Cycling the Encounter Bikeway from Victor Harbor to Goolwa

It was a beautiful sunny spring day when I set out to explore the Encounter Bikeway. This stunning coastal route stretches along the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, offering cyclists like myself the opportunity to experience breathtaking ocean views, charming seaside towns, and the fresh sea breeze.

Spanning approximately 31 kilometres from Victor Harbor to Goolwa, I knew that today I was in for a memorable cycling adventure.

I found the track very easy to ride, though it wasn’t quite as flat as I’d initially expected. My route was reasonably easy to follow, with most sections situated on coastal pathways and some quieter residential roads. While there were some ups and downs, none proved too challenging for my cycling abilities.

As I cycled along the bikeway, I was constantly amazed by the stunning coastal views. The magnificent vistas of the Southern Ocean kept me company throughout my journey, with its ever-changing colours creating a perfect backdrop for my ride.

My journey wasn’t just about the views though. As I rode past holiday shacks, the enticing smell of breakfast being cooked had my taste buds watering.

These sensory experiences added an extra dimension to my ride through several picturesque coastal towns, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

  • Middleton:
    I made my way through Middleton, known for its excellent surfing spots. Though I didn’t stop to catch any waves myself, I enjoyed watching the local surf culture in action as I cycled past.
  • Port Elliot:
    One of my favourite stops was Port Elliot, where I took time to explore the famous Horseshoe Bay. I particularly enjoyed my coffee break at the Port Elliot Bakery, which provided the perfect opportunity to rest and refuel. This seaside treat was exactly what I needed to replenish my energy for the rest of my journey.

Although I didn’t need one, Goolwa does have an option to hire an e-bike if you are looking for the electric assistance and a very easy day out, allowing plenty of energy for stops along the way. These e-bikes are particularly wonderful when you need an extra boost for tackling the occasional inclines.

My cycling adventure along the Encounter Bikeway from Victor Harbor to Goolwa exceeded my expectations. The combination of stunning coastal scenery, charming towns, and the freedom of exploring on two wheels made for an unforgettable experience.

My top tip would be to pick a nice sunny day for this ride, as I did. The ocean views are simply spectacular in good weather, and the entire experience becomes even more memorable. Whether cycling the entire route or just a section, the Encounter Bikeway offers one of South Australia’s most picturesque coastal adventures.

The route exceeded my expectations in terms of variety and interest.

While not completely flat as I initially thought, the ups and downs added character to my journey. With plenty of stops available along the way, my day out on the Encounter Bikeway was truly memorable.

Frequently asked questions

The Encounter Bikeway follows the coastline where British explorer Matthew Flinders and French explorer Nicolas Baudin met in 1802. This meeting gave the region its name, “Encounter Bay.” The route passes by several historical sites, including the first lighthouse in South Australia at Port Elliot.

Riders may spot various native plants such as coastal wattle and pigface. Wildlife includes kangaroos, echidnas, and numerous bird species like pelicans and ospreys. During whale watching season (June to October), Southern Right Whales can often be seen from vantage points along the coast.

Yes, each season offers a unique experience. Spring (September to November) brings wildflowers and mild temperatures. Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach stops but can be hot. Autumn (March to May) offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (June to August) is best for whale watching but can be chilly and wet.

The Encounter Bikeway includes several accessible sections with smooth, wide paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Some areas offer adaptive bike rentals, including hand-cycles and tandem bikes for vision-impaired riders. Rest areas and accessible toilets are available at regular intervals along the route.

Yes, several events take place near the bikeway throughout the year. These include the Goolwa Wooden Boat Festival in April, the Victor Harbor Rock ‘n’ Roll Festival in September, and the Port Elliot Show in October. Participating in these events can add a unique cultural dimension to the cycling experience.