Capital: Canberra Currency: Australian Dollar Population: 20.4 million Food: Steak, BBQ Drink: Wine and beer

Australia isn’t just a country, it’s an entire continent!

To cycle Australia in its entirety would require at least a year at a quick pace. Deserts, thousands of miles of ocean coastline, world class vineyards and much, much more are contained within its borders.

Any cyclist heading for Australia will have to carefully consider the seasons.

January and February mark summer in the southern hemisphere and temperatures can easily surpass 40°C in many places. January and February are also peak holiday season so campsites and flights will be packed.

The north has a tropical flavour with high humidity, wet and dry seasons, while the centre is desert territory and the south is more temperate. Winter temperatures are relatively mild compared to Europe or North America and snow is uncommon.

With so much territory to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to focus your efforts. In the summer, it can be refreshing to cycle in relatively cool Tasmania, while in the winter you’ll probably want to stick to warmer areas. September through April is a nice time to pedal around Western Australia.

Regardless of where you go, you’ll need to get a visa for Australia before you travel.