Adelaide is a fantastic city for bike tours, thanks to its mix of urban charm, lush parks, and nearby wine regions. Unlike many destinations, Adelaide’s bike-friendly infrastructure and scenic routes make pedaling not just practical but genuinely enjoyable. For example, the McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike offers a relaxing way to explore South Australia’s renowned vineyards while enjoying locally produced food and regional varietals. Meanwhile, the Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour combines spectacular panoramic views with a wildlife encounter at Cleland Wildlife Park, making it perfect for nature lovers. With options ranging from half-day city rides to full-day vineyard explorations, Adelaide caters to all interests and fitness levels. Whether you want a leisurely ride through vineyards or an active day along coastal trails, there’s something for all.
Some of our favorite experiences include the Hahndorf food and wine E-bike Tour, which pairs scenic riding with tastings of cheeses, strawberries, and wines, and the Adelaide City to Sea Bike Tour, offering a relaxed ride from downtown to the coast with brunch and beach time included. For those seeking a lively social scene, the HandleBar Bike Tour with pub stops and dinner combines pedaling with pub-hopping, all within a fun group setting. Each tour offers a different taste of Adelaide and its surrounds, making this a city where bicycles truly give you a new perspective.
1. McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike
At number 1, the McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike stands out for its relaxed pace and small-group environment. This 8-hour tour includes round-trip transport from Adelaide, so you can focus on the fun. Once in McLaren Vale, you’ll cycle through Kuitpo Forest and past clusters of vineyards, stopping at at least two wineries for tastings of regional shiraz and other varietals. The tour emphasizes easy riding, making it accessible for most. The included lunch features fresh produce from local farms, adding a delightful culinary touch to the experience.
What makes this tour unique is its intimate setting—small groups of just nine people allow for personalized attention from the guide. Reviewers highlight the balanced mix of wine tasting, scenic riding, and good company. The guide, Ian, is known for his caring approach and full safety briefings, which reassures even first-time bikers. The tour’s value lies in its inclusivity—wine tastings, lunch, transport, and small-group size make it an excellent pick for leisurely wine lovers and those new to cycling.
Bottom line: this tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, wine, and food for anyone looking to explore South Australia’s famous wine region without rushing.
2. Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour from Adelaide
Coming in at number 2, the Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour is ideal for those wanting a bit of thrill with their scenery. This 4-hour guided downhill ride starts at Mount Lofty Summit, where you can soak in sweeping views of the Adelaide Hills. You’ll then descend on a manageable trail that’s suitable for riders comfortable on uneven terrain. The tour includes a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park, where you can see kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies, plus enjoy morning tea.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of wildlife spotting and downhill biking, making it appealing for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Reviewers frequently mention the personalized guidance and the breathtaking vistas, with many saying it exceeded their expectations. However, a few note that the descent can be steep and gravelly, so it’s best for those with a moderate level of biking confidence. The all equipment provided simplifies logistics.
Bottom line: perfect for active travelers who want an exhilarating ride with the chance to encounter native Australian wildlife, all with a professional guide leading the way.
3. Hahndorf Food and Wine E-Bike Tour
Number 3 is the Hahndorf food and wine E-Bike Tour, a 5-hour journey through the Adelaide Hills that combines e-biking with tastings. This tour visits three wineries, a cheese cellar, and a strawberry farm, with plenty of opportunities to sample local wines, cheeses, and fresh strawberries. The e-bikes make it easier to cover longer distances and tackle some inclines without breaking a sweat, which broadens the appeal for less-energetic riders.
What makes this tour stand out is its culinary focus—you get to carry home local food products as well as wine in pannier bags. The group size remains small, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience. Reviewers love the combination of scenic riding and food tasting, often praising guide Matt’s enthusiasm and regional knowledge. The tour is particularly suited for foodies and wine enthusiasts who want a relaxed, all-encompassing experience.
Bottom line: an excellent choice for those who want to combine scenic views, delicious regional foods, and manageable riding, all in a half-day.
4. Adelaide City to Sea Bike Tour
At number 4, the Adelaide City to Sea Bike Tour offers a well-rounded 4-hour exploration from the city center to Henley Beach. This tour covers less-traveled parts of Adelaide, including the River Torrens Linear Trail and the coastal boardwalk. Riding at a relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy brunch at Henley Beach and then continue along the River Torrens, soaking in the river’s peaceful surroundings.
The route’s highlight is the combination of urban and coastal scenery, making it appealing for travelers who want a taste of both. Reviewers note the easy riding and engaging commentary, often mentioning how it’s a great way to see parts of Adelaide not on the usual tourist trail. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, especially those comfortable on a reliable, comfortable bike.
Bottom line: ideal for visitors wanting a half-day, casual ride that combines city sights, riverside parks, and beachside relaxation.
5. Adelaide: HandleBar Bike Tour with Pub Stops & Dinner Option
Number 5 is the HandleBar Bike Tour, a lively 2-hour pub crawl on a special 16-person bike. This tour is less about scenic landscapes and more about socializing, pub-hopping, and enjoying local beverages. You can choose to include dinner at La Trattoria, with up to 15% off, making it a great option for an evening out.
The tour allows you to create your playlist, adding a fun, personalized touch. Reviewers mention the friendly atmosphere and the chance to meet other travelers, making this perfect for those looking for a relaxed, social experience. The group size keeps it intimate enough for conversation but lively enough for fun.
Bottom line: perfect for groups, friends, or solo travelers who want a social night of cycling, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
6. McLaren Vale Shiraz Trail Cycling Tour from Adelaide
Ranking sixth, this full-day guided tour explores vineyards around McLaren Vale on easy, mostly flat trails. The tour includes a guided ride along the Shiraz Trail, tastings at Wirra Wirra Vineyards, and a chance to visit the Willunga Farmers Market if it’s Saturday. The gourmet lunch and wines are part of the package, making it an excellent value for food and wine lovers.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on hidden gems and local food. The all-day format suits those with a full day to spare and an interest in authentic wine country experiences. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and the quality of the wine tastings, which are considered generous.
Bottom line: a comprehensive, leisurely day in wine country, suitable for those who want to combine cycling with tastings and local food.
7. Mclaren Vale Hills Vines and Wines Bike Tour from Adelaide
At number 7, this one-day tour offers a scenic ride through the hills and vineyards of McLaren Vale. The itinerary includes multiple winery visits, a local platter for lunch, and the flexibility to customize your experience. It’s great for travelers who want a tailored day on bikes, sampling top wines while enjoying the landscape.
While smaller in reviews, the personalized approach and focus on top wineries in the region make it appealing for serious wine lovers. The tour is best suited for those with moderate biking confidence, as the hills can be challenging for beginners.
Bottom line: a flexible, immersive wine touring experience perfect for those who want to control their day while exploring.
8. Adelaide: City to Sea, Bike and Kayak Safari
Number 8 offers a full-day bike and kayak combo that takes you from the city to the coast. It includes cycling along scenic coastal trails and paddling in the Dolphin Sanctuary. This tour appeals to adventure-minded travelers interested in multiple outdoor activities, combining cycling with kayaking.
The highlight is the chance to see dolphins, and learn about the mangrove forest. It’s ideal for active travelers who want variety and don’t mind a full day outdoors. With no reviews yet, it’s best suited for those comfortable with water and land adventures.
Bottom line: a dynamic, full-day outdoor experience that blends land and sea, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
$290 per person
9. Adelaide: Electric Bike City Tour or Hire Only
Rounding out the list, the Electric Bike City Tour provides a flexible, 3-hour guided ride or bike hire option. It’s perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace, with the scenic Linear Park Trail and Botanic Gardens as highlights.
The electric assist makes it easier to cover more ground, especially in hilly areas or for less experienced riders. Reviewers highlight the ease of use and scenic routes, making it a popular choice for casual sightseers and families.
Bottom line: an accessible way to enjoy Adelaide’s key sights without breaking a sweat, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
$125 per person
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour in Adelaide
When deciding which tour fits best, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For wine lovers willing to spend the day exploring vineyards, the McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike or the Shiraz Trail Cycling Tour are top picks. If you prefer a relaxed city experience, the City to Sea Bike Tour offers a mix of urban and coastal scenery. For a lively social outing, the HandleBar Pub Tour combines cycling with pub stops and optional dinner, ideal for groups.
Think about your biking experience—e-bikes like those in the Hahndorf tour or City Bike Tour make hills easier and extend your range. For outdoor adventure, the Mount Lofty Descent offers a bit of thrill and wildlife spotting, while the full-day wine and food tours deliver both scenic rides and culinary delights.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring and early summer), to secure your preferred date. Many tours include transport from Adelaide, simplifying logistics, so choose based on how much time you want to spend and what kind of experience appeals most.
Final Thoughts
From scenic rides through vineyards to energetic city-to-sea adventures, Adelaide offers bike tours for all interests and skill levels. If you’re after a relaxing afternoon with wine and food, the McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike or Hahndorf E-Bike Tour are excellent options. For those craving a more active, wildlife-filled experience, the Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour is hard to beat. For a lively, social night out, the HandleBar Pub Tour hits the spot.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you get a spot on these popular tours. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to see Adelaide in a whole new way—on two wheels.