There’s nothing better than hopping on a bike and going for a cycle with the family. But if it’s been a while since you hopped on the old two-wheeler, you may be on the lookout for an awesome trail. Wherever you are in Australia, we’ve got the perfect answer for a classic biking trip. And since everything’s better with your furry friends, you can even bring your pets along. Well, your dog, at least. The cat probably doesn’t fancy it too much.

NSW

Centennial Parklands, Sydney

If you’re looking for the perfect place for a full day of cycling, you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere better than the Centennial Parklands. Folks have been riding around this gorgeously green expanse since the early 1900s, and it remains one of the very best biking spots in Sydney. There’s a range of lanes suited to every ability level, and loads of space to walk your dog as well.

VIC

Melbourne Bay Trail

This track takes you from St Kilda Pier to Bay Street, and incorporates everything from Luna Park to the charming little cafes of Acland Street. The Melbourne Bay Trail is six kilometres of urban coastal heaven, and it’s a must for every keen cyclist visiting the city. The views over the bay are stunning, and the route is flat enough for anyone to be able to manage.

QLD

Wynnum-Manly Track

Another leisurely seaside jaunt, the Wynnum-Manly Track is brilliant for both walking and cycling. It kicks off at Oyster Point, where sparkling blue waters and distant yachts make for some fine eye candy. From there, you wind all the way around the beach to the trendy wine bars and yummy eateries of Manly, where you can replenish your strength in style.

SA

O’Halloran Hill Recreation Park

Whether you’re cycling, walking a dog or even riding a horse, you’re very welcome indeed at O’Halloran Hill. This place is all rolling plains, gentle hills and yawning gullies, with enough trees scattered about to keep things interesting. It’s not famed for its well-marked trails or state-of-the-art facilities, but it’s fantastic for those just seeking a massive dose of secluded nature.

WA

Wadandi Track, Margaret River

Just a few hours south of Perth, the Wadandi Track is a lovely way to take in the region’s farmland, vineyards and shady forests. This trail actually used to be a railway line, so it’s nice and flat, and is divided into four sections of varying lengths. It’s a great one for bird watchers, as many of the region’s most beautiful species can be found soaring and nesting above.

TAS

North South Track, Hobart

This one is very new, and was only completed in 2011. It was designed to be as aesthetically pleasing as it is practical, and the trail is littered with log rides, jumps and drystone walls. The clapper bridge over the New Town Rivulet is quite a sight, and the whole path is surrounded by the kind of dreamy woodland that makes Tasmania such a popular destination.

ACT

Weston Park, Yarralumla

Sprawling, well-maintained and full of things to do, Weston Park is definitely one of Canberra’s top outdoor spots. It’s packed with playgrounds, picturesque gardens, a massive lake and excellent paths, so cycling and dog hijinks are very much on the cards. Oh, and if you behave yourself, you might just be able to get up close to a herd of grazing kangaroos.

NT

Holmes Jungle Nature Park

There’s been a distinct lack of jaw-dropping rainforest on this list so far, so it’s time to change that. Holmes Jungle Nature Park is stuffed full of birds, reptiles and mammals, and the lush surrounds are just what you need on a hot day’s cycling. The trail is clearly marked, and there’s plenty of public toilets, drinking water and picnic tables along the way.

That lot should keep you busy. If your bike’s acting up, make sure you get it properly fixed before heading out. Check our cycle repair listings here.