The Best Road Bike Rides Around Adelaide
37km / 557m elevation
Iconic Norton Summit Climb
If you’re riding in Adelaide, Norton Summit is a must-do climb. A favourite among local cyclists and pros alike, it offers 6.33 km of continuous climbing with little room for recovery—making it a true test of endurance and pacing.
At the summit, you’ll arrive at the Scenic Hotel, a well-known post-ride stop with some of the best views in South Australia. The ride continues with a bonus loop at the top before making its way back down.
52km / 971m Elevation
Adelaide Hills Classic: Old Freeway to Norton Summit Loo
Starting in the heart of Adelaide at Victoria Square, this iconic route is a must-ride for any cyclist visiting the city.
From the Square, you’ll embark on the Old Freeway climb, a steady ascent to Crafers that serves as a perfect warm-up and offers beautiful views of the Adelaide Hills. Once in Crafers, the ride continues through the quaint and picturesque towns of Uraidla and Ashton, renowned for their lush vineyards and charming countryside.
The highlight of the ride is the descent down the famous Norton Summit Road, a segment celebrated by professional cyclists during the Tour Down Under.
53km / 982m elevation
Adelaide Hills Challenge: Norton Summit & Mount Osmond Loop
After conquering Norton, the ride winds through the beautiful Piccadilly Valley, offering lush vineyard views before reaching Crafers. From here, it’s a fast and flowing descent down the Old Freeway, a well-known training ground for local and pro riders alike.
Next, the route takes a turn up Mount Osmond, rewarding you with one of the most spectacular panoramic views over Adelaide. The descent is technical and fast, featuring a mix of tight corners and open straights before leading you back towards the city via quiet backstreets and Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi, home to South Australia’s premier criterium racing circuit.
50km / 703m
Conquer the Infamous Corkscrew Climb
The Corkscrew Climb is one of Adelaide’s most infamous ascents, known for decisive attacks in the Tour Down Under and brutal gradients that test even the strongest riders. If you’re looking for a short but punchy climb that will push your limits, this route is for you.
Once at the top, your effort is rewarded with one of Adelaide’s most exhilarating descents—Montacute Road. With its sweeping turns, smooth surface, and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect way to unwind after such an intense effort.
This route is a must for riders looking to test themselves on one of the hardest short climbs in Australia while experiencing some of the best scenery the Adelaide Hills have to offer.
56km / 90m Elevation
The “Beachie” Ride: Adelaide’s Coastal Classic
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic ride along Adelaide’s stunning coastline, the Beachie Ride is the perfect choice. This flat, out-and-back route takes you west of the city to explore some of Adelaide’s most popular beachside suburbs, making it ideal for a recovery spin or an easy cruising day away from the hills.
76km / 1400m elevation
Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf Loop: A Ride Through History and Hills
Starting from Victoria Square, the heart of Adelaide and home to the Tour Down Under Village, this ride takes you on a scenic adventure through the Adelaide Hills, including the historic German settlement of Hahndorf.
From Stirling, the route winds through Echunga, a quiet countryside town, before reaching Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. This picturesque town is a perfect mid-ride stop, with traditional German bakeries, coffee shops, and historic buildings lining the main street.
After refueling, the return journey loops back through Stirling before a fast and flowing descent back into Adelaide.
115km / 1163m elevation
McLaren Vale & Willunga Hill Classic
This ride takes you on a legendary journey through South Australia’s famed wine region, featuring the iconic Willunga Hill, a climb made famous by the Tour Down Under.
Starting in Adelaide’s CBD, the route heads south towards McLaren Vale, passing through rolling countryside and picturesque vineyards. The roads are smooth, fast, and perfect for endurance riding, making this a popular choice for local cyclists and pros alike.
As you approach Willunga, the real challenge begins—Willunga Hill. This 3 km climb, with an average gradient of 7.4%, has been the battleground for countless professional cyclists at the Tour Down Under’s decisive queen stage. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with stunning views over the Fleurieu Peninsula.
199km / 3130m
Barossa Valley Epic Long Ride
This route takes you on a scenic loop out to the famous Barossa Valley including climbs which give you breathtaking views along the way.
On the way out your ride along a beautiful ridge line with stunning views and through a nature reserve.
On the return the ride takes you up through Adelaide's apple orchards before descending back into town from Norton Summit.
This ride is only for the super fit and someone who loves climbing with over 3000m of ascent and 200km in distance. If you like long endurance rides in the saddle - this one is for you!
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