Great Victorian Rail Trail Adventure

This adventure is one which I've been looking forward to for what feels like years. As a kid, and being train mad, I camped near the rail line in the ’70s with my Dad and remember seeing trains in action. Then in the ’80s, with the rail line shut, I'd constantly try and see the remnants of the line on my many day trips to Mount Buller skiing. Today, the Great Victorian Rail Trail gives us all the chance to relive the past, experience the towns, eat at the cafes and restaurants, see the incredible views and unwind in a way that is only possible on a bike.

Our DOP Jake and MTB cinematographer Dom filming the Vandy challenge intro at the top of Mount Buller.

Our DOP Jake and MTB cinematographer Dom filming the Vandy challenge intro at the top of Mount Buller.

Our Executive Producer Leslie and DOP Jake getting the perfect shot in Alexandra.

Our Executive Producer Leslie and DOP Jake getting the perfect shot in Alexandra.

Our five-day adventure took Vandy and me from Seymour, nestled on the Goulburn River banks, to the very top on Mount Buller. We explored the towns along the way, real gems of the GVRT. Yea, Alexandra, Yarck, Bonnie Doon, Mansfield, and more. Towns with real heart and a welcoming kindness. We met so many locals who were passionate and authentic. Wes and Terry from Trawool Estate perfectly encapsulate everything great about this ride. Trawool Estate was a simply stunning rest point, a must-visit for everyone.

Some stunning scenery along the Great Victorian Rail Trail near Yea.

Some stunning scenery along the Great Victorian Rail Trail near Yea.

The view from our accommodation on a stunning foggy morning in Eildon.

The view from our accommodation on a stunning foggy morning in Eildon.

Vandy and Deetz posing for a quick snap on the rail trail!

Vandy and Deetz posing for a quick snap on the rail trail!

The views of the rolling hills along the rail trail make it a ride to remember. Sunrises and sunsets are magical. With the gentle valleys and easy climbs, it's hard not to get lost in the beauty. But it's also real, with the history of the area revealing itself around every bend. We saw why the Cascades Trail in Lake Mountain is rated as one of the best in Victoria and swum in the epic Eildon — even managed to live a little cinematic history in Bonnie Doon!

The locals at every stage were wonderful, and I think that's what sets this ride apart for me. Meeting so many kind people makes it extra special, and riding the GVRT is something I intend to do a lot more!

 
Dieter Kahsnitz

Deetz has been riding MTBs since the 1980s. His sense of humor and steadfast refusal to grow up means he can connect with anyone. Being a dad, he gives Trail Towns a family feel (and heaps of dad jokes).

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