37km | Woolamai - Inverloch | Feast on panoramic views of the dramatic Bass Strait along Victoria’s only coastal rail trail.
As Victoria’s only coastal rail trail, the Bass Coast Rail Trail sets high expectations, which are surpassed with an ovation-worthy ride at the meeting of land and sea. Vivid green hills seemingly tumble into the ocean thanks to dramatic cliffs and rocky headlands.
This ride can be done in either direction. The trail is a mostly flat shared pathway with two moderate climbs. Take care at road crossings on the busy Bass Highway.
Dogs on leads welcome, horses permitted from Woolamai to Wonthaggi only.
Woolamai - Anderson 7km
Start the ride from Anderson on your bike (or Woolamai if you’re on foot) with a scenic journey through bucolic farmland as the trail connects with the coast.
Horses welcome on this section.
Anderson - Wonthaggi 16km
Take a breather at Kilcunda. This pocket-sized beachside town is blessed with options for some good tucker thanks to famed cafe Kilcunda General Store and the iconic Killy Pub.
Make your way down to Shelley Beach, living up to its name thanks to millions of teeny shells, or while away a couple of hours at the tranquil Mouth of the Powlett River. You’re in for a treat as you head out of town with a crossing of the magnificent Kilcunda Trestle Bridge over Bourne Creek. Take a moment to admire the views toward rocky outcrops from the heritage-listed beauty.
Horses welcome on this section.
Wonthaggi - Inverloch 14km
Next you’ll pass the unmissable wind turbines of the Wonthaggi Wind Farm. These grand ladies create a renewable energy source and power more than 6,000 homes locally.
Continue on toward Wonthaggi. The bustling township has a thriving retail scene and a burgeoning cafe scene that has breathed new life into the town.
Celebrate Wonthaggi’s coal mining history at the State Coal Mine. The open air museum offers mine tours, trolley rides and interactive displays, plus walking tracks and picnic areas around the tranquil grounds.
Ride through peaceful bushland, wetlands and rolling countryside that leads straight into Inverloch.
Explore Inverloch’s boutique shops, cafés and beautiful beaches, from the calm waters of Anderson Inlet to the rolling waves of Surf Beach. Take a scenic drive along the Bunurong Coast to discover dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and the iconic Eagles Nest rock formation.
Getting there
Travel via the Monash Fwy (M1) and South Gippsland Hwy (A440) from Melbourne, and then the Bass Hwy (A420) towards Phillip Island.
Explore The surrounds
Kilcunda
The town centre is blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of small, but with fabulous eateries and coastside views, it’s well worth a stop.
Kilcunda Trestle Bridge
Admire the iconic Kilcunda Trestle Bridge, where Bourne Creek meets the sea and photographers flock for its rustic charm.
George Bass Coastal Walk
7km, 2 hrs one way | San Remo - Kilcunda | Discover the Bass Coast’s unique beauty, taking in dramatic cliff top views and secluded beaches. Few walks offer…
Wonthaggi
This bustling township has a thriving retail scene and is the place to refuel and stock up.
Bunurong Marine National Park
The Bunurong Marine National Park is home to rocky cliffs plunging into the sea, windswept beaches, imposing headlands, sandy bays and rock pools.
South Gippsland Beaches
Find your happy place amongst this stretch of coastline set to satisfy, with plunging cliffs, gentle turquoise waters and squeaky sand.
Anderson to San Remo Shared Pathway
8km, 2hrs | Anderson - San Remo | A satisfyingly challenging walk between two towns at the doorstep of Phillip Island, affording sweeping views of the…
San Remo to Cowes Cycling Track
17km | San Remo - Cowes | Tour through Phillip Island while basking in the vibes of the popular towns and the bucolic countryside. No need to be overwhelmed by…
Inverloch
The charms of the hamlet stretch beyond its dashing coastline, with its laid-back vibe, cornucopia of eateries and sunsets that never go out of vogue.