2014 Santos Tour Down Under Package

For those wanting to be a part of the exciting lead up to the Santos Tour Down Under Race, come a day early to settle in and take in the buzz of a city that is alive with pre-tour excitement.

For those arriving today by plane you will be booked on the Skylink bus and be taken to our hotel. The team presentations with cycling sports announcers Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwin will be held in the evening where the Adelaide City Council Tour Village will kick off the 15th year celebrations. Entry will be FREE and the celebration will be a night not to be missed!

Accommodation tonight is an optional extra. Book early with us for the Adelaide Hilton.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - People's Choice Down Under Classic - Rymill Park, Adelaide (51km)

For those arriving today give us a ring when you arrive at the airport for our pick up service, or if we are unavailable, you will be booked on the Skylink bus and be taken to our hotel. The city will be alive with activity at the Race Tour Village at Victoria Square,opposite the Hilton our booked accommodation where teams, bikes and mechanics are busy preparing for the first day of racing.

Rymill Park, only a short walk from your hotel, is where the People's Choice Classic will begin at 7pm. It's a 51 km circuit race that passes along the city and through its parklands. For those that have chosen the optional 'Club Tour Package' a special viewing platform with refreshments is available or feel free to move among the crowds for some great race viewing.

Accommodation tonight is an optional extra.

NON-RIDER:

Sunday and Monday are perfect for the non-rider to enjoy the atmosphere and be part of the viewing public at the People's Choice Classic and tour village.

Santos Tour Down Under - official rest day.

If you are arriving in Adelaide today give us a ring when you arrive at the airport for our pick up service, or if we are unavailable, you will be booked on the Skylink bus and taken to the Hilton Hotel. Today the pros rest up for tomorrow's official start and the day off gives you a chance to set up your bike and perhaps take it for a leisurely ride down the River Torrens to Henley Beach. Bike mechanical assistance will be available if required throughout your stay with us. We will set up a registration area in the hotel foyer at 4pm, answering your questions and allowing cyclists a place to assemble their bikes. Our mechanics are there to help you get set up for an exciting week of riding.

At 6pm you will meet and greet your new cycling companions and enthusiasts in the hotel lobby before sitting down for a dinner at the hotel restaurant, all part of the AllTrails package. Here we will provide you with additional tour information so that you can really enjoy your week.

NON-RIDER:

Monday is ideal for everyone, riders and non-riders to visit the Tour Village opposite our accommodation at the Hilton or explore Adelaide.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Stage 1 - Prospect to Lobethal (149km)

We begin the day by meeting out front of the hotel for a safety briefing before an approx 50 km bike loop ride out towards the coast that will cover the same home training roads of several of Australia's top cyclists like Stuart O'Grady and Luke Roberts before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Shorter route available if requested.

We leave the bikes at the hotel and bus to Prospect, a suburb neighbouring the city and for the first of the Tour Down Under stage starts. Back in the bus for more racing action we head east to Charleston in the Adelaide Hills to see the action at two of the Jayco Sprints, then jump back in the bus for a short drive to the stage finish in Lobethal, where 5 people will be given the opportunity to access a reserved area next to the commentary podium at the finish line. Access will be alternated for each stage finish over the week giving each AllTrails participant an opportunity to get really close to the action.

Dinner is at your own expense tonight, however we will be providing recommendations for great restaurants only a few minutes from our hotel or a little further afield if you feel like exploring Adelaide.

NON-RIDER:

The riders leave early for a loop ride so they will be back to have breakfast with you and then you can join us for the day as there will be no cycling after the morning.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Stage 2 - Mt Barker to Rostrevor (116.5km)

Today is a great example of why the Santos Tour Down Under is world famous for being spectator friendly. The entire stage passes and loops through the Adelaide hills renowned for its quaint towns, beautiful scenery and, most importantly, spectacular cycling.

We load the bikes after breakfast and drive to Mount Barker for the race start. Watch the pros prepare, casually chatting to their team-mates and competitors, television cameras everywhere in this bright, colourful gathering.

See the start and then ride a shortcut to ride the stage route ahead of the pros as they ride an addition 50 km loop. Ride the 70 km to the finish or shorter distance if requested. Rostrevor will be hosting its inaugural stage finish and will be alive with TDU spectators ready to cheer you on as they wait for the pros.

Catch the finish in Rostrevor or watch the pro-riders as they pass you on route, perhaps at the King of the Mountain, 12km before the finish. At the completion of the ride, pack your bike in the trailer for the drive back to the city or ride the remaining 11 km back to the Hilton Hotel. Tonight you can check out the many great places to eat in downtown Adelaide or attend the Club Tour Dinner at the Tour Village, if you have booked this optional extra.

NON-RIDER:

You can join us in the bus to see the stars, then we will take you to the finish to see the action or perhaps you might want to stay in Adelaide and enjoy a bit of shopping.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Stage 3 - Unley to Stirling (139km)

Today's stage looks to have been designed for the spectator cyclist! There aren't many places in the world where, while riding your bike along a beautiful Pro-Tour stage route, you can leave from your hotel to watch some of the start preparations, the King of the Mountain, both sprints, then ride a little of the route in reverse to see the hydration station before grabbing some lunch along the route and settling in for the finish! Once you reach Stirling after approx 16km you will be at the heart of the race action. Stirling is the start of the 20km laps that the pros will ride 6 times to end this stage. Ride the loop as many times as you like and catch the race roadside as the riders pass you.

Most riders ride back down to Adelaide as many of the pro teams return that way themselves as a post-race cool down so it's a great way to mix it with the best. For those not wanting to return by bike our vehicles will be available to transfer you and your bike back to the Hilton Hotel.

NON-RIDERS:

The riders have a later start so you will be able to join them for breakfast. When they ride to the race start we will hop into the bus and follow them out there. You could enjoy a coffee for which Unley has a great reputation and watch the pro riders as they prepare for another day's racing. Then we will drive up to Stirling, which is one of the Adelaide Hills most popular towns, to catch more of the race action and explore the area's culinary and shopping delights on foot. Return in the bus with our cyclists not wanting to ride back to the Hilton Hotel.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Bupa Stage 4 - Modbury to Tanunda (126.5km)

Bupa Challenge: 127 km, 92 km, 46.5 km

A good breakfast will get you primed for the big day. It's your choice to start at Modbury to ride the entire stage distance of 127km or start at Kersbrook (96km) or Mt Pleasant (46.5km). We will take you and your bike to the start of each category. Those starting from Modbury may ride straight from the Hilton, an additional 16km, if they wish.

Then you are in the hands of the organisers as due to road closures we will have to travel the long route to Tanunda. The course is undulating with a big climb at the start and lots of people cheering you along. Finish before the racers arrive and unwind with a great choice of food, drinks and friends, all sharing their own stories about their own big ride day.

For those cyclists not wanting to take part in the Bupa Challenge, we will transfer you and your bikes to Tanunda where you may enjoy the day cycling around your chosen route - perhaps to a vineyard or two.

We all meet at the right hand side of the finish line half an hour after the finish. Upon returning to the hotel we enjoy a great group dinner.

NON-RIDERS:

Today is the community ride. You may join us in the bus dropping riders off, then it's off to the finish where we will explore the area by bus, maybe visit a winery along the way, then see the exuberant riders come in before the pros.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Jayco Stage 5 - McLaren Vale to Old Willunga Hill (151.5km)

After breakfast we pack the bikes up for a drive out to the Stage 5. Once the pros have left the starting line you have the opportunity to ride the 40km circuit through the vineyards of McLaren Vale and along the esplanade with beautiful cliff top views of the great Southern Ocean (or shorter distance if requested). There is plenty of time to take in the sights and be amongst the race action as the pros race around the circuit three times before the stage route leads up the gruelingly steep Willunga Hill where they will be fighting it out for the King of the Mountain points and the stage finish.

In 2009 Lance Armstrong compared the crowds of this hill with those on the Giro and the Tour de France and things are only getting bigger and better each year as people come from around the globe to see the elite riders of the world split from the peloton as they tackle this famous hill. We recommend you ride the hill and have the enthusiasm of the crowd carry you up to your chosen viewing point. What a day, eh?!

Bus back to Adelaide then it's the night of all nights - The Legends Dinner and Dance! A great night and a highly recommended optional extra where the stars mix it with the public, maybe a photo or two for your mantle.

NON-RIDERS:

Willunga Hill is always interesting and a great place to visit. Come with us in the bus, then wander around seeing the town and taste the McLaren Vale wines.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Route - Stage 6 - Elder Park, Adelaide (90km)

Today you can sleep in and take it easy or join us for a 30km ride (or shorter distance if requested) along today's route and along the beach road before returning for breakfast and having some time to yourself. Maybe visit Race Headquarters in Victoria Square and give a few tips to the Aussie contenders. We watch the final day race from our prime trackside position in Adelaide, which includes a delicious buffet lunch, bar and large plasma TV screens showing the race live, so you do not miss a moment of the action. The atmosphere is electric as crowds gather and cheer on our cycling heroes for the final sprint finish. Club Tour participants will have their own private viewing area available to them.

Then it is time to farewell your new-found friends and reflect on the days of cycling, race action and fond memories - what a week of wonder.

NON-RIDERS:

The last day is very friendly for non-riders and riders. Watch the race with us over lunch or set your own pace. Whatever you do, Adelaide and your hotel are as one - it's all there to enjoy and savour the memories.

The Skylink Airport bus does regular runs to the airport which you can book at hotel reception, or stay at the hotel for another night (optional extra). Thanks for sharing the good times with AllTrails and Cycling Inform.

Come on Aussie, come on!

Feel free to contact us at any time through our website ‘Contact Us’ page, phone or email. We love what we do and want to get you on the best bike ride for you. Speak to us about what's on your mind and we'll help you make your decision.

It couldn't be better - deluxe plus rooms at the best location. The Hilton Adelaide Hotel is the official host hotel where the world's cycling stars, media and the cycling fraternity will converge and transform the Hilton Adelaide into the cycling centre of Australia. Beautifully located overlooking Victoria Square and the Adelaide City Council Tour Village, Hilton Adelaide is at the heart of the city's business, entertainment, shopping and dining precincts and right next door to the vibrant Adelaide Central Market.

On the online entry form you can nominate any travelling companions that you would like to share a room with and/or be accommodated close to so that couples or friends can be roomed together. This can be in a double bed or in twin beds. If you are travelling alone like many of our riders, you can choose to 'twin share' where single riders are paired with other riders of the same gender. Single Supplement is also available for those that would like their own room for the whole trip.

If you are a chronic snorer or have other habits that may affect your fellow room-mates we suggest booking your own room (single supplement cost). This is not just a courtesy to your fellow travelling companions, but will also give you the space & privacy you need to enjoy your sleep after a long day on the bike.

Not a problem! You’ll find other like-minded cycling companions taking part in our rides. If you’re a solo traveller we will pair you with other solo travellers of the same gender in twin share accommodation or you can opt for Single Supplement (additional cost) to receive a room of your own.

Always a big part of any cycling holiday! Check tour details for meal inclusions on your ride. Our emphasis is on fresh food and balanced diet with plenty of carbohydrates, proteins, fruit and vegies catering for a cycling holiday. We successfully cater to most dietary requirements, however feel free to contact us with any questions. Most meals are included as part of our tours, however you may be required to purchase some meals. See the 'Day to Day' tab for more details, or click the 'Generate Itinerary' button.

A bike mechanic will be part of our crew and is there to help you with minor adjustments and servicing of your bike and will have a good stand pump for different valves. We also have David Heatley of Cycling Inform who as a professional cycling coach can help you with small adjustments to your bike set-up so that you can get the best out of your machine. We will have limited parts available for replacement which will be charged at shop prices. Labour is free for the first fifteen minutes, there after costs may be incurred at the mechanic's discretion. Cyclists with rare or different bikes are asked to contact us at AllTrails and advise our mechanic.

A comfortable racing bike, road bike or touring bike with a good seat and road tires with slick or near-slick tread. A hybrid or mountain bike is also possible if you are comfortable riding the daily distances and average speed of the tour (ask us for the 'Training Tips' document for this ride).

Fly into Adelaide Airport and catch a taxi or the Skylink Shuttle or call us for a pick up to the Adelaide Hilton. If you are planning to drive, see parking costs & locations FAQ.

If you are planning to drive to Adelaide, here are some options for parking at the Tour Down Under:

1. Valet parking at the Hilton $34/night. They will get your car whenever you need it during the week.

2. Hilton ‘self-park’. $18/day. Claim your 24 hour voucher from reception as you check in at the Hilton. NOTE: this voucher is valid for 24 hours only so you will need to walk to uPark Central Market EACH day (150 metres), to collect your car, pay for your overnight use, drive out of the building, then drive back into the building to start your next 24 hour block. Enquire at Hilton reception for your daily car park vouchers.

3. Standard rates at uPark Central Market (150 metres from Hilton) Daily Rate $28 ($6 on Sunday). You can leave your car for the entire week – do not need to collect every day. http://upark.com.au/central-market

4. uPark Topham Mall (550 metres from Hilton) Daily Rate $28 ($6 on Saturday & Sunday). You can leave your car for the entire week – do not need to collect every day. http://upark.com.au/topham

5. Park your car in a neighbouring suburb with residential free parking areas (eg. Goodwood), then catch the tram back into the city.

Our Tour Down Under packages cater for both riders and non-riders so bring your partner to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the week. See our 'Day to Day' tab for each day's opportunities for non-riders.

Airfares or other transportation to Adelaide, personal items purchased during the tour, some meals are not included allowing you the opportunity to explore the regional cuisine.

Check the ‘Pricing’ tab for our ‘optional extras' including accommodation before and after the tour, Tour Down Under Legends Dinner, Tour Down Under Club Tour, Bupa Challenge Tour.

If you plan to participate in all of the cycling you will need to be a reasonably keen cyclist in good health and physical condition, however not necessarily fast, but consistent. Build your kilometre total distance in training to gradually attain about 100 km a day for 2 days straight. Shorter routes will be available for those that do not want to ride the full distance. A training outline to get the most out of your ride will be sent to you in your pre-tour info pack. We will also always have support vehicles to transfer you and your bike in situations where you cannot complete a particular section of the ride for any reason.

We suggest you carry a spare tube, a full water bottle and your own personal goods such as camera, wallet and perhaps rain gear if it’s threatening. We transport your luggage, day packs, food & extra water. A detailed list of what is required and provided will be sent to you in your pre-tour info pack.

Yes, you can rent a bike. We often have overseas riders coming to Australia, or interstate riders that would rather not take their bike around Australia on a plane. We will be able to help you out with organising bike hire through our local contacts near our office in Melbourne, or in Adelaide. When you make your booking just let us know that you would also like to hire a bike and we will get the ball rolling for you and put you in touch with the right people. You can also bring your own seat and/or pedals to give you that little bit of 'home comfort'.

We have a great safety record, but accidents can happen. We have comprehensive First-Aid Kits with trained 1st aiders as tour guides and drivers, mobiles and a satellite phone for emergency calls and the locality of hospitals in the areas that we ride through. We also have vehicles that can take anyone injured or sick for further treatment.

Absolutely. We will be happy to give you the names and telephone numbers of people who have participated in the ride or a similar ride that you are considering. Where possible we will provide you with the details of someone within your city or state. Another good place to look is our ‘Testimonials’ page.

Welcome! Traditionally most of the clientele on our rides have been from Australia or New Zealand, but we also have had many riders from USA and UK/Europe. You just need to make sure that your passport and visas are in order and check the cost of transferring your bike to Australia, or rent one here.

We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for all our Australian rides at the time of deposit and ensure that it includes coverage for cancellation fees if for some reason you are not able to travel. Should you wish to change your booking with AllTrails to a different tour, there will be a very reasonable service charge. We try to keep this figure as low as possible to allow flexibility where we can as we want to make sure that you get on the right tour for you. For cancellation and refund policies for your tour click the ‘Book Your Place Today’ button on the relevant tour page of our website and scroll down for Conditions of Contract.

Travel Insurance for lost deposits and cancellations:

www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au/

www.travelinsurancecover.com.au/

Lost deposits: We very strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for your trip. This should include cover for cancellation fees, lost deposits, and stolen or lost luggage (including your bike). We cannot emphasise enough how important this is. There are many unforseen reasons why cyclists may need to withdraw from a ride - injury, health, weddings, business, personal and many more. Cancellation fees can be a major financial loss to you and as a small business we need to adhere to our cancellation policies. Please go to the ride page on our website for your ride and click the 'Terms & Conditions' button to see the ride's cancel policy.

Travel Insurance: Domestic travel insurance cover tends to be significantly cheaper than international cover (approx $50 for one week). Above are two websites that offer both international and domestic travel insurance that you can look at. You can also speak to your local travel agent, or often airline booking websites will offer travel insurance as an optional extra as you book your flight.

Cyclist insurance for accidents & medical:

http://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/join-in/91741/

http://www.bq.org.au/join/insurance/

This is also very strongly recommended. We cannot emphasise enough how important this is. Cycling can be a dangerous activity and you must be prepared for the worst. You may have an accident in training for the ride, on the ride itself, or cycling down to the corner dairy. If you are a cyclist coming on our tour you should be 100% prepared for the unexpected.

Cyclist insurance can be bought separately, or it comes with cycling memberships such as Bicycle Network Victoria or Bicycle Queensland. If you are involved in a crash or collision they will support you with personal injury costs, loss of income, third party liability insurance, assistance in completing your claim paper work & free legal consultation.

Life Insurance and TPD Insurance (often paid through your superannuation), and Private Health Insurance are also worth considering.

People from all parts of Australia and overseas. Ages generally range from 30 - 70 with the average age about 50 years old. Adventurous cyclists usually about 40% women & 60% men with a mix of singles, friends and couples.