Australian pedal power

Whether it's leisurely pedaling along vineyard paths or vigorous mountain biking across outback plains – a cycling holiday in Australia allows visitors to set their own pace.

Cycling novices and experts alike are catered for by Australia's diverse range of cycling activities. Tours of varying lengths and difficulties are available and bold adventurers are offered challenging expeditions of up to 15 days.

Most hire companies have different sorts of bikes available including tandems, BMX and mountain bikes - some even have pedal cars for families. Helmets are compulsory in Australia and are usually included in the hire charge.

Boomerang Bicycle Tours offers many tours ranging in length from two to seven days. Tours operate in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland and are best suited to individuals who have a reasonable level of fitness – but don't be put off! A support vehicle is available at any stage providing a good touring option, especially for non-cycling partners.

One of the country's most exciting rides is the Mawson Trail, an 800-kilometre trail combining the suburbs of Adelaide with the magnificence of the Flinders and Mount Lofty Ranges. It follows country roads and reserves, taking visitors from city to outback with spectacular views and plenty of wildlife along the way.

For wine connoisseurs, pedal-power offers a unique way to enjoy Australia's vineyards. Gourmet tours of Australia offer six-day tours of winegrowing areas in each state incorporating wine tastings, deluxe accommodation and picnics at spectacular locations. Weekend cycle tours of Hunter Valley wineries are particularly popular.

Tasmania's Mount Wellington presents a challenge for keen cyclists. Visitors are transported to the summit where they experience an exhilarating three-hour ride down the mountain face.

Tours by Remote Outback Cycle also offer adventure cycling at its best. Visitors travel along rugged desert tracks and undiscovered sands, before cycling around the base of Uluru. These tours can be accomplished either in segments or as one complete journey.

More thrilling adventures are on offer at Queensland's Off The Edge Sports Tours. Fully guided off-road experiences are available for beginners and experts alike. However the Gold Coast Quad Challenge is particularly challenging - and definitely not for the faint-hearted! This non-stop adrenalin pumping experience begins with off-road mountain biking through forests. A jet boat then takes visitors down river to a waiting helicopter which flies enthusiasts to their final challenge – a bungy jump!

To learn more about Australia visit www.australia.com, featuring over 10,000 pages of information to help you plan your holiday.

Make sure you join the Aussie Travel Club when you visit the site. Club members receive regular e-mail bulletins on new and exciting travel ideas and the latest deals to Australia.