Ballarat - Lake Wendouree Loop Ride
See the highlights of central Ballarat on two wheels. Ride around two of the city's most iconic outdoor spaces - Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park. The Lake Wendouree Loop Ride is a newly signposted family-friendly bike path that will take you from central Ballarat to beautiful Lake Wendouree. There are plenty of attractions, cafes, playgrounds and green spaces to explore on route. Bring your own bikes on the V/Line or get in touch with Ballarat Bike Hire ahead of your travel dates.
The Lake Wendouree loop is 10km return with a gentle grade suitable for all levels of riding experience. The trail starts opposite Ballarat Railway Station. You'll follow quiet back streets before joining a gravel shared path around the lake, returning along a dedicated off-road shared path down the middle of historic Sturt Street.
Minimal road crossings means this ride is family-friendly and there's more time to take in the views.
There's numerous cafes and attractions to enjoy along the way. Don't forget to pack your picnic basket and stop by the Ballarat Farmers' Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month.
Allow 1.5 - 2 hours for the main lake loop (return), with extra time for refreshments and photo stops. If you're feeling energetic, there are also options to extend your ride around Victoria Park, out to the Arch of Victory or even along the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail.
Map of Route
Sites and Attractions Along the Way
- Ballarat Old Cemetery
- Ballarat Botanical Gardens
- Robert Clark Conservatory in the Botanical Gardens
- Ballarat Tramway Museum & Tram Rides
- Lake Wendouree Pedal Boat Hire (seasonal)
- Golden City Paddle Steamer
- Picture-perfect boatsheds and jetties
- Windmill Drive Adventure Playground
- Ballarat Farmers' Market (2nd & 4th Saturday)
Restaurant Lola (opposite the trail head) has a coffee window, a cocktail caravan and French-inspired casual dining. Near the Old Ballarat Cemetery, you will ride past Hotel Canberra, where the Stables Cafe offers locally roasted Karon Farm Coffee.
Lakeside options include Pipers by the Lake (also offers pre-ordered picnic packs), Ballarat Yacht Club, The Lake View Hotel, Boatshed Restaurant and Racers Cafe and Bar.
There's also the Tramcar Icecream Co near the Tram Museum, or you can take a break at a cute corner cafe tucked away in neighbouring streets.
What if I Don't Have My Own Bike?
Neuron e-bikes (suitable for adults only) are available from the trail head opposite the Ballarat Railway Station.
E-bikes are available 'first-come, first served' and can be booked via the Neuron mobility app. You can use the same app to hire the orange e-scooters you'll see about town. Each e-bike has a helmet and a basket on the front for your backpack or picnic hamper.
Push bikes for adults, youths and children are also available from Ballarat Bike Hire. These must be pre-booked ahead of travel and can be dropped off/picked up at various locations on request.
Location
140-202 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat 3350 Map
