THE TEN BEST GRAVEL ROUTES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
Get ready to unleash your inner adventurer as MAAP teams up with Ride High Country to launch this epic gravel network partnership and PROJECT (10).
Leaping headfirst into the wild heart of the High Country, scouring alpine mountains, sweeping valleys and sprawling flatlands. Expect to tackle crispy granite, classic fire roads, grassy meadows and the kind of champagne gravel that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. We've handpicked the ten best gravel rides in Victoria's High Country, and trust us - you're in for a seriously epic experience.
IT'S A HIGH COUNTRY THING
The High Country is nothing short of a cycling utopia. Think long, winding alpine climbs that challenge your limits, mountain bike parks that will get your adrenaline pumping and rail trails that stretch for miles - just imagine the gravel roads begging to be explored.
But that's not all. The High Country is bursting with friendly locals and a vibrant food and drink scene that'll keep you fuelled and more than satisfied. Craft beers that hit just right, world-class wines to savour, and award-winning distilleries waiting for you to discover. And don't get us started on the coffee - you might just want to stock up on beans to take home. From hidden gems to hatted restaurants and cozy country pubs, where the locals might let you in on their secret swimming holes, must-try dishes and the best place to catch that epic sunset.
THE ALLURE OF GRAVEL
What makes gravel riding so irresistibly captivating? The freedom to explore uncharted terrain, far away from the asphalt and relentless traffic. Feeling like you're in a remote paradise, miles from civilisation, even when a township is just around the corner. The rush of excitement as you navigate winding gravel roads, never knowing what's just beyond the bend. Surrounded by nature and jaw-dropping vistas, every ride is a new adventure waiting to unfold.
PROJECT (10) encapsulates all of this and more. Whether you're a first-time gravel rider or a battle-hardened adventurer, there is a route for you - or why not conquer them all? Get ready to embrace the wild spirit of the High Country.
WHAT'S THE ROUTE?
The ten best gravel routes across Victoria's High Country, and trust us, they are nothing short of mind-blowing.
Starting with a couple of classics that will have you buzzing. Expect pristine landscapes, views that will drop your jaw to the floor, climbs that will make your legs and lungs sing, and descents that range from fast and flowing to adrenaline-fuelled technical rollercoasters. The Goin’ to Bonnie Doon, King Valley Il Monte, Mitta Mitta Callaghan Creek, and Mt Porepunkah Loops will leave you wishing you booked a week in the High Country instead of just a weekend.
The sound of the crunchy granite gravel around Beechworth and Eldorado is like music to our ears! With hero gravel, farmland traverses, creek crossings, and sweeping views that will make you forget that pesky 10% pinch, you'll be ready for a cold beer and pizza or indulge in the most epic "pub" lunch.
For the purists, dive into rugged landscapes, off-the-beaten-path mountainous terrain, creek crossings and breathtaking views. The solid climbs give way to fast and flowing descents that land you right into the townships and rolling through the door to a couple of cracking breweries. Make sure your Alt_Road cargo bibs are packed with snacks because Trappers Gap and Bright - Mount Beauty are one-way routes that demand your total commitment.
Head for the mountains and tackle short yet punchy routes like the Mt Stirling Classic Circuit and the Forest, Mountains, and Lakes of Falls Creek. These rides pack a serious punch in elevation gain and natural beauty. From towering tree ferns to iconic bushland, you'll soak in panoramic mountain views and tackle gravel that ranges from smooth and hard-packed to loose and rocky. Bring your sense of adventure and an extra Alt_Road packable layer for these epic loops.
GRAB YOUR RIDE PASSPORT. IT'S TIME TO HIT THE GRAVEL!
The spirit of gravel is about more than just bragging rights; it's about the journey and the rewards. That's why MAAP and Ride High Country have created the Ride Passport. Complete every route in PROJECT (10), collect special stickers for each one, and once you've conquered them all, you'll enter to win an unforgettable trip to the High Country, kitted out in the latest MAAP Alt_Road gear, for you and a friend!
So, call your friends, load up your gravel bike, pack that Alt_Road kit, and grab your MAAP x Ride High Country PROJECT (10) Ride Passport. It's time for gravel adventures in the High Country!
IT'S JUST THE BEGINNING
You knew that wasn't all.
We've got a lineup of events ahead, so clear your calendars for the PROJECT (10) launch party at the Melbourne MAAP LaB on November 21st. And get ready—community rides are about to drop to take you on an epic journey through each of the ten gravel routes.
This is PROJECT (10)- let’s get ready to rip it.
