Annual Phillip Island Ride

This great ride is usually held every year in early September. Although the official start is at Cranbourne, riders can choose alternative start points to either shorten or lengthen their total distances. The ride follows the South Gippsland Highway which offers very good and safe cycling conditions. There is a wide sealed shoulder at the side of the road and the long flat sections offer plenty of opportunity for fast paced riding.

The first half of the ride is almost dead flat with only a few gentle rises and falls. The only climb of any signifinance is the steady (but short) climb to the Anderson turnoff. From here the road has a few rolling undulations before the final descent down to San Remo.

After crossing on to the Island we follow the flat road to the Rhyll turnoff, where we turn right and complete the short distance down to Rhyll where we enjoy a well derserved lunch stop at the coffee shop on the waterfront. They still make the best open sandwiches and focacias you could wish for.

If you still are eager to cove a few more kilometres you can follow the road back to Cowes and then continue down to the Nobbies for an ice cream. Finally you turn back and finish in the main street of Cowes. The total distance for this ride is 122km.

Although it sounds hard it is actually NOT a difficult ride and would be suitable to anyone of reasonable bike fitness. There are no really big hills and most of the ride is basically flat to undulating. Highly recommended.

The Google Earth route file can be found by clicking here.