Tour Down Under

Our destination today is the iconic Corkscrew climb (not used in this year’s TDU). Our route takes us through the sweeping and undulating Adelaide Hills warming up the legs to tackle the switchbacks of the Corkscrew. On the return to our hotel we’ll stop to enjoy the coffee culture in one of the small towns surrounding the city. In the evening we will have dinner in the hotel.

Today’s ride takes us to Birdwood on undulating roads past apple orchards and farming country via Mount Torrens to view the race as it passes us twice. We’ll ride back along leafy back roads via Rocking Horse Creek and Gumeracha. If we have time we’ll stop at a typical Aussie pub for a cool drink. In the evening you can enjoy the TDU Village.

The race starts and finishes in Tanunda. We’ll head out along quiet backroads that take us up the stunning Gorge Road. Tanunda is fantastic on race day and we’ll watch the start, grab lunch, see one pass-by and then ride up Menglers Hill to watch another loop. After watching the finish we’ll transfer back to Adelaide, or, if you’re up for some extra mileage, ride back through the vineyards and national parks to Adelaide. Tonight we will have a team dinner.

Today we head to Hahndorf via the iconic Norton Summit. The Adelaide hills we ride through feature some of the best cycling in the state. This German town is famous for Schnitzel and we’ll find a typical cafe to cheer the cyclists from. We will descend back to our hotel along River Road and through the leafy Ugale valley. Enjoy another evening in the village or dinner on your own in Adelaide.

After breakfast we will head to the start in Glenelg. Instead of heading directly to the start we’ll climb the highest mountain in the Adelaide Hills: Mt Lofty. After watching the pros roll away we will return through the Adelaide Hills to watch the race from the village. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a team dinner in Adelaide city.

The day we’ve been anticipating. The pilgrimage to Willunga Hill takes us through South Australia’s famous McLaren Vale wineries. We’ll stop to watch the start of the race and then hop on our bikes to Willunga to refuel and watch a pass before heading up the hill to view the iconic climb. Depending on the heat we have two options for our return: You can choose to come back in the van or ride back. The pros ride these routes back, so the chance to hang with them is a bonus. Head to the village, or take it easy in the evening.

Today will be a “Fair Dinkum” surprise as our guides will take you on a special farewell ride. You’ll be back in time to pack your bikes before going to watch the start of the final crit. Today the race takes place around the streets of Adelaide so you can choose a few points and watch the podium at 3pm.

Unfortunately, your trip to the Tour Down Under has come to an end.