Part 4! Korumburra to Leongatha. 15 kms of utter loveliness, history and discovery.

In this part, I ride possibly the most beautiful section of Rail Trail in the world. OK, maybe I'm over cooking it, but it really is breathtaking. If you've only ever driven from Korumburra to Leongatha, or visa versa, this section is a revelation. The 12 surveyors who took 2 years to map out this route, battling impenetrable forest, 300 years old trees, 100 metres or more high, decided that following the Coalition Creek was the way to go. What you're greeted with when you ride this section is a long, beautiful valley that can only be seen and experienced on the Rail Trail. It's not visible from the road and there are no roads that run through the valley. So from Korumburra to Ruby, it's a gentle roll down the valley, with impossibly gorgeous green hills and gorges either side. This part has it all. Forgotten stations, lost camps, stories of sculduggery and multiple mishaps on my behalf. It's the perfect day ride. 15kms between Korumburra and Leongatha, 30 kms return. Both towns are just brilliant. I highly recommend, if you do ride it, to spend some time rolling around each town, checking out the architecture, history, grabbing a bite to each at the many very cool cafes and meeting absolutely lovely locals. Special thanks to Korumburra District Historical Society and Marion and Lyn from the Leongatha Historical Society who helped so much with this part (and Part and 5 for that matter) Volunteers who LOVE their region and helped me with such kindness. Definitely go to Coal Creek in Korumburra to step back in time to the coal mining era, and in Leongatha, the Historical Society has a cracking museum, which I could spend half a day in easily. Hope you enjoy Part 4! #greatsouthernrailtrail #southgippsland #visitvictoria #railhistory #bikepackingadventure #cycling #train