Cycle the Munda Biddi Trail: Walpole to Manjimup

Trip Code: PEXF

Why we love it

Ride the scenic Munda Biddi Trail, passing through natural landscapes including forests, woodlands, heathlands, quiet back country roads, rivers and small towns., Explore Western Australia’s wilderness on two wheels as you cycle part of the world’s longest off-road cycling trail., Discover the trail’s diverse mix of challenging terrain, gentle slopes and smooth tracks, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels., Learn about the cultural and historical significance of the Munda Biddi Trail. Translating to “path through the forest’ in Noongar Aboriginal language, this trail has a strong connection to the living indigenous heritage of the region., Cycle in the company of an experienced leader as they share their perspective and knowledge of the area.

Is this trip right for me?

This trip has a full-time support vehicle that will transport the group to and from the track each day as well as move luggage between accommodations. There is also a trip leader that rides with the group each day.

If you want, continue your journey on the Munda Biddi Trail: Munda Biddi – Albany to Walpole (six days).

This trip is operated and run by Inspiration Outdoors, a 100% Intrepid Company. You will be travelling with a mixture of both Inspiration Outdoors customers and Intrepid customers.

Important information

1. To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
2. Accommodation on this trip is twin-share and multi-share (see Accommodation section for a detail description). Single travellers will share a room with other traveller of the same gender. The villa on nights 1, 2, & 3 have shared bathroom facilities.
3. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip, please ensure you bring your own bike helmet.
4. Our support vehicle is used for transportation and emergencies, it does not travel with the group while cycling.
5. This trip has one leader that cycles with the group. There may be times when the leader asks a client to act as a back marker.
6. A single supplement is available for all nights of this trip. The single supplement will ensure your own room but not own bathroom on nights 1, 2, & 3.

What to bring/pack

CYCLING
Packing for a cycling tour isn’t that different from any other adventure, but if you want to be comfortable and warm, here are a few bike-specific requirements and suggestions:

• Main piece of luggage – as space in our support vehicle/transport can be limited we request that you bring only a small bag as your main piece of luggage. We recommend a soft-sided bag

• Helmet – these are compulsory, but if you don’t have your own you can often purchase an approved and well-fitted one at the start of the trip (our leaders can assist you with this). There are some destinations where you are unable to purchase appropriate helmets locally so you will always need to bring your own - please check the 'Important Notes' section to see if this is the case.

• Padded bike shorts

• Quick-dry jerseys – you can get away with a few cotton t-shirts but having a few light and breathable jerseys will make your cycling a lot more comfortable, especially in warmer/humid climates.

• Quick-dry socks

• Cycling gloves / Regular gloves – not essential but recommended as padded cycling gloves will make your riding more comfortable and can help protect you in the case of a fall. Regular gloves for those who may not own cycling gloves to keep hands warm in cold wet weather.

• Rain gear – pack a light poncho in case the weather turns when you’re out on the road.

• Light breathable waterproof/windproof outer layers – especially useful for those early mornings or downhill sections when wind-chill becomes a factor.

• Water bottle – we don't provide bottles, but all our bikes have one bottle holder fitted (and a second one can be fitted if required). Please bring a cycling-specific water bottle as other types will fall out of the holders. A Camelbak will make drinking on-the-go easier.

• Sunglasses – well-fitted sports sunglasses help protect against dust, insects and the sun.

• Day pack – our support vehicle will carry your main piece of luggage, but a day pack for snacks and clothes is a good idea.

• Sunscreen – please bring a high protection factor (e.g. SPF50) sunscreen as long days in the saddle mean long exposure to the sun.

• Shoes – normal sports shoes can be worn on all our trips however you may want to consider a flat shoe with a relatively stiff sole as it makes pedalling a lot more efficient. Regular cyclists are welcome to bring their own cycling-specific shoes however we recommend 'mountain bike' style shoes that have grip on the sole rather than ‘road bike' shoes as you will still be walking around while on the rides (cafe/photo/toilet stops, etc). For safety reasons we require that you wear shoes that completely cover the toes while riding.

• Saddles – Our saddles are standard, unisex models –less experienced cyclists may choose to bring your own gel seat cover for added comfort.

• Pedals – all bikes come with flat pedals. Regular cyclists are welcome to bring their own pedals – our leader will assist in fitting them to your bike.

• Bike Lights - we design our Cycling trips so that you are usually riding during daylight hours so do not include bike lights unless a night ride is specifically planned and included in the itinerary. Should you feel more comfortable riding with 'daytime' flights please bring your own and we will be happy to assist in fitting them to your included bicycle., BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
If you would like to bring your own bike please see the 'Transport' section of your Essential Trip Information., TOOLS/SPARE PARTS TO BRING:
For those bringing their own bikes - we recommend bringing the following tools with you. Rest assured your guides will have a full tool kit, but it's a good idea to have the following items with you in case of trailside breakdowns:
• Multi-tool (preferably with chain breaker)
• Chain links specific to your chain
• Tyre levers
• Small tyre pump
• 1-2 spare tubes (our guides can't realistically carry enough 26", 27.5", and 29" tubes for everyone)
• Any rare parts that might be hard to find locally for your brand of bike, Access to Shops
There will be plenty of access to shops as Albany, Denmark and Walpole all have shops where you will have plenty of opportunities to buy anything you need.

Physical rating

3

PHYSICAL PREPARATION
There are regular rest breaks each day, however it is important to note that you will be riding over multiple and consecutive days in a climate and terrain that may be unfamiliar. While it can be tempting to start out riding as hard and fast as you can (we get it!) we recommend taking it easy on the first few days while your body gets used to the rides and the climate.

As a general rule, the more preparation you can do for this type of trip, the more you will enjoy it. Prepare for the trip by doing aerobic type exercises before travelling - jogging or swimming are some options, though cycling is best. If possible take some extended day rides before travelling, or spend time on exercise bikes in the gym. The more your muscles (and bottom) are prepared for the riding on this trip the more you will be able to enjoy the wonderful countryside and people you meet while riding. Note that an enthusiasm for bike riding and adventure is essential!

It is also important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle, both solo and in a group environment.

CYCLING DISTANCES:
The information listed in the itinerary is a guide to the approximate distances and terrain cycled each day. However, this may vary depending on the physical capabilities of the group, and changes to local conditions. We generally only cycle during daylight hours, so there may be some early morning starts. On the rare occasion we do ride during the evening suitable lights will be provided for you. We take regular rest breaks throughout cycling days.

This tour is designed for the casual cyclist. Ideally you would be comfortable on bike, but not necessarily a mountain bike. If you are a very experienced, fit mountain bike rider the pace of the tour may be a little frustrating to you. We ride steadily, but we certainly don't set any land speed records!
If you are not a regular cyclist at all, but you are active i.e. hikers, play sport, go to the gym, etc. then you will probably find it challenging at times, but still achievable. If this describes you, we definitely recommend getting in some riding beforehand, just to get used to spending long periods on a bike.

Joining your group

Tourist Bus Stop, 37 Beaufort Street near the corner of James Street, Perth, AUSTRALIA

Alternate Joining Point


Joining instructions

The trip pickup will be at 7:45am from the Tourist Bus Stop at 37 Beaufort Street near the corner of James Street. Please make sure you are on time as we will depart Perth right away.

Finishing your trip

Tourist Bus Stop, 37 Beaufort Street near the corner of James Street, Perth, AUSTRALIA

Alternate Finish Point


Meals & dietary information

Breakfasts included: 6

Lunches included: 6

Dinners included: 6

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
Australia eats multi-culturally. Everything from meat pies to ramen, tacos, curries, rice and pasta are part of the national diet. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for in Australia and most restaurants and cafes will have a good selection of vegetarian meals. Gluten and lactose-free diets are also well catered for.

Breakfast comprises of cereal, fruit and toast. Lunch is sometimes prepared and brought to you on the track when we can get vehicle access. On days you are cycling in a remote section guests will pack their lunch in the morning which consists of cold meats and salad with sandwiches, rolls or wraps. Dinner is a 2 course meal, main and dessert. Each day on the track you will enjoy our famous baked cakes/biscuits for morning tea and fresh fruit is always available.
If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know when you book, we are happy to adapt our tasty, nutritious meals to suit a variety of dietary needs.

Climate & seasonal information

The climate on the south coast in Spring and Autumn is normally mild with warm days and cool nights. There is the chance of some hot days and some wet days so please bring appropriate clothing.

In case of emergency

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time.

For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us

In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below:

1300 544 882 or +61 8 6219 5164

Accommodations

On nights 1, 2, & 3 we stay at ‘The Bayside Villas’ which have villas with shared bathroom facilities. Villa 1: 2 bedroom - Room 1 (Twin with 3 singles): Room 2 (Queen). Villa 2: 3 bedroom - Room1 (Queen with ensuite): Room 2 (Twin - very small room): Room 3 (Twin - very small room). Villa 3 & 4: 2 bedroom with loft area Room 1 (Twin): Room 2 (Queen) Loft: can take trundle bed for a guide
On nights 4, 5, & 6 we stay in motel rooms that have their own ensuite.

A single supplement is available for all nights of this trip. The single supplement will ensure your own room but not own bathroom on nights 1, 2, & 3.

Transportation

We use a well serviced and maintained air-conditioned minibus to drive from Perth and back, and to and from the Munda Biddi Track each day. The bikes and luggage will be loaded into a large trailer.

INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you plan on bringing your own bike, the minimum you will need is:
• A mountain bike with front suspension (rear suspension is also good, but not entirely necessary).
• 26, 27.5 or 29 inch rim tyres
• Wide off road tyres. Ideally the tyres will be around the 45-55mm. Anything less than this will be okay for much of the ride, however it will be difficult in the sandy patches. Anything really wide is going to hard going on some of the firmer ground. Knobby tread patterns are required.
• A spare tube or two.
• Chain links specific to your chain

E-BIKE OPTION
An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.

The included bikes on this trip are the SUPERBE S-Urban Gent City Bike. These bikes are an MTB design with a lightweight alloy frame, front suspension, 3x9 speed gearing 44/33/22t cranks x 11/32t cassette), Shimano running gear, hydraulic disc brakes and 29" wheels

The optional e-bikes on this trip are the SUPERBE E-TRAIL Gent E-bikes with an alloy step thru frame, front suspension, Bafang rear hub motor (250w, 36v) with power cut out at 25kph, hydraulic disc brakes, 27.5" wheels, 1x10sp gearing (38t x 12-36t cassette). Our e-bikes come in the following sizes:
FRAME SIZE BODY HEIGHT
XS                   < 163 cm S                     157 - 173 cm M                     167 - 183 cm L                      177 - 190 cm XL                    187 - 196 cm XXL                  > 192 cm
On our tours we can carry a maximum of 6 e-bikes.