Glenelg - Stirling Spectator Travel Guide: Women's Stage 2

Did you know you can watch the race from anywhere along the race route? Just find a suitable spot and enjoy the action!

Start the day...

The second stage of the women’s race will begin just 20 minutes out of the CBD at Adelaide’s favourite seaside destination: Glenelg. Fuel yourself with a scrumptious breakfast from café’s Fourth or Feed – both located on Glenelg’s bustling main strip, Jetty Road.

There’s no shortage of coffee options around Glenelg with Sweetish Tarts serving up excellent fairtrade organic coffee and Bracegirdles will have all your hot chocolate and coffee needs sorted.  

If the crowds are anything like Stage 1 of the 2023 women’s race at Glenelg, you’ll want to secure your spot on the busy start line to watch the historic start which kicks off at 11:10am.

Chase the peloton...

Make your way to Adelaide Hills town of Meadows where the first of the sprint points are on offer at around 12:28pm. Watch to see the sprinters in action while enjoying a freshly baked treat from the Meadows Bakery.

Trek over to Stirling – another leafy suburb of the Adelaide Hills – where the second efex Queen of the Mountain points are up for grabs and the finish line awaits.

Meander through tree-lined streets, explore boutique shops and grab a feed from one of the many dining spots like Miss Perez Kitchen & Bar, the Organic Market and Café or the Stirling Hotel.

Watch as the climbers earn points on the second lap of Stirling at around 2pm before tackling a final circuit lap which will see the stage 2 winner cross the line at approximately 2:23pm.  

Settle in…

If you park yourself in Stirling for the day, you’ll be lucky enough to catch the peloton three times and explore beautiful hills town while you’re at it.

Just 15 minutes from Adelaide, Stirling is the ultimate brunch location with the likes of Miss Perez Kitchen & Bar and the Organic Market and Café dishing up local goodness to satisfy hunger cravings.  

Stroll along the main street and discover an abundance of tempting shops from homewares, books, fashion, and gifts before the peloton rolls past for the first time around 1:30pm.

If you're feeling like an afternoon vino paired cheeses and a charcuterie board, pop into Barrel Wine Bar and select from finest food and wine the Adelaide Hills has to offer.

Indulge in some award-winning chocolate at the Red Cacao or book a table at the Stirling Hotel which will have prime viewing of the race finish at approximately 2:34pm.

Keep exploring…

Keep exploring the breathtaking Adelaide Hills, where a tapestry of natural beauty and culinary delights awaits.

Fred Eatery, a cosy hills café in Aldgate, is the place to go if you’re after good coffee and delicious food. Their delectable brunch options are made with locally sourced ingredients.

Another cosy hills brunch spot is Vertè Kitchen in Mylor where sustainable and plant-based cuisine is on the menu. Delight your taste buds with their innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced, seasonal produce.

For a hearty hills meal, look no further then Patch Kitchen and Garden where the frequently changing menu features locally sourced produce. The rambling villa and gardens provide ample spaces for adults to enjoy, as well as play areas for kids. Patch also caters for people with intolerances, and has something on the menu to appeal to most, including children.

Book a tour at Jurlique Farm and explore their organic gardens, where they cultivate the finest herbs and flowers for their renowned skincare products. Immerse yourself in the fragrant blooms and learn about their sustainable farming practices.

For a wildlife experience, visit Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Australia's unique wildlife. Encounter rare and endangered species in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts. From kangaroos to koalas, this sanctuary offers an immersive experience with native animals.

If you want more racing action, head to the Men’s Classic race in the Adelaide CBD where the men’s riders will make their first appearance at the Santos Tour Down Under.

Stay the night…

You are spoilt for choice with accommodation when it comes to the Adelaide Hills which is filled with cosy retreats, hotels and cottages. For a homey retreat, book Ode to the Orchard which has a rustic vibe and has stunning views of hills and the little village of Lenswood. For more options, visit: https://southaustralia.com/destinations/adelaide-hills/accommodation