Perth City Bridges Ride - a picturesque and gentle 10km

Now anyone can get on a bike and ride of around the block. But that is not the ride that inspires everyone. For some, it takes something special to get them going.

The City of Perth from the South Perth foreshore 

If you are ready to load your bike on or in the car, or jump on the train for an enjoyable low key ride with lovely views, this one fits the bill.

It is the lovely ride that covers the Narrows Bridge, The Causeway (including Heirisson Island) and the South Perth and City foreshores.

It is a delightful ride and is only about 10kms. It's all pretty, it's all flat other than riding up onto the Narrows, and if you find that hard you can always walk up that short section. Or you can by pass the Narrows altogether by taking the ferry from just near the Bell Tower across to the South Perth Jetty. Just be aware that the Ferry only takes four bikes at a time.

This ride is all 'on path', with only a few low stress road crossings. One section is the detour around the Elizabeth Quay development. There are two road crossings there and in both cases you can cross safely at the traffic lights. There are two more road crossings on the South Perth side of the Narrows bridge (no lights) but I have never had trouble crossing there.

The Narrows Bridge from the city side

Other than that you cross some drive ways into some South Perth car parks, and one, maybe two driveways on the city side. But that is all. Nothing stressful. All other crossings are via underpasses. The only interruption to your river view is through the Elizabeth Quay development, and the underpasses that lead you over the Narrows Bridge on the city side.

There is plenty of parking at Burswood, on the city side of the Causeway, and along the South Perth foreshore, but check for time limits and parking fees…. we wouldn't want you to spoil your day with a parking fine.

It's probably best to let your parking dictate your starting point unless, of course, you are choosing to access this ride via train, in which case the handy option is the Esplanade Train Station. As you emerge from the train station you can easily see the river, and you can cross safely at traffic lights to reach the river.

There are a few nice playgrounds and picnic spots along the way, several toilet opportunities, plenty of seats to stop and enjoy the view or rest your legs. As well as options for coffee or lunch.

My two favourite are Sassy's on the Swan which is just near the Bell Tower, and Mill Point Book Cafe on Mill Point Road in South Perth.

Sassy's http://www.sassysontheswan.com.au is on the city side, right on the river (Causeway side of the Elizabeth Quay development) and has a lovely outlook. You cycle right past it.

The South Perth Ferry jetty

 Mill Point Book Cafe requires a slight detour up Douglas Ave (very quiet street) to Mill Point Road. The cafe is on the river side of Mill Point Road and is a lovely spot to nestle in their lovely secluded alfresco area, or amongst the books….. for either a coffee or a light meal. http://www.millpointbookcaffe.com.au. If you feel unsure go to google maps and search Mill Point Book Cafe. Once you know where it is its easy to find.

Both these lovely spots are about mid way along their respective sides of the river…. Sassy's on the city side, and Mill Point Book Cafe on the South Perth side. But there are lots of lovely spots just perfect for a 'bring your own' picnic.

The Perth City Bridges Ride is fairly straight forward to follow. If you go wrong you'll soon find your way. Just remember not to ride past either of the bridges and pretty much follow the river along the city and south Perth side and you can't go wrong.

I would advise you to choose a low wind day as the river foreshore gets no protection if it's too gusty or windy, and it's a good idea to take a bike lock for your bike if you plan to stop for a coffee or lunch.

Also, keep an eye out for the black swans just near Douglas Ave on the South Perth side in the little lake, or on the river in that area. It does my heart good every time I see them.

Happy cycling.