Over the New Year I was able to take my bike on holidays for the first time courtesy of new roof racks and a Whispbar bike carrier.

So with the family and car loaded up and my trusty Trek on the roof we headed off to the Gold Coast.

Our base was Broadbeach which is central on the Gold Coast and a great place to ride from.

The best ride I did was from Broadbeach north through Surfers Paradise to The Spit at Southport. Passing Seaworld, you continue on to The Spit which is a permanent sand spit that separates the Southport Broadwater from the Pacific Ocean. Then I headed back south towards Burleigh Heads. From Broadbeach heading south along famous Hedges Avenue — millionaire’s row and one of Queensland’s most iconic streets — then Albatross Avenue, Mermaids Beach though Nobbys Beach and Miami to Burleigh Heads.

Burleigh is a great place to stop for a drink break or coffee or just to soak in the view of the stunning Gold Coast skyline, looming north.

Running sculpture at Nobbys Beach

The total distance of this round trip was 44kms and mainly on quieter roads with designated cycling lanes. The best time to ride is early in the morning for stunning sunrises, less traffic and cooler temperatures. It’s a popular cycling route and easy to tag along with others if you are riding by yourself and need some added motivation.

It’s fairly flat but an enjoyable ride close to some of the best beaches in Australia with always lots to see and a great holiday atmosphere. It’s possible to take a bit of time and stop and enjoy some of the coastal sights along the way.

Highly recommended.