The Thousands

What better way to start the new year than with a good old fashioned day of cycling? Stuff Norton Summit, I’m thinking dappled sunlight, vineyards and potential beach detours. I’m thinking the Coast to Vines Rail Trail.

This is a ‘no lycra necessary’ pursuit. Pop your single speed on the train and enjoy the sea views from the comfort of an air conditioned carriage all the way to Noarlunga. It’s cheating a little – the real trail starts at Marino Rocks – but I won’t tell if you don’t. From N-town it’s only about 50km of well-signposted rail corridor down to Willunga and back. Easy, right? Still, here are a few tips that I learnt the hard way, so you don’t have to. You’re welcome.

1. Your step-through and its basket are great for going to the farmers’ markets, but a lengthy cycle into a headwind is a little ambitious. If your bike has gears you will be in a much better position than those of us who are foolishly without. (That said, I only had to dismount and walk once. OK, twice).
2. You’re nowhere near Oslo, sorry.
3. Ditch the extra weight. You do not need to take the heaviest camera you own (to be honest, until you get to McLaren Vale if you’re not riding through outer suburbia then it’s all kind of brown, windswept and barren anyway, apart from a couple of cute pine-lined cuttings through the hills and some rather flighty sheep). Likewise, leave War And Peace at home. You will not be slipping in a couple of chapters every few kilometers. You will be happily cycling. (Sadly, this also means that loading up your panniers with Shiraz is probably not on the cards. See tip 4).
4. Wine is great, and wine tasting is even greater, but just remember that you’ve got the return trip in the burning sun ahead of you. Because I’m motherly, I advise that you to take a bottle of water and some sunscreen. You’re welcome!