Stretching 100 kilometers across Drysdale and beyond, the Bellarine Rail Trail Century Ride offers an invigorating commitment to those ready to experience Victoria's coastal surrounds from a new vantage point. This primarily flat trail traces the path of a former railway line, inviting riders and walkers into an environment where nature asserts itself quietly but firmly. The terrain is largely compact gravel with occasional sealed sections, suitable for hybrid and mountain bikes or sturdy hiking shoes for walkers. Elevation gain is modest—approximately 250 meters over the entire route—keeping the physical challenge focused more on endurance than steep climbs.

Starting from Drysdale, the trail moves past verdant farmland edges where the breeze seems to push you forward with purpose, while eucalyptus groves stand guard, their leaves rustling with subtle encouragement. As you progress, the path hooks near lakes and wetlands, where waterfowl dare you to pause and take in the ephemeral beauty. The wide-open sky above shifts from morning gold to afternoon cobalt, each hour offering fresh light to frame sweeping coastal views early in the ride around Queenscliff.

Hydration is key here; while there are towns at intervals where you can fill bottles or grab snacks, carrying adequate water and light energy foods is practical advice. Footwear should prioritize grip and comfort—trail surfaces can shift underfoot and subtle debris from native flora appears without warning. Early morning or late afternoon rides yield cooler temperatures and softer sunlight, helping to avoid the heat spike common in peak summer months.

A century ride demands respect for endurance, especially given the trail’s length and combination of open rural exposure and narrow forested sections. Time your trip with realistic goals—many riders complete it in a day, but splitting over two can deepen the connection to this fiercely alive landscape without feeling rushed. Whether you come keen on fast laps or a mindful walk, the Bellarine Rail Trail will reply with an experience that’s firmly rooted in the earth itself, a straightforward but richly textured interaction between adventurer and environment.

Plan with confidence: recharge stops cluster in Drysdale, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, and Queenscliff, each offering basics and local character. Respect the environment by staying on track, minimizing noise, and remembering that the natural elements are participants in your journey, not obstacles to be overcome.