Ride the best of the south west in 2026
Where World-Class Gravel Meets Australia’s Wild Beauty
This October, Australia’s South West transforms into the nation’s premier playground for off-road cycling. Rugged trails, pristine forests, turquoise coastlines and world-class race events collide for an action-packed month that draws athletes, adventurers and spectators from across the globe.
Whether you’re chasing the podium or the perfect weekend escape, Australia’s South West is the heart of cycling events in 2026.
With three headline events, the UCI Gravel World Championships, Cape to Cape MTB and the 2026 Oceania Mountain Bike Championships – Enduro, October becomes the ultimate celebration of riding in nature. Pair race weekends with world-class food and wine, whale watching, craft breweries, ancient forests and the region’s laid-back coastal charm.
2026 UCI Gravel World Championships
2026 UCI Gravel World Championships
Cape to Cape MTB
Cape to Cape MTB
2026 Oceania Mountain Bike Championships – Enduro
2026 Oceania Mountain Bike Championships – Enduro
October 2026 is your invitation to experience Australia’s South West at its very best. From world-class gravel and mountain bike racing to unforgettable landscapes, food, wine and coastal escapes, this is more than a cycling trip, it’s a full South West adventure!
Whether you’re here to race, ride or support, we’ve curated ideas, itineraries and local experiences to help you plan a visit that goes well beyond the finish line. Start planning now and turn your cycling calendar into a truly memorable South West getaway.
TRAVELLING TO & AROUND THE REGION
Australia’s South West is easily accessible from Perth, making it a convenient destination for visitors travelling from interstate and overseas. Perth Airport offers direct flights from major Australian cities and key international hubs, with a range of car hire options available at the airport. From Perth, the South West is a scenic 2–3 hour drive, with well-maintained highways connecting key cycling event locations including Nannup, Busselton, Margaret River and Collie. Driving offers the flexibility to move between events, explore regional towns and transport bikes with ease, while coach services also operate from Perth to major centres across the region.
USEFUL LINKS
STAY CLOSE TO THE ACTION
Looking for accommodation that’s close to the courses? Look no further!
- Visitors to the UCI Gravel Championships are recommended to stay between Busselton and Pemberton
- Visitors attending the Cape to Cape MTB are recommended to stay between Busselton and Nannup
- Visitors staying for the 2026 Oceania Mountain Bike Championships – Enduro are recommended to stay in Collie, Harvey, the Ferguson Valley and Dardanup, Donnybrook or Bunbury
**Be sure to check travel distances prior to booking **
Must See And Do
Australia’s South West is a region abundant in nature, ancient culture,indulgence, adventure, exceptional produce and simple joys. Looking for something to do when you’re not racing? Check out some of these awesome activities for all ages and abilities!
EAT & DRINK
Whether you are carb-loading for a big day out on the course, or you are a supporter who can’t pass up an opportunity to experience some of Australia’s finest food, wine and produce – we’ve got you!
Other Events
Share beers and banter with filmmakers. Sip shiraz and savour oysters. Experience wildflower festivals, intimate wine tastings, the world’s best surfers taking on the largest waves, or fine dining among the vines. Find out what else is happening while you you’re in Australia’s South West.
Wild Gravel
|
A Cycling and Running Adventure in the Stirling Ranges
Coastrek Margaret River
|
Explore the spectacular coastline of the Margaret River region with Coastrek and challenge...
Dardanup Bull & Barrel Festival
|
A free family festival culminating in the ‘lighting of the bull’ fire sculpture.
Northcliffe Bee Festival
|
Get ready to feel the buzz at the Northcliffe Bee Festival, a vibrant...
Festival of Country Gardens: Spring
|
The Festival of Gardens Spring 2026 in the Southern Forests & Valleys offers...
inspiration
Let us help you fill your days with our inspirational itineraries and blogs
Wildflowers of Australia’s South West: Your Ultimate Bloom Guide
Each spring, Australia’s South West transforms into a living wildflower garden, with more...
Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure
Plan your whale watching adventure in Australia’s South West during the Whale Watching...
South West Foodie Road Trip
Hitting the road? Follow this six-day itinerary and your stomach won’t be sorry.
Winter Wonders in the Southern Forests & Valleys: An Unforgettable Journey Through Karri Country
Sip, savour, explore, and reconnect with nature in the Southern Forests and Valleys...
