Western Explorer

Western Explorer is more a journey of discovery than a traditional retreat, taking riders through some of the newest and most remote trail networks on Tasmania's West Coast. The route runs from Tippogoree Hills near George Town through the renowned Maydena Bike Park, a unique riding experience at Meadowbank Winery, Mount Owen above Queenstown, and the Heemskirk Range near Zeehan.

The trip leans into exploration and adventure rather than skills coaching, with harder trails than most of the operator's other tours, though green options are available at each stop. Overnights range from a luxury start at Launceston's Peppers Silo Hotel to Giant's Table and Cottages near Maydena and stays in Queenstown, with local dining experiences including a private film night at the historic Paragon Theatre.

Highlights:

• Explore the new Tippogoree Hills trail network near George Town
• Ride Maydena Bike Park, on the edge of World Heritage wilderness
• A unique mountain bike and long-lunch experience at Meadowbank Winery
• Descend Mount Owen's Waterfall trail above Queenstown, with black-run options
• Ride the Heemskirk Range trails near Zeehan, including Oonah Hill
• Dinner and a private film night at the historic Paragon Theatre, Zeehan

Surface and terrain:

Purpose-built mountain bike trail networks across five West Coast locations, from green trails to harder blue and black descents (Mount Owen, Maydena). Queenstown and Zeehan trails are largely crushed gravel rather than dirt. Shuttles are used extensively for the bigger descent days. A full-suspension bike is recommended.

Suitable for:

Confident intermediate to advanced women riders; not recommended for complete beginners, as the focus is on exploration and adventure rather than skills coaching (the operator suggests its Gravel and Greens retreat for cautious beginners instead).