Spanning 161km through the heart of the Somerset region, the BVRT is Australia’s longest recreational rail trail, and one of the most rewarding ways to explore Somerset’s countryside.
The trail is a top-rated attraction in Trip Advisor (with a rating of 4.5 stars) and for good reason with a route that winds through charming country towns, scenic bushland, farmlands and rolling country hillside.
Here’s why the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is the ultimate adventure this Autumn.
A Rail Trail for Everyone
One of the best things about the BVRT is its accessibility. With gentle gradients, the trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels, from families with kids to seasoned cyclists.
You don’t have to commit to the full 161km either. The trail is broken into manageable sections with multiple access points, allowing you to choose a short scenic ride, a half-day outing or a full weekend adventure.
Click here to find out more about the sections on the BVRT.
Country Towns, Cafes and Character
Unlike many trails that take you deep into the bush, the BVRT connects with a number of Somerset’s vibrant villages. Fernvale, Lowood, Toogoolawah, Esk and Linville offer perfect rest stops where you can refuel with a great coffee, a bakery treat or a pub lunch before hopping back on the trail.
The Linville Store and Cafe also has a charging station for e-bike users of the BVRT.
Check out our food recommendations here.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Whether you wish to ride for a few hours or take on a multi-day adventure, your trail experience is fully customisable. Stay overnight or select your preferred section and enjoy a leisurely ride.
Horse riders are welcome on the trail too, with Nash’s Horse Riding offering guided experiences that let you explore the BVRT and Somerset’s countryside on horseback.
Beds For Weary Heads
For cyclists wanting to turn the trip into a multiday adventure, there are plenty of welcoming places to rest along the trail.
In Linville, the Rail Trail Refuge has been purpose-built with cyclists in mind and is a great stop along your rail trail journey. It’s a welcoming and practical stopover for solo travellers and small groups, offering comfort just metres from the trail and even includes a plunge pool for rejuvenating those tired muscles.
In the heart of Linville, the iconic and historic Linville Hotel delivers the classic country experiences with hearty meals downstairs and traditional pub-style accommodation upstairs.
Further along in Toogoolawah, Peddlars Rest offers modern boutique accommodation directly on the trail. This comfortable overnight stop will allow you to relax with a pub meal and enjoy a proper night’s sleep before you hit the trail again the following day.
For those travelling with their own set-up, Esk Caravan Park provides a convenient and relaxed base close to the BVRT, ideal for campers and caravaners exploring the region at their own pace.
From Esk Caravan Park, you can organise a shuttle bus pickup by Out There Cycling. To book a shuttle, click here.
Don’t want to ride solo? Join the Gravel Cartel for organised or guided trail rides. Find out more here.
It’s A Sweet Ride
Part of what makes the BVRT so memorable isn’t just the scenery but the notable historic landmarks you pass through on the way.
As you pedal along the trail, you’ll cross timber trestle bridges and remnants of the region’s rail history. One of the most unforgettable landmarks is the Yimbun Tunnel, a heritage-listed tunnel, hand-carved through solid rock in 1910.
Further along is the impressive Lockyer Creek Railway Bridge, a beautifully restored timber railway bridge that provides stunning views of the countryside.
Autumn is a great time of the year to explore this iconic South East Queensland Rail Trail with a cooler climate and Somerset’s villages in full visitor friendly mode.
Create your own adventure along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Start your planning here.
