The Southern Hemisphere’s biggest road race, the Santos Tour Down Under, is a big drawcard when the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast hosts Stage Six stage of this iconic race. The course is one of the most picturesque on the tour - that’s what we hear! And we won’t argue! Think, hills, vineyard valleys and beach – as the course winds its way through McLaren Vale, Port Willunga, Aldinga, Aldinga Beach and Willunga…and finishes with the epic Willunga Hill climb.
Local riders have long taken up the challenge of trying to conquer Willunga Hill and even the professional riders regard it as one of the most challenging aspects of the Santos Tour Down Under.
If you want your own crack at the King on the Mountain title, you have the opportunity to ride Willunga Hill year-round, just be mindful it’s a public, winding road.
And just so you know why it is so tough, the Willunga Hill Climb is 3 km long and about 7.5% grading the whole way.
Ritchie Porte holds the record, ride the hill and compare your time to the pros!
Willunga Hill Climb - Motorsport
If 4 wheels is more your style, the Willunga Hill Climb held late November or early December annually is a great motor sport event. (currently on hold)
Attracting entries from across Australia, drivers compete across a variety of classes from classic cars to high performance, which sees them test their skills at least four times on each of their hill runs.
Willunga main street is a buzz with activity and is the festival hub, where you can get up close and personal with the cars and drivers – a great event not to be missed.
