ALL ABOARD THIS NORTH-SIDE RIDE
What’s the train ride you take when you’re not taking a train ride? The super-scenic Intercity Cycleway. This bikeriding trail runs alongside an old railway line, providing an easy and relatively flat route to Hobart’s northern suburbs. There may not be many trains on the track these days, but you’re guaranteed some fine pedal-power action instead. Going all the way to MONA in Berriedale (and beyond), this 10 km ride has fantastic views of the mighty Derwent River and plenty of signposted stop-offs.
Starting near the Hobart Cenotaph, the wow factor kicks in straight away as you ride past the grand colonial Government House, under the Tasman Bridge and alongside the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Hop off your bike at Cornelian Bay if you feel like a beachside stroll, then cruise on through New Town and multicultural Moonah, where the landscape morphs from scene-rific’ to street-art-marked semiindustrial suburbia. The hidden oasis that is Kawasemi Japanese Tea House (reviewed) makes a great lunchtime pit stop. Post refreshments, keep heading north and turn right off the cycleway at the Barossa Creek Path (look for the sign just past Elwick Road).
This’ll take you down to the not-to-be-missed Glenorchy Art & Sculpture Park (GASP!). Next head back towards the cycleway and hit Hobart’s largest north-side suburb, Glenorchy. If you’re feeling thrifty, hop off the track and have a look around Main Road: this is an op-shopper’s paradise. Keep going (c’mon, you’re almost there!) to reach your last stop, MONA. The final uphill ride will have you huffing and puffing, but don’t fret: you and your bike can catch the ferry back to town after you’ve explored this art museum’s wonders. But for now, straddle your trusty two-wheeled steed and get track-side.
