The best road cycling routes around Burnside

Road cycling around Burnside offers diverse terrain, characterized by the undulating landscapes of the adjacent Adelaide Hills. You'll find challenging climbs, scenic roads winding through vineyards, farmlands, and natural bushland. The region provides options for various ability levels, from easy to difficult.

Yes, Burnside offers routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Foxes Pub – Templepatrick BP loop from Ballyclare is rated as easy, covering 33.4 km with moderate elevation gain. The broader Adelaide Hills also feature paths like the Amy Gillett Pathway, which is a sealed, traffic-free bitumen track with gentle inclines, perfect for relaxed rides.

For those seeking a challenge, the region offers significant climbs. Routes like the Heart Attack Hill – Larne Town Centre loop from Ballyclare feature substantial elevation gain over 54.7 km. The Crafers Bikeway, adjacent to Burnside, also presents sections with gradients exceeding 11%, providing a rewarding experience for experienced cyclists.

The region is generally pleasant for cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal. Summer can be warm, especially in the middle of the day, while winter brings cooler temperatures but can still be suitable for cycling, though some routes might be affected by weather conditions.

Yes, Burnside's proximity to the Adelaide Hills means many routes offer stunning views. You can expect vistas of vineyards, farmlands, and natural bushland. Specific highlights include the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road. The Old Freeway Bike Path leading to Mount Lofty Summit also rewards riders with expansive views of Adelaide and the surrounding areas.

Many of the popular routes around Burnside are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop from Ballyclare and the Heart Attack Hill loop from Ballyclare, providing convenient options for exploration.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic roads winding through vineyards and natural bushland. The dedicated cycling infrastructure and picturesque landscapes are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

While many routes cater to experienced road cyclists, the broader Adelaide Hills region offers family-friendly options. The Amy Gillett Pathway, for instance, is a 17km sealed, traffic-free bitumen track that follows an old railway line, ensuring gentle inclines and a relaxed experience suitable for families.

Yes, many routes pass through or near small townships and offer opportunities for refreshment. For example, the Diana’s Courtyard Café – Antrim Castle Ruins loop from Ballyclare suggests a cafe stop. The region's rural vistas and proximity to cool-climate wineries also mean you might find charming spots to pause and refuel.

The City of Burnside and the broader Adelaide metropolitan area actively promote cycling. You'll find dedicated bike lanes and bikeways, including the Crafers Bikeway, which offers a significant ascent. The BikeDirect network incorporates main roads, bicycle lanes, and off-road paths, aiming for a safer and more interconnected cycling experience.

Absolutely. The routes often traverse natural bushland and offer views of features like Killylane Reservoir and Ballyboley Forest. Cleland National Park also borders part of the Crafers Bikeway, adding natural beauty to your ride.