Central Basin Loop
Cycling RouteA classic, completely flat circuit that traces the most manicured edges of the main lake. You will glide past national museums, beautiful public parks, and stunning water features. The dedicated paths keep you entirely separated from road traffic, ensuring a safe and incredibly relaxing journey. It is the perfect introduction to the grand scale of the city.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
This ride offers the highest concentration of iconic sights with minimal physical effort. It showcases the brilliant interplay between the man made monuments and the serene waterfront, providing endless photo opportunities along flat, perfectly maintained pathways.
RIDER'S NOTEBOOK
- • Take a short detour onto Aspen Island to hear the bells of the Carillon up close.
- • The light during the early hours reflects beautifully off the national buildings.
- 1PHOTO SPOT
National Carillon
A towering architectural chime situated on a small island, producing beautiful musical notes that drift across the water.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1970, making it 56 years old
to next stop - 2ARCHITECTURE
National Library of Australia
This monumental building features striking classical architecture and houses an unmatched collection of national literature and historical documents.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1960, making it 66 years old
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 3PHOTO SPOT
Captain Cook Memorial Jet
An impressive water feature that blasts a massive column of water high into the air, creating spectacular rainbows in the sunlight.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1970, making it 56 years old
Other Cycling Routes
Check out other routes in Canberra
Parliamentary Triangle Ride
A majestic ride through the very core of Australian democracy, utilizing wide, sweeping avenues. The route takes you past immense government buildings, manicured rose gardens, and grand lawns. It offers a tangible sense of the scale and ambition of the city's architectural design. The pathways are broad and incredibly well suited for leisurely cycling.
view route
Lake Ginninderra Circuit
Located in the northern district of Belconnen, this peaceful trail loops around a smaller, highly scenic body of water. The route winds through dense eucalyptus trees, wide open parklands, and past sandy artificial beaches. It is incredibly popular with locals but remains largely undiscovered by tourists. The varying landscapes keep the ride visually stimulating throughout.
view route
Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Commonwealth Park Walk
A highly curated landscape featuring hidden ponds, spectacular outdoor sculptures, and an open air theatre. The pathways weave through lush, varied foliage designed to offer visual interest in every season. It provides a deeply peaceful atmosphere despite being located directly adjacent to the busy civic centre. The views looking south across the water toward the mountains are continually impressive.
Anzac Parade Memorial Walk
A solemn and powerful walk down the grand crimson gravel avenue that serves as the city's primary ceremonial axis. The broad street is flanked by numerous highly evocative monuments dedicated to different military conflicts and service branches. The avenue is intentionally aligned to create a direct visual link between the parliament and the war memorial. It is a deeply moving exploration of national sacrifice and history.