BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN PERTH (AUSTRALIA)

Swan River loop

If you want a route that’s both scenic and central, the Swan River Loop is a must. This iconic trail circles the winding river that cuts through Perth and gives you the ultimate sightseeing experience from your saddle. The full loop covers roughly 30 kilometers and is mostly flat, making it great for all fitness levels.

Why this route rocks

You’ll pedal past city skylines, leafy parks, and riverside cafés. It’s a social ride—expect to pass joggers, families, and fellow cyclists soaking up the sunshine. Key highlights include crossing the Matagarup Bridge, cruising along South Perth Foreshore, and watching black swans glide beside you.

• Plenty of rest spots and water refill stations

• Bike-friendly cafés near Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street

• Shady areas under big gum trees for picnic breaks

• Great sunrise and sunset views from both riverbanks

To beat the heat, hit the trail early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Most of the path is sealed and well-maintained, so a hybrid or road bike will serve you well. Don’t forget your camera—views from the Narrows Bridge are especially gram-worthy.

Beach ride to Hillarys

Craving ocean views and salty air? The coastal ride from Perth’s northern suburbs to Hillarys Boat Harbour delivers both in spades. This 20–25 kilometer ride (one way) runs alongside some of Western Australia’s most iconic beaches. Expect turquoise waters, clean paths, and lots of great café stops.

What makes this coastal ride epic

The sealed cycle path runs parallel to West Coast Drive and offers panoramic views over the Indian Ocean. You’ll cruise past Scarborough Beach, Trigg, and North Beach—perfect for cooling off with a swim mid-ride. The end reward? A bustling marina at Hillarys with eateries, ice cream spots, and a beach perfect for lounging.

• Beachside facilities with showers and bike parking

• Amazing coastal photo ops, especially at sunset

• Smooth terrain with minimal elevation

• Ideal for e-bikes, cruisers, and family riders

Plan for strong afternoon sea breezes by starting your ride southbound in the morning and heading north while the winds are still calm. If you’re not up for a return ride, hop on a train from nearby stations like Stirling or Glendalough to get back to the city with your bike.

Pro tip: Bring your swimmers and a towel—this ride is perfect for turning your cycle into a beach day.

Kings Park and beyond

For a mix of nature and panoramic city views, Kings Park is hard to beat. Located just minutes from Perth CBD, it’s one of the largest inner-city parks in the world and offers a range of cycling paths, bushland trails, and lookout points. While the park itself offers shorter loops (5–10 kilometers), it connects nicely with longer routes toward Subiaco and Bold Park.

Explore more than just the park

Start your ride near Fraser Avenue for a sweeping view of Perth’s skyline, then venture into the park’s bushland trails for a more immersive nature ride. From there, you can connect to the Reabold Hill trail system or pedal down to the coast via Perry Lakes. The terrain here is a mix—sealed paths inside the park, with some gravel options if you go further afield.

• Great for morning rides with cooler temps and birdlife

• Fraser Avenue Lookout is ideal for a coffee break

• Combine with Subiaco shops and markets for a full-day outing

• Native flora and fauna for that Aussie bushland feel

While mountain bikes are best for the extended gravel trails, any bike works well for the sealed inner loops. This area’s a top pick for nature lovers who also want easy access to the city. And hey, nothing beats wrapping up your ride with a picnic overlooking the Swan River.

If you're up for a challenge, consider continuing to City Beach or even loop back via the Mounts Bay Road riverside path for a 30+ kilometer round-trip that checks all the boxes: nature, city, and coastline.