Angaston to host a stage start and finish as Santos Tour Down Under unveils groundbreaking new format
The eyes of the cycling world will once again turn to South Australia in 2027, with some of the state’s best-known tourist regions preparing to take centre stage in a history-making Santos Tour Down Under.
For the first time, men and women will race the same course, on the same day and across the same distance, making the South Australian event the first race in the world to introduce the groundbreaking format.
The 2027 edition will also be the longest on record – a nine-day festival of cycling with riders set to tackle more than 1,270 kilometres across the men’s and women’s races, taking in city streets, coastline, vineyards and some of the state’s most iconic climbs.
While Adelaide will again welcome cycling fans from across the globe, it will be regional South Australia’s landscapes, towns and communities that provide some of the event’s biggest moments.
Angaston Takes Centre Stage
The Barossa will host Race Day 2 on Wednesday, January 20, with Angaston the centre of the action as riders tackle a 145.6km stage starting and finishing in the historic town.
The circuit will take in some of the region’s favourite towns including Tanunda, Greenock and Nuriootpa, with riders completing three 50km loops before a final push back into Angaston.
The return of Menglers Hill will test riders, while Tanunda’s Murray Street will host two sprint sections.
Barossa Council Mayor Michael Lange said the region was thrilled to again secure such a prominent role.
“It’s great to see the race moving around to other towns, and a refreshed route that still incorporates the broader region,” Mayor Lange said.
“Last year’s event was a huge success with some local businesses having their biggest day. The crowd, the atmosphere, the economic benefit the race brings – what’s not to love?”
Coast, Hills And Wine Regions On Show
The Barossa won’t be the only regional favourite in the spotlight.
The Fleurieu Peninsula will play a major role, with riders heading through McLaren Vale, Myponga and Yankalilla before another spectacular finish along the Esplanade at Victor Harbor.
The Adelaide Hills will also feature heavily, with the opening day sending riders up the brutal Checker Hill climb between Kersbrook and Forreston — not once, but three times.
The final day will also head for the hills, with riders leaving Norwood before travelling through Birdwood and finishing with a showdown in Stirling.
Mayor Lange said events like the Santos Tour Down Under provided a valuable chance to showcase regional destinations to the world.
“When the Santos Tour Down Under is in town, pictures are beamed across the world,” he said.
“It all contributes towards us being recognised as a premium tourism and events destination.”
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