Nicola Rutzou
The NSW Southern Highlands played host to over 2,500 cyclists over the weekend for the Bowral Classic Cycling Gran Fondo, celebrating its ninth year.
Perfect Spring weather welcomed the riders to the start line in Bowral’s Bong Bong Street with local MP, the Member for Wollondilly, Judy Hannan, firing the start gun at 6.30 am.
The first group out on the road was the Highlanders, an elite group of 100 riders who completed the 150km Maxi Classic course. Even though this event is not a race, this first group rode with vehicles in front and back for safety.
Participants travelled from across Australia and internationally to participate. Riders from several countries, including Singapore, New Zealand, the United States of America, the Netherlands and Switzerland, enjoyed the stunning Southern Highlands scenery and local hospitality.
Cyclists chose one of three road cycling courses ranging from 85km to 150km. All courses are designed to highlight the best of the region’s rolling hills and breathtaking views, with riders passing through the quaint country towns of Berrima, Moss Vale, Bundanoon, Fitzroy Falls, Robertson and Glenquarry.
The event village was a popular place to dwell after the ride. Riders and visitors enjoyed live music, a selection of local bars, food trucks, children’s activities, and cycling exhibitor stalls.
With 85 riders in town for the weekend, Sydney-based cycling group Pastries.cc rode the 120km and 150km in several organised groups. The groups of around 15 to 20 riders stayed together and regrouped on the hills.
Rider leaders Maureen Laurent and Olivia Wilson said the Pastries riders enjoyed a weekend in Bowral. Olivia said she enjoyed, “A house full of cyclists, [who enjoyed a] big carb load the night before, [and would now] explore the area for the rest of the day.”
Rob from Sydney cycling club LACC said of the ride on Sunday, “It was very tough, but exhilarating actually. I’m glad it’s over, but it was great fun.”
The Bowral Classic continues to bring significant economic benefits to the Southern Highlands region. Once again in 2025, accommodation in the region was close to capacity and local businesses such as wineries, restaurants, bars, pubs and shops were filled with visitors.
The Bowral Classic is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, its tourism and major events agency.
Nicola Rutzou – a long-time contributor and, most recently, the editor of Bicycling Australia. Nicola is a keen Sydney-based road cyclist who writes reviews, news, and destination pieces, as well as the weekly e-newsletter for BA online.
