Coffee and cycling go hand-in-hand, so before you pedal the region, we’ve compiled our favourite coffee haunts that serve as the perfect spot to stop and recharge during your ride.
Geelong
Gateway to the Bellarine, and second largest city in the state, Geelong’s waterfront and urban precinct is home to some great hole-in-the-wall coffee joints, including shipping container turned café, interlude.geelong, which is the perfect stop-off for a fruity breakfast, loaded toastie or strong brew.
Head to Paddock Bakery in the Federal Mills for a taste of their famous wood-fired sourdough, crème brulee donuts and mouth-watering pastries, or to King of the Castle on Pakington Street for a morning coffee enjoyed in the sunshine or a cheeky vegan treat.
Grab a barista board from the coffee experts, Constant Coffee, and let the boutique coffee roaster take your tastebuds on a journey through single-origin gems to masterfully blended options. Finally, start your morning with a caffeine hit and spot of brekkie at Pavillion, as you soak up the views of Eastern Beach and the promenade.
Barwon Heads & Ocean Grove
Relax by the mouth of the Barwon River at Annie’s Provedore with a hearty breakfast and a spot of shopping, with an on-site grocery store packed full of local produce, a fromagerie and even a wonderful range of succulent red and crisp white wines. While you’re waiting for racegoers to power through the area, take a dip in the river, head out on a standup paddleboard or lace up your walking shoes and hike Barwon Bluff for stunning views of the Bay.
Looking for the perfect spot to watch the race while ensuring your coffee cravings are properly satiated? Look no further than Barwon Ebb & Flow, open for breakfast and lunch from 7am with incredible cakes and a juice and smoothie bar on-site. See the race fly past from inside the rustic café or watch from the street with a takeaway coffee in-hand.
Further down the coast, retro vibes and good times await at Garage in Ocean Grove. The converted old-school servo has been retrofitted to create a buzzing atmosphere serving St ALi coffee, tasty food and playful cocktails.
Torquay & Lorne
Your search for the perfect aroma, finest blend, and most delicious tasting coffee is over – small batch roastery in Torquay, Surf Coast Coffee Roasters is the ultimate coffee stop on race day. Also in Torquay, The Salty Dog Café’s beach kiosk serves fresh brews, smoothies and breakfast – the best part is your furry bestie is also welcome.
In nearby Lorne, where the bush meets the ocean, enjoy your morning feed along the mouth of the Erskine River at the Swing Bridge Café and Boathouse. Got some time to kill? Hire a paddle boat and spend some time on the water or relax on the estuary beach.