A guide to exploring Adelaide on two wheels

Cycling is more than just a fun, eco-friendly way to get around. As a low-impact cardio workout, it keeps you active, boosts stamina and builds strength, all without putting too much strain on your joints. But that’s just the physical side of things – there’s something magical about the freedom of pedalling through nature or city streets that clears the mind and lifts the spirit.

Plus, there’s a thrill in exploring new places by bike, adding a sense of adventure to your ride. Whether you’re cruising along coastlines or weaving through urban parks, cycling helps you feel more connected to your surroundings – and to yourself.

When it comes to the best bike tours in Adelaide, here at Well Traveller, we can’t go past Bike About. Offering a variety of electric bike adventures that cater to all interests, this Eco Tourism accredited business has been sharing their love of cycling for over 20 years. Their popular Adelaide City Scenic Electric Bike Tour, providing a relaxed way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks – from the River Torrens to the Adelaide Oval – is perfect for beginners through to experienced riders.

For those seeking a more nature-filled escape, their Mt. Lofty E-Wheels & Wildlife Tour offers a breathtaking ride through the Adelaide Hills (approximately 45 min out of the city), combining scenic views with the chance to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re keen to create a customised tour for a group, Pure SA is another excellent operator, offering tailored experiences to explore Adelaide’s best cycling routes in a way that suits your needs.

If you’re keen to forge your own path, you can pick up a push bike or e-Bike from Bike About and discover Adelaide at your own pace. While built for leisurely meandering, the city also offers a variety of fantastic scenic cycling routes.

The 9.5km (each way) Mike Turtur Bikeway will take you from the Adelaide city to the seaside, offering a breezy, flat ride that ends at stunning Glenelg Beach where you can stop off for a swim or a bite to eat. For a more nature-filled experience, the 15km Marino Rocks Greenway connects the city to the coastline, offering spectacular ocean views along the way.

The Adelaide Park Lands Trail is another great option. This 19.5km walk and bike track loops around the city’s greenbelt providing a tranquil escape through the city’s lush parklands. Art lovers won’t want to miss Adelaide Street Art Trail, which showcases over 100 large-scale commissioned murals by some of Australia’s most talented established and emerging artists.

If you're after more of a thrill, head to the Fox Creek Bike Park in the Adelaide Hills. Known for its 50km or so of adrenaline-pumping trails, this park caters to all skill levels and offers a mix of downhill, cross-country and jump tracks set against a backdrop of stunning forest scenery. If you’re looking for a longer journey, the Coast to Vines Trail is a 40km bike path stretching from Marino to McLaren Vale. Following the original steam train line from Adelaide to Willunga, it takes you through rolling vineyards and scenic countryside.

There are a wide range of cycling routes in Adelaide, so it’s important to pick one that matches your fitness level and interests. Whether you’re cycling through the city’s parklands or taking on a more challenging trail through the Adelaide Hills, choose a route that’s both enjoyable and achievable.

Wherever you decide to explore, wear breathable, comfortable clothing and proper footwear. A helmet is a must, for obvious reasons, while sunglasses, sun protection and a light jacket are great additions to keep you protected from the elements. If you’re looking to cover more ground or just want a more leisurely experience, opting for an e-Bike can be a game-changer.

Cycling can be an all-day affair, so be sure to factor in some rest stops. Adelaide’s cafes, parks and markets provide great opportunities to take a break and refuel. For an authentic local experience, be sure to swing by the Adelaide Central Markets, where you can stock up on artisan provisions to fuel your cycling adventures. Head to The Nourish’d Kitchen in Stepney for arguably the best turmeric latte in Adelaide and a nourishing array of breakfast, brunch and lunch bites.

If you’re near Norwood, head to 30 Acres, where the produce is sourced straight from their own farm in the Adelaide Hills, ensuring fresh, farm-to-table flavours to refuel your ride. And if you’re cycling by the sea, Nauti Buoy in Henley is the perfect spot to snack on sourdough crumpets or re-energise with dishes like their Super Bowl – a delicious medley of crispy tofu, pumpkin, avo, kale, quinoa, pear and black garlic cashew butter. Delish!

Keen to explore more of this amazing country by e-Bike? You’re in luck. Australia is home to countless incredible tracks – here are just a couple of my top picks.

Blue Derby, known as the country’s premier mountain biking destination, boasts world-class trails that weave through the stunning Tasmanian wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, these tracks offer an exciting mix of lush forest terrain, scenic rivers and exhilarating descents. Out pick: the Iconic 3-day Blue Derby Pods Ride experience.

If you find yourself near Byron Bay, check out the Northern Rivers Rail Trail which winds through lush green landscape and charming villages between Murwillumbah and Mooball.