Betlem Hermitage Loop

Distance

174.8 km

Elevation gain

1,837 m

The longest and toughest day on the list, reaching the remote Betlem hermitage in the northeast. Nearly 175km with close to 1900m of climbing, this is a route for riders who want a genuine all-day effort. The road out to Betlem is the prize — quiet, exposed and dramatic, dead-ending at the hermitage above the bay. Getting there means a long traverse across the island first, so manage your effort and don't burn matches early. The northeast is sparsely served, so carry food and fill bottles at every chance before the final spur. Aim for spring or autumn and start at first light — you'll want the daylight margin and cooler hours for a ride this long.