Overview

Welcome to Adelaide, Australia, a place where history and natural beauty unite. The Adelaide Hills, graced by the Peramangk and Kaurna people, cradle a world of exquisite wineries. Today, you'll become acquainted with your group and guides, familiarize yourself and fit your Trek Domane bike with SRAM AXS electronic shifting, and warm up on a short, self-guided ride around the local villages of the Adelaide Hills to spin out your travels. Alternatively, you can opt to check in to your hotel room then meet for dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants. We'll gather as a group and share some stories over a delicious meal.

Overview

Today we will pedal through Hahndorf, a quaint village with German roots. Amidst leafy streets, you'll discover a world of specialty pubs, galleries, and renowned handicrafts, all adorned with a touch of German flair. Your guides will lead you out of town today as we ride north to Gumeracha, a name drawn from Aboriginal origins, meaning "fine waterhole." Here, a connection to the land's history runs deep, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry that defines this region. After a quick lunch, you’ll get the opportunity to test your legs on a few moderate climbs taking us up to the Forest Range Lookout, before a downhill run back to Hahndorf where you'll have the opportunity to dine on your own.

Overview

Today is the Queen Stage for the week, Willunga Hill. This morning, you’ll chart a course towards the illustrious Old Willunga Hill, a legendary ascent entrenched in South Australia's cycling heritage, making an annual appearance in the Tour Down Under. On your way, discover the captivating McLaren Vale, as you navigate through one of Australia's most esteemed and time-honored wine landscapes. Take on the nearly two-mile (three-kilometer) climb, that challenges you with an average gradient of 7.4%, a feat achieved by the celebrated pro rider, Richie Porte, who conquered it in an impressive six minutes and 34 seconds. Along the way today, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and get back in time to shower before we regroup for dinner and chat about the highlights from today’s ride. This is a quintessential ride camp kind of day!

Overview

Today is your day to discover the backroads of Adelaide on your own or with your new riding friends. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you'll have the opportunity to ride southeast to the historic town of Strathalbyn. Situated within the Fleurieu Peninsula region, this area is known for its scenic landscapes and abundance of cycling routes. Pedal through the town's charming architecture along the undulating terrain, and picturesque countryside. Or choose to take a rest day trip to the Langhorne Creek wine region. There will be new guests joining you today, and others departing. You have the opportunity to discover a new gem, tackle a ride you experienced in the days prior, or explore the streets of Hahndorf. Tonight, you and your fellow riders will get together again with the chance to meet your group’s latest arrivals and share stories with old and new friends at one of Hahndorf’s favourite dining spots.

Overview

Today's route, though not the Queen stage, is arguably the guide’s favorite ride of the week. You’ll tackle the notable Corkscrew climb, a challenging 2.2 miles (3.6 kilometers) at an average of 8.6%. Before hitting “The Corkscrew,” though, there is a spectacular ten-mile (16 kilometer) journey along Gorge Road, a scenic winding road that snakes along a gorge to the base of the Corkscrew climb. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, and a variety of birds as we navigate our way through this stunning Australian outback setting. Following a quick bite to eat at the top of the climb, we’ll descend into Adelaide before a steady four-mile (seven-kilometer) climb up Norton Summit Road to begin our route back to Hanhdorf to finish today. This afternoon, put your feet up and rest before another evening for you to explore Hahndorf for dinner, on your own or with friends.

Overview

The wine country around Adelaide boasts a rich history with some of Australia's oldest and most historic wineries, many of which trace their roots back to the late 1800s. Today's journey sets us on a course northward, meandering through these century-old vineyards, where the vines have witnessed generations of winemaking artistry. Our cue to tack south is the well known “Checkers” climb, which leads us toward the charming destination of Mount Torrens, promising scenic beauty and a taste of the region's enduring wine heritage. Whilst the one and a half-miles (2.4 kilometers) at an average of 4.1% may not sound intimidating, ensure you’re ready for the short punch at 15% in the middle that really defines this climb. Tonight, we’ll dine together and toast to a fantastic week of riding amongst vineyards and vistas, shared with an amazing group of friends old and new.

Overview

It’s sadly time to say farewell to your Adelaide cycling trip. Following breakfast, you'll have the chance to take one final ride through Hahndorf, which stands as Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Pedal through its enchanting streets that continue to echo its German legacy, adorned with traditional German architecture, delectable cuisine, and artisan shops that lovingly preserve the town's rich history. You'll then say your goodbyes and take great memories with you as you continue on with your travels.