Cycle South Australia's Wine Regions

Trip Code: PZXS

Why we love it

Make the most of possibly our most relaxed cycling tour – ride just the best bits and be transported for the rest., Experience the icons of Australian food and wine with visits to the likes of Penfolds, Maggie Beers, Seppeltsfield, and more., Cycle on mostly traffic-free trails along the Clare Valley’s Riesling Rail Trail, the Barossa Trail, and the Coast to Vines Shiraz Rail Trail in McLaren Vale., Kick back in cosmopolitan Adelaide, one of the nine Great Wine Capitals of the World., Discover more than just wine in the stunning and diverse scenery, from beautiful rural landscapes and historic sandstone cityscapes, stunning sandy beaches, to some of the finest local produce Australia has to offer., Cycle in the company of an experienced guide as they share their unique perspective of this fascinating region., By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

Is this trip right for me?

This itinerary has a full time support vehicle for emergencies and to transport your luggage between accommodations.

Due to the relatively small distances cycled on this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group.

Important information

1. To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
2. On this trip, we have a single leader that rides with the group.
3. Your luggage is transported for you from accommodation to accommodation each day.
4. Our riding is done mostly on a well-graded and maintained gravel cycle path, so there are no technical cycling skills required. Riding distances may vary depending on the fitness and interests of the group.
5. As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same gender. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it while you can.
6. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 
7. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip, please ensure you bring your own bike helmet.
8. Note that on public holidays some included activities (including Maggie Beers, Penfolds, etc.) may be closed, and those open may be extremely busy. We will endeavour to source alternative activities during these times.

What to bring/pack

CYCLING
Packing for a cycling tour isn’t that different from any other adventure, but if you want to be comfortable and warm, here are a few bike-specific requirements and suggestions:

• Main piece of luggage – as space in our support vehicle/transport can be limited we request that you bring only a small bag as your main piece of luggage. We recommend a soft-sided bag

• Helmet – these are compulsory, but if you don’t have your own you can often purchase an approved and well-fitted one at the start of the trip (our leaders can assist you with this). There are some destinations where you are unable to purchase appropriate helmets locally so you will always need to bring your own - please check the 'Important Notes' section to see if this is the case.

• Padded bike shorts

• Quick-dry jerseys – you can get away with a few cotton t-shirts but having a few light and breathable jerseys will make your cycling a lot more comfortable, especially in warmer/humid climates.

• Quick-dry socks

• Cycling gloves / Regular gloves – not essential but recommended as padded cycling gloves will make your riding more comfortable and can help protect you in the case of a fall. Regular gloves for those who may not own cycling gloves to keep hands warm in cold wet weather.

• Rain gear – pack a light poncho in case the weather turns when you’re out on the road.

• Light breathable waterproof/windproof outer layers – especially useful for those early mornings or downhill sections when wind-chill becomes a factor.

• Water bottle – we don't provide bottles, but all our bikes have one bottle holder fitted (and a second one can be fitted if required). Please bring a cycling-specific water bottle as other types will fall out of the holders. A Camelbak will make drinking on-the-go easier.

• Sunglasses – well-fitted sports sunglasses help protect against dust, insects and the sun.

• Day pack – our support vehicle will carry your main piece of luggage, but a day pack for snacks and clothes is a good idea.

• Sunscreen – please bring a high protection factor (e.g. SPF50) sunscreen as long days in the saddle mean long exposure to the sun.

• Shoes – normal sports shoes can be worn on all our trips however you may want to consider a flat shoe with a relatively stiff sole as it makes pedalling a lot more efficient. Regular cyclists are welcome to bring their own cycling-specific shoes however we recommend 'mountain bike' style shoes that have grip on the sole rather than ‘road bike' shoes as you will still be walking around while on the rides (cafe/photo/toilet stops, etc). For safety reasons we require that you wear shoes that completely cover the toes while riding.

• Saddles – Our saddles are standard, unisex models –less experienced cyclists may choose to bring your own gel seat cover for added comfort.

• Pedals – all bikes come with flat pedals. Regular cyclists are welcome to bring their own pedals – our leader will assist in fitting them to your bike.

• Bike Lights - we design our Cycling trips so that you are only riding during daylight hours so do not include bike lights. Should you feel more comfortable riding with 'daytime' flights please bring your own and we will be happy to assist in fitting them to your included bicycle, BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
If you would like to bring your own bike please see the 'Transport' section of your Essential Trip Information.

Physical rating

 
2

PHYSICAL PREPARATION
There are regular rest breaks each day, however it is important to note that you will be riding over multiple and consecutive days in a climate and terrain that may be unfamiliar. While it can be tempting to start out riding as hard and fast as you can (we get it!) we recommend taking it easy on the first few days while your body gets used to the rides and the climate.

As a general rule, the more preparation you can do for this type of trip, the more you will enjoy it. Prepare for the trip by doing aerobic type exercises before travelling - jogging or swimming are some options, though cycling is best. If possible take some extended day rides before travelling, or spend time on exercise bikes in the gym. The more your muscles (and bottom) are prepared for the riding on this trip the more you will be able to enjoy the wonderful countryside and people you meet while riding. Note that an enthusiasm for bike riding and adventure is essential!

It is also important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle, both solo and in a group environment.

CYCLING DISTANCES:
The information listed in the itinerary is a guide to the approximate distances and terrain cycled each day. However, this may vary depending on the physical capabilities of the group, and changes to local conditions. For safety reasons we only cycle during daylight hours, so there may be some early morning starts. We take regular rest breaks throughout cycling days.

With relatively short cycling distances and even terrain this is one of our easiest cycling trips and one that can be completed by almost anyone with a 'normal' degree of cycling fitness or experience. It should be noted however that the extremes of whether (both heat and cold, and wind) can make the cycling more physically demanding than it may otherwise appear.

Joining your group

The Terrace Hotel (formerly Sage Hotel), 208 South Terrace, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA, Phone: +61 882232800

The Terrace Hotel (formerly Sage Hotel Adelaide) is a quality hotel on the southern edge of the city centre overlooking the scenic South Parklands. Facilities include the on-site Zouk restaurant, 24 hour reception, room service, and parking is available. All rooms are non-smoking and have a flat screen television, free high speed Wi-Fi, coffee pod machine, as well as all the usual facilities. Check-in time is from 2pm. You can catch a free tram to Rundle Mall Shopping Center, Adelaide Central Market and many local restaurants and bars from the tram stop located just 200 m from the hotel.

Alternate Joining Point


Joining instructions

The hotel is located approx. 7 kms from Adelaide Airport and there are a number of transport options.

** Airport Shuttle
A Shuttle Service (Northern Flyer) from the airport to various hotels in Adelaide is available. On arrival into Adelaide Airport, make your way to the Information and Tourism Bookings booth located on the ground floor of the airport terminal. Staff will help you with your shuttle booking and inform you of the next shuttle time. Shuttles run approx. every half hour and you do not need to book ahead. The cost is $10 per person each way. Operating hours are as follows:
Monday – Friday: from 8am to 9pm
Saturdays: from 8am to 6pm
Sundays: from 8am to 5pm
See https://www.northernflyer.com.au/airport-to-cbd/ for more information.

** Bus & Tram
From Adelaide Airport to the city, catch buses J1, J3 and 163, departing every 15 minutes between 7.30am and 6.30pm Monday to Friday and every 30 minutes at night, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays until 10pm.
Alight at Currie Street Stop E3, and proceed to King William Street. Take the Glenelg Tram to South Terrace Stop. From there, The Terrace Hotel is just a short walk east along South Terrace.

** Taxi
Taxis are a convenient way to get to and from the airport. There is a designated taxi rank located to the left of the pedestrian plaza as you walk out of the terminal. If you have large luggage (e.g. your own bicycle) or a large group the Concierge organise a maxi taxis or station. The cost is usually around $30-35.

** Car
If you are arriving by your own vehicle self parking is available at $5 per vehicle per night.

Finishing your trip

Atlantic Tower Motor Inn, 760 Anzac Highway, Glenelg, 5045, AUSTRALIA, Phone: 08 8294 1011

Alternate Finish Point


Conveniently located, Atlantic Tower Motor Inn is directly opposite Wigley Reserve located just 200 metres Glenelg Beach and a short walk from all the popular cafes and attractions, including the popular Orange Spot Bakery just next door.

All rooms at Atlantic Tower Motor Inn feature air conditioning, private bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities, and laundry facilities are also available. Each room also has a flat-screen TV and limited free wifi. Drivers can park for free on the motel’s premises and Adelaide Airport is approx. 7kms away, a short 10 minute drive. Adelaide CBD and main railway station can be easily accessed by bus or the Glenelg tram from nearby Jetty Road.

Meals & dietary information

Breakfasts included: 5

Lunches included: 1

Dinners included: 

Your tour includes meals as indicated in our brochure and online. For some meals, we will stop in country towns where you can either purchase food to eat, or food to prepare later at the hostel facilities. Your Guide will inform you of the best way to go about this and also give recommendations of where to purchase food.

Travellers with special dietary requirements or food allergies are required to advise us at the time of booking.
You may be asked to pay for any additional food if you have not advised us of any special dietary requirements. Due to the often remote nature of our trips, food is basic but plentiful and delicious.

The below dietary needs can be easily catered for.

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Dairy Free (soy available )
Pork Free

Please bring your own staples (nuts, bars, snacks) if you require a diet differing from the above.

* Religious and more specific dietary requirements are generally unable to be catered for on these trips.

Climate & seasonal information

In case of emergency

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time.

For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us

In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below:

Intrepid's Local Partner: +61 3 7068 5000

Accommodations

Transportation

On this trip we use the Giant Roam ‘hybrid’-style bikes that have been chosen specifically for the easy Trail style riding. They feature front suspension, flat handlebars, Shimano gearing, and puncture-resistant tyres.
Please provide your height at time of booking so that we can reserve the perfect sized bike for you.

INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

An e-bike option is available for request on this trip (at an extra cost). Due to limited stock our e-bikes are always 'ON REQUEST' only and cannot be 100% confirmed we have received confirmation of availability. Our e-bikes come in 2 sizes:
Small/Medium (42cm) suitable for UP TO 177cm/5’10 riders
Medium/Large (46cm) suitable for riders from 173cm/5’8 and above.

Bikes are step though style with rear racks, pannier bags for incidentals, water bottle and water bottle cage.

BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.

SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.

BEFORE THE TRIP
We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.

DURING THE TRIP
Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).

In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.

INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.