On your bike

He’s got a whole bike race named after him, so we asked Cadel Evans to give us a rundown of the event and a few tips on where else to go.

It’s an event that’s been embraced by the community since its inception in 2016, and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race (1-2 February) is set to again attract both professional riders and hopeful wannabes in 2025.

The races take part on the streets of Geelong, Barwon Heads and Torquay, with elite men’s and women’s races, as well as the People’s Ride and Family Ride, all free to watch for anyone who doesn’t like to jump in the saddle. It’s an event Cadel looks forward to each summer. “It’s my ‘legacy’ in the sport, so I love the whole weekend,” he says. “The racing is, of course, the highlight.

Here are a few suggestions from Cadel about his favourite spots.

Got a summertime ritual?
When I have a sweet tooth, the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie on the way to Anglesea has more amazing chocolate and ice-cream than you can imagine.

What’s your favourite detour?
Point Addis – it has the best view of the coast at this end of the Great Ocean Road.

Do you have a regular getaway?
I have family in the Apollo Bay area, so that’s become my coastal getaway. The access there to coastal hiking and inland cycling is fantastic.

Favourite mountain trail?
My fondest memories as a young mountain biker were riding out to Craig's Hut in the Victorian High Country.

Best summer beer garden?
It’s at the Forrest Brewing Company, right by the Forrest mountain bike trails in the Otways.

And best cycling trails or road riding routes around Victoria? Cadel says get on your bike for these.

Top metropolitan road riding routes?
The first real ride I ever did was to Kinglake, so I have a real affection for the climb up from both St Andrews and Humevale.

Top mountain bike tracks and trails across the state?
Head to Forrest Mountain Bike Park.

Top extended regional ride?
From Bright to either Mt Beauty or Mt Buffalo.