IF you prefer to do your mountain bike riding far from the madding crowd, Meadowbank MTB might be the place for you. Open only by private bookings and scheduled ride days, Tasmania’s newest mountain bike park is based a the Derwent Valley’s Meadowbank Vineyard and you can even fly in and out by seaplane.
The family-owned vinery is set on 2500 acres at Meadowbank, just past Bushy Park. The Ellis family is now offering a unique experience combining the thrill of mountain biking with premium Tasmanian wine and food.
Speaking at a media launch in Hobart earlier this week, Alex Heroys of Destination Southern Tasmania said mountain bike tourists were flocking to the state to experience some of the world’s best riding trails. “The Meadowbank MTB is unique because it’s not open to the public other than on advertised ride days,” he said.
“Meadowbank is offering ride first then enjoy the amazing wine options later, as all the mountain bike tracks end at the Meadowbank Winery where a wine tasting lunch will be available. You can also fly in or out via the Above and Beyond Seaplane,” he said.
Meadowbank’s Gerald Ellis said the trails were open to group and corporate bookings. “We are providing exclusive use of the tracks for the duration of the booking – up to a maximum of 30 riders,” Mr Ellis said. “The trails have a 300m vertical drop and approximately 13km of professionally-built tracks.
“The trails are designed for inclusiveness, group riding and enjoyment for all levels of skill. Our goal is to offer a boutique, truly Tasmanian experience combining the thrill of mountain biking with premium Tasmanian wine and the beauty of the Derwent Valley,” Mr Ellis said.
There is more information at meadowbankmtb.com.au
Photo: Meadowbank MTB co-owners Gerald Ellis and Simon Tyrrell with Meadowbank guide and semi-professional rider Leyla Sharman.
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