With rolling hills, scenic country roads, forest trails, local art and craft and plenty of country-town charm, Balingup is a great place to base yourself as the Southern Forests & Valleys gears up for the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships.
Join the community celebrations on two wheels, settle in to watch the world’s best gravel riders compete, then make some time to explore Balingup, nearby Donnybrook and the surrounding area.
RIDE
Join the Balingup Rainbow Ride
Get on your bike and join the FREE Rainbow Ride in Balingup on Sunday 4 October as the region gets ready to welcome the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships.
The relaxed 15 km community ride is all about getting out on two wheels and being part of the excitement, with plenty happening back at the Event Village too. Kids can enjoy bike activities, games and face painting, with food and more to enjoy throughout the morning.
Bring your own bike and helmet and come along for a morning of cycling and community fun.
Register here:
WATCH
Watch the UCI Gravel World Championships
The 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships are coming to Nannup on 10–11 October, with the racing available to watch on SBS On Demand. The Elite Women race on Saturday 10 October, while the Elite Men race on Sunday 11 October.
All championship races start from 10am AWST, with staggered starts across the different categories.
If you’re staying around Balingup, you can also watch the action at local establishments showing the coverage:
Check the individual venue details before heading out, as viewing arrangements and opening times may vary.
EXPLORE
There’s plenty to discover once you’ve finished riding or watching the racing. From forest trails and heritage walks to local art, scenic drives and historic attractions, make some time to explore Balingup and nearby Donnybrook.
Golden Valley Tree Park
Wander through Golden Valley Tree Park, a beautiful collection of trees and gardens set among the rolling hills of Balingup. Explore the walking trails and discover a changing landscape throughout the seasons.
Balingup Heritage Walk Trail
Step back in time on the Balingup Heritage Walk Trail, exploring the town and learning more about the people, places and stories that have shaped Balingup.
Villages in the Valley Road Trip
Take a scenic drive through the small villages and communities of the Blackwood Valley, discovering local attractions, historic buildings, galleries, cafés and country landscapes along the way.
Bibbulmun Track
Walk a section of the famous Bibbulmun Track as it passes through the Balingup area, with forest trails, hills and changing landscapes providing a chance to explore the region on foot.
Discover Balingup’s Art & Craft
Discover the local art and craft scene by visiting Balingup’s artisan and craft galleries. Browse handmade products and works created by local artists while exploring the village and surrounding area.
Birdwood Park Avenue of Honour
Visit the Birdwood Park Avenue of Honour and discover this significant local memorial, commemorating those from the district who served in the First World War.
Blackwood River Tourist Drive
Take a scenic drive through the Blackwood Valley along the Blackwood River Tourist Drive, connecting picturesque towns, forests, farmland and riverside landscapes.
Racecourse Flora Reserve
Explore Racecourse Flora Reserve and discover the native vegetation and wildflowers of the Balingup area, with seasonal displays adding colour to the surrounding bushland.
With cycling, championship racing, scenic drives, forest trails, local art and plenty of country-town charm, Balingup is a great place to experience the UCI Gravel World Championships and discover more of the Southern Forests & Valleys.
Take a Trip to Donnybrook
Preston River Loop
Head to nearby Donnybrook and take a leisurely walk along the Preston River Loop, following the river through lush surroundings and enjoying the peaceful setting.
Apple Fun Park
Make a stop at Donnybrook’s Apple Fun Park, a free family-friendly playground in the heart of town, with plenty of space for children to play and explore.
Explore Donnybrook’s Local Produce
Discover Donnybrook’s agricultural heritage and local produce, with seasonal orchard fruit, farm-gate offerings, cafés and other food experiences to enjoy around town.
From community cycling and world championship racing to forest trails, scenic drives, local art, country produce and family adventures, there are plenty of reasons to stay a little longer and discover Balingup, Donnybrook and the Blackwood Valley.
Ride. Watch. Explore Balingup.