legs on one of the Buchan Caves Reserve walks, or enjoy a well-deserved drink at the Buchan Caves Hotel.
Day 3: Mon 27 Nov | Buchan to Lakes Entrance (84km)
Krauatungalung Country
Leaving the Snowy River National Park behind you, your day will begin with a steady climb before descending towards the coast with spectacular scenery everchanging throughout the day.
Arriving at Lakes Entrance – where the Gippsland Lakes meet the sea – you’ll be drawn to the buzz of this popular holiday destination. The town is known for its seaside charm, and we encourage you to spend the day indulging in the local seafood, enjoying a quiet afternoon by the lake fishing, or exploring the township and waterways.
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 3](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-3.jpg)
Day 4: Tue 28 Nov | Lakes Entrance to Paynesville (76km)
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 4](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-4.jpg)
Tatungalung Country
Kick off day four tackling rolling hills, immersed in bushland and exploring the back roads to Bairnsdale before finishing with a cruise along the Mitchell River to Paynesville, in Tatungalung Country. The day’s riding features secluded roads, a few punchy climbs and plenty of rewarding views of lush green paddocks.
If Lakes Entrance stole your heart, its smaller coastal neighbour, Paynesville is also bound to charm you. Nestled amongst lakes, canals and inlets, Paynesville is the hotspot for regional boat and water sport lovers. If you prefer your feet on solid ground, Raymond Island (accessible via Ferry) is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and go koala and bird spotting.
Day 5: Wed 29 Nov | Paynesville to Sale (82km)
Brayakaulung Country
Say goodbye to the sweeping hills of Paynesville, and hello to the classic country roads that are beloved by many Great Vic riders. Featuring plenty of countryside views and changing scenery, you will be amid the hustle and bustle of Sale in Brayakaaulung Country before you know it.
The historic Port of Sale precinct is a regional hub for cafes, restaurants and local artistic talents, and a beautiful town to immerse yourself in.
We'll also be saying goodbye to our 5 day riders who we've clocked 300km on the bike with.
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 5](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-5.jpg)
Day 6: Thu 30 Nov | Sale (Rest Day)
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 6](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GVBR23-Day-6.jpg)
Brayakaulung Country
Sale has a big heart and plenty to offer for everyone on today’s rest day.
The town is home to trendy restaurants, cafes and bars. Or if you're looking to spend some extra time in the great outdoors, explore the Botanic Gardens, Lake Guthridge, Lake Guyatt and other scenic walking trails. If the legs are feeling fresh, the historical La Trobe Swing Bridge is a short 20min pedal south and well worth a visit.
Sale is the perfect spot to re-energise and welcome our 3-day riders before kicking off our next leg of the journey tomorrow.
Day 7: Fri 1 Dec | Sale to Port Albert (101km)
Brataualung Country
It’s time to tick-off the 100km challenge day, with a pedal to the charming coastal town of Port Albert. Today’s riding is mostly flat and will feature plenty of quiet country roads. You’ll be left feeling accomplished as you cruise into town.
This is the first time the Great Vic has visited the small fishing village of Port Albert which is one of Victoria’s oldest ports, established in 1841. Soak up Port Albert's wonderful history at the local Maritime Museum or enjoy some fish and chips from Port Albert Fish & Chip Co by the wharf.
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 7](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-7.jpg)
Day 8: Sat 2 Dec | Port Albert to Fish Creek (78km)
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 8](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-8.jpg)
Brataualung Country
Today's route is sure to be a favourite, with spectacular views of South Gippsland. You'll find quiet winding roads, rolling hills, and plenty of photo opportunities throughout the day. There is a small section (4km) of riding on compact unsealed road, but don’t let that deter you, we promise it’s where the Gippsland magic is!
Arriving in Fish Creek, you’ll be in awe of the picturesque township featuring boutique stores, galleries, and cafes. The local, retro-style Fish Creek Hotel is also set to be a great spot for a hearty feed on Saturday night. Fish Creek is another new town we cannot wait to add to the catalogue of Great Vic campsites!
Day 9: Sun 3 Dec | Fish Creek to Wonthaggi (59km)
Bunurong Country
To finish your journey through Gippsland, you will depart Fish Creek and travel through the lively town of Inverloch before completing the ride in Wonthaggi, home to the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation.
You’ll pass green paddocks and spectacular coastal reserves as you pedal towards the finish line. Wonthaggi features many bustling restaurants and cafés, as well as the 20th century State Coal Mine which gives a nod to the town’s historical past. Keep an ear out for the old coal mine whistle - it blows every day at 12pm!
Wonthaggi is the perfect spot to celebrate your achievements with friends and family as you reflect on your week in another world.
![Great Vic Bike Ride 2023 - Day 9](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/GVBR23-Day-9.jpg)
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 – pre-book
Option 2 - Drive & park
Drive to our Long-Term Car Park (at the finish line) and get coach transport to the start line – pre-book
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
![Ticket type icon](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GVBR23-Ticket-type-icon.png)
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.
![Add ons icon](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GVBR23-Add-ons-icon.png)
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.
![Transport icon](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GVBR23-Transport-Icon.png)
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.
Prices – 9 Day
Join the ultimate all-inclusive bike riding holiday from just $138 per day!
School groups can sign-up via our Great Vic Schools registration page.
Early bird
- Adult
- $1247.00
- Member
- 10% off
- Concession*
- $1124.00
- Youth (13-17yrs)
- $896.00
- Child (6-12yrs)
- $539.00
- Infant (5 and under)
- Free
Presale ended
Standard
- Adult
- $1385.00
- Member
- 10% off
- Concession*
- $1249.00
- Youth (13-17yrs)
- $995.00
- Child (6-12yrs)
- $599.00
- Infant (5 and under)
- Free
Presale ended
Please note:
*10% members discount is not available for concession tickets. See our FAQ's for more information about concession eligibility.
What's included?
![Great Vic Bike Ride - food](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-food.png)
Meals
![Great Vic Bike Ride - Camping](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-Marquee.png)
Camping spot
![Great Vic Bike Ride - shower facilities](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-shower.png)
Wash facilities
![Great Vic Bike Ride - transport](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-transport.png)
Luggage transfers
![Great Vic Bike Ride - mechanical support](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-mechanical-support.png)
On-route support
![Great Vic Bike Ride - entertainment](https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Great-Vic-Icon-2020-entertainment.png)
Entertainment
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