Tour Down Under for First Timers
Experience Australia’s best cycling as a first timer.
AUSTRALIA BEST CYCLING HOLIDAY
This year, some of our team had the incredible opportunity to attend the Tour Down Under (TDU) 2025 in Adelaide. Our goal? To immerse ourselves in the event, capture the experience as first-timers, and share insights with fellow cycling enthusiasts. Spoiler alert: we had an absolute blast! Here’s a breakdown of our journey—from planning and preparation to the event itself—along with some useful tips to make your own TDU adventure unforgettable.
Start With Planning Our Trip to the Tour Down Under
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Since this was our first time attending the TDU, we had no idea where to start beyond booking our flights and securing accommodation for the 10-day event. From there, our planning was a mix of online research and firsthand advice from experienced riders.
Our Research Process
To get the most out of our trip, we turned to multiple sources:
* TDU Official Website (https://tourdownunder.com.au/) – This provided essential details on race schedules, event locations, the Tour Village, and spectator information.
* Social Media & Online Communities – Platforms like Instagram and Strava Group helped us find local cycling groups and unofficial events.
* Advice from Local Riders – We connected with Brisbane cyclists who had attended TDU before and gathered tips on must-ride routes and hidden gems in Adelaide.
What We Learned
Through our research, we discovered that TDU isn’t just about watching professional races—it’s a full cycling festival! Here are some key highlights:
* Official TDU Events – This includes pro races, official event rides, the vibrant Tour Village and the activities during the tour.
* Unofficial Rides & Side Events – Major cycling brands like Rapha, MAAP, Pedla, and Wondercross host their own rides and social gatherings.
* Top Cycling Routes Around Adelaide – The city and surrounding areas offer breathtaking routes, including the famous climbs of Willunga Hill, Norton Summit, Mt lofty and more.
ESSENTIALS AT THE TOUR
Preparing for the Tour Down Under: What You Need to Know
Based on our experience both on and off the bike at the Tour Down Under (TDU), we’ve put together a list of essential items to ensure you’re fully prepared for the event.
Cycling Essentials
Bike – Road, gravel, or MTB (depending on your planned rides).
- Bike Bag – For safe transportation.
- Helmet – A must-have for safety.
- Cycling Shoes – Clip-in for better performance.
- Jersey & Bib Shorts – Stay comfortable on long rides.
- Cycling Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the sun and debris.
- Socks – Good quality, breathable socks.
- Bidon (Water Bottle) – Preferably 1L for longer rides.
- Bike Computer – Not always needed, but good to have.
- Bike Lights – Essential for early morning or late evening rides.
- Spares – Tubes, sealant, tire levers, and extra batteries.
- Tools – Mini-tool set and a torque wrench for seat post, pedals, and handlebars.
- Sunscreen – The Australian sun is no joke—protect your skin!
- Bike Lock – Better be safe than sorry
Non-Cycling Essentials
T-Shirts – Lightweight and breathable.
- Shorts – Perfect for warm weather.
- Hat – Keep the sun off your face.
- Sunglasses – A must for off-the-bike activities too.
- Insulated Water Bottles – Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Sneakers – For walking around the Tour Village and city.
- Pro Tip: Get your bike serviced before the event to avoid mechanical issues on the road!
The Tour Village & Expo: A Must-Visit Spot
The Tour Village is one of the first places you’ll want to check out at TDU. Whether you’re looking for event info, the latest bike tech, or just a place to soak up the atmosphere, this is the heart of the festival.
What Makes It Special?
- New Gear & Tech: Major brands like Cervélo, Merida, and Colnago showcase their latest bikes and innovations.
- Cycling Accessories: Expect top-tier brands like Pirelli, Wahoo, Zwift, 100%, Mavic, Lightweight, and more.
- Meet the Pros: Unlike other expos, you’ll often see pro riders casually walking around!
TOUR VIBES & RIDES
The village isn’t just about gear—it’s also a great social hub. There’s a bar and a massive screen where you can catch live coverage of both the men’s and women’s stages. Plus, they run awesome programs like:
Live Music – Relax and enjoy some tunes.
Movie Nights – Cycling-themed films under the stars.
Pro Interviews – You might even catch a chat with legends like Mark Cavendish!
The Tour Village is more than just an expo—it’s an experience. Whether you’re here for the gear, the atmosphere, or to meet fellow cyclists, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of cycling.
Epic Rides in Adelaide: Our Top Routes
This was our first time exploring Adelaide on two wheels, and to put it simply—it blew our minds. We now understand why so many cyclists rave about riding here. From stunning coastal routes to breathtaking climbs in the Adelaide Hills, this city has it all.
Of course, no place is perfect, and there are pros and cons to every cycling destination (note: we haven’t ridden every route in Adelaide—yet!). But after some unforgettable days on the bike, here are our top three favorite rides:
Flat & Fast: City to the Beach
Type: Flat, easy ride
Route: Adelaide → Henley Beach → Return
Why we love it: This ride is perfect for an easy spin or a recovery day. It takes you straight from the city to the coast, where you can enjoy ocean views, a coffee stop, and a relaxed ride back.
Rolling Hills: Norton Summit & Mt. Lofty
Type: Rolling terrain with moderate climbs
Route: Adelaide → Norton Summit → Mt. Lofty → Return
Why we love it: A must-do for anyone visiting Adelaide. The climb up Norton Summit is smooth and rewarding, followed by the stunning ride up to Mt. Lofty, which offers one of the best viewpoints over the city.
Big Day Out: Hahndorf & Beyond
Type: Long ride, endurance-focused
Route: Adelaide → Hahndorf Village → Various Adelaide Hills loops
Why we love it: This ride takes you deep into the Adelaide Hills, passing through the charming German-style village of Hahndorf—perfect for a mid-ride coffee (or even a post-ride beer).
The Pilgrimage: Willunga Hill
Type: Iconic climb, must-do ride
Route: Adelaide → Willunga Hill
Why we love it: No trip to Adelaide is complete without conquering Willunga Hill, the legendary climb of the Tour Down Under. The atmosphere here during the race is electric, but even on a normal day, it’s an epic climb with smooth roads and stunning scenery.
Why Adelaide is a Cyclist’s Dream
Riding in Adelaide is an absolute blast. Thanks to the city’s size and layout, both the seaside and mountain routes are easily accessible. You can go from a flat coastal cruise to challenging climbs in the hills within the same ride.
One major difference we noticed compared to Brisbane is the gradient of the climbs. Adelaide’s hills are generally more forgiving, with smooth, steady gradients between 4%–7%, making them enjoyable to ride. Some of our favorite climbs include:
-. Willunga Hill – The legendary climb of TDU
-. Norton Summit – A smooth and steady classic
-. Belair Road – A great climb with a scenic descent
-. Lobethal – Beautiful rolling countryside roads
-. Knotts Hill Road – A spicy little challenge!
From the moment you arrive in Adelaide during the Tour Down Under (TDU), you can feel the electric atmosphere of the cycling festival—especially around the Tour Village. Cyclists are everywhere, from amateurs to pros, rolling through the city streets, gearing up for their rides, or just soaking in the vibe.
From early morning till late at night, there’s always something happening. Whether it’s an official TDU event, a local criterium race, or a Provelo showdown, there’s no shortage of action both on and off the bike.
RIDES PLAN
As first-timers, we quickly realized that TDU is packed with activities from morning to night—almost overwhelming in the best way possible. The biggest challenge? Balancing riding with watching the race.
One common issue (that we also faced) is that if you ride to the race location, you’ll often end up waiting for hours just to catch a glimpse of the action. Most stages start around 11 AM, last for 3–4 hours, and finish around 3–4 PM. Then, after a 1–2 hour ride back to the city, it’s already dinnertime—leaving little time to recover before doing it all over again the next day.
Some riders have the fitness to handle this daily, but for those looking for a more balanced experience, here are three smart ways to enjoy both riding and racing:
Option A: Ride Early & Drive to the Race
Do your own ride in the early morning, finishing before lunch.
Rent a car to drive to the key race location and watch the pros.
Enjoy post-race events like happy hours, crit races, or local cycling meetups.
Option B: Join a Supported Group Ride
Ride with groups like Rapha, MAAP, and Pedal, which provide:
On-route nutrition support.
Designated marquee spots at prime viewing locations.
A social atmosphere—ride, watch the race, and enjoy post-ride events.
Option C: Ride to the Race & Back (If You Can Handle It)
If you don’t mind the heat and have solid endurance, ride directly to the race location, wait for the finish, and you might even get the chance to ride back to Adelaide alongside the pros!
More Than Just the Race: The Events That Make TDU Special
One of the things that makes Tour Down Under the best cycling holiday in Australia is the sheer number of social rides, events, and races surrounding it.
-. Rapha, MAAP, & Pedla – Group rides, happy hours, and live podcasts.
-. Wondercross – Gravel rides that explore the unbeaten paths of Adelaide.
-. Norwood Cycling Club
Local crit races where amateur cyclists can compete.
From day one, it’s a packed week of cycling, racing, and social events.
Prefer Riding Solo? No Problem.
If group rides aren’t your thing, exploring Adelaide on your own is just as rewarding. Just keep in mind:
-. Plan your ride properly – Water stops can be scarce in some areas.
-. Time your route well – Road closures for the race can catch you off guard.-
TDU TIPS
Cycling the Tour Down Under: An Unforgettable Adventure for First-Timers
If you’re a cycling enthusiast—or even just someone who enjoys exploring new places—the Tour Down Under (TDU) in Adelaide should be at the top of your list. We had an absolute blast at our first TDU, and we can confidently say it’s hands down the best cycling event in Australia.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the race or just enjoy riding, the cycling routes around Adelaide alone are worth the trip.
But what makes TDU truly special isn’t just the race itself—it’s the whole atmosphere of the event. One of the highlights of our experience was chatting with a pro cyclist about how much freedom the athletes have before and after the race. Imagine sitting next to cycling legend Geraint Thomas enjoying some frozen yogurt, or even bumping into the entire Lidl-Trek team while they grab a coffee. It’s moments like these that make the Tour Down Under unique!
Top Tips for Your TDU Experience
Before you head to Adelaide for the Tour Down Under, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
1. Prepare for the Heat
Adelaide can get pretty hot during the summer, and if you’re coming from Queensland, the dry heat might catch you off guard. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated—especially if you’re planning on riding during the day.
2. Sunscreen is a Must
Don’t forget to pack a pocket-sized sunscreen you can easily carry with you. If you plan to watch the race or ride along the route, you could be out in the sun for 6–8 hours, and reapplying sunscreen is key to avoiding burns.
3. Stay Hydrated—And Be Prepared
Unlike Queensland, finding public water refill stations in Adelaide can be tricky. We recommend bringing a large water bottle (1L or more), and plan your routes to include refill stations along the way.
4. Protect Your Eyes
The sun in Adelaide can be pretty intense, and the glare from the roads can hurt your eyes. Be sure to pack high-quality sunglasses—you don’t want your eyes to end up red and irritated, like ours did when we forgot them!
5. Stay Close to the Action
If you’re looking to soak in the full TDU vibe, stay near the village. You’ll have the chance to spot athletes, VIPs, and maybe even get a selfie with a cycling legend. The atmosphere is electric, and staying close to the action is well worth it.
6. Explore Central Market
Don’t miss out on Adelaide’s Central Market. It’s a foodie’s paradise with fresh seafood, fruits, gourmet treats, and local produce that will fuel you for your next ride or race-watch.
7. Check Out Local Events
For a broader experience, check out local listings like Concrete Playground Adelaide or other event websites to find activities, exhibitions, and unique things to do around the city during the tour.
8. Enjoy the Long Days
You’ll notice the days stay bright much longer than you’re probably used to—until 8 p.m., it’s still light outside! It’s a great chance to enjoy more riding or sightseeing, but also a good idea to keep an eye on the time so you don’t lose track of your plans.
9. Hunt for Autographs
If you’re hoping to meet some of the pro cyclists, bring a marker with you! You’ll have a better chance of getting autographs during the event, especially if you catch them outside of race time.
10. Get Involved in Side Events
The TDU is not just about the main race. There are a ton of fun side events to participate in. Join in for a truly immersive experience—some of these unofficial events are just as exciting as the official races!
11. Pack a Musette Bag
There’s a lot of free swag at the TDU! From merchandise to snacks, a musette (a small cycling bag) is perfect for collecting all the goodies you’ll get during the event.
12. Secure Your Bike Bag
If you’re flying to Adelaide, consider getting an AirTag for your bike bag. Airlines often re-schedule bike bags due to space issues, so this will help you keep track of your gear. Also, arrive early to increase the chances of your bike bag making it onto your flight.
13. Research Challenges & Side Quests
The TDU is full of challenges for cyclists—whether it’s a race or a fun ride. Take some time to research these before you go, and make them your “side quests” during your ride around Adelaide. It’s a fun way to challenge yourself while taking in the sights!
14. Stay Updated on AllTDU Events
The AllTDU website is your one-stop shop for all the info on what’s happening during the Tour Down Under. From race schedules to local activities, it’s the best way to stay in the loop and plan your days.
15. Get a Prime Viewing Spot Early
If you’re a race fan, get to your viewing point early to secure the best spot. The race can get crowded, and a good view of the cyclists is key to soaking up the full experience.
16. Make New Cycling Friends
The TDU is a social event! You’ll meet fellow cyclists from all over the world. Take the opportunity to make some new friends who share your love of cycling.
17. Ride Safe, Ride Smart
Always keep safety in mind. Whether you’re racing, riding to a viewing point, or just enjoying the city, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and ride responsibly.
18. Most Importantly—Enjoy the Ride!
At the end of the day, the Tour Down Under is all about enjoying the sport of cycling and celebrating the community it creates. Soak in the atmosphere, the crowds, the pros, and most importantly—have fun!
Adelaide is a beautiful city to explore, and the TDU brings it to life in a way that no other event can. Whether you’re there for the race, the rides, or the chance to meet cycling icons, it’s an experience you won’t forget. So grab your bike, your sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—it’s time to enjoy one of the best cycling holidays in Australia!
Itinerary
We’ve carefully planned our trip to make the most of the Tour Down Under (TDU), covering both official and non-official events. With the goal to soak up the atmosphere of this incredible cycling festival while getting in some amazing rides. Here’s what we have lined up:
Ride: A relaxed 20-30km flat ride from Adelaide to Henley Beach.
Experience: Explore the Tour Village, check out the expo, and watch the team presentation.
Ride: A challenging 110-120km ride through the Adelaide Hills, featuring the iconic Willunga Hill.
Watch: Catch the action of the Women’s Pro Race.
Ride: A scenic 110km ride covering Norton Summit, Mt. Lofty, and Stirling.
Watch: Another exciting stage of the Women’s Pro Race.
Ride: A light 30km flat spin to the beach.
Meet: Get up close with the pro teams in the Tour Village.
Ride: A fun 60km social ride with fellow cycling fans.
Watch: The Men’s Pro Stage (110km).
Ride: A relaxed 40-60km
ride.
Experience: More time at the Tour Village to soak in the festival atmosphere.
Ride: Participate in the official Epic Ride by TDU (130km).
Watch: Another thrilling Men’s Pro Stage.
Ride: A steady 60km flat ride.
Watch: The Men’s Stage Start at Glenelg.
Ride: A 120km ride to the legendary Willunga Hill.
Watch: One of the most exciting Men’s Pro Stages.
Ride: A casual 30km city ride.
Watch: The Men’s Classic race—an epic way to wrap up the tour!
TDU Epic Ride Highlights
Watch the highlights of Tour Down Under Official Epic Rides. Same route as the Mens pro Uraidla Stage (click the image above)