Santos WTDU: Explore Subaru Stage 3

This 109km route will see the pro cyclists leave the streets of Nairne, travel through the townships of the Hills region and finish with three circuits of a loop around Stirling, Heathfield and Aldgate.

So, what can you check out along the way?

Just off the race route, you’ll find the new collaborative food and beverage space, Lot 100 in Hay Valley. Home to The Hills Cider Company, Ashton Valley Fresh, Mismatch Brewing Co, Adelaide Hills Distillery and Vinteloper, you can sip on your drink of choice while enjoying tasty wood fire oven pizzas or a picnic in the grassed area (perfect for families with active kids).

If you’re looking to learn a little while you’re here, check out the Sticky Rice Cooking School in Stirling where you can discover how to cook an incredible array of cuisines and indulge in your hard work at the end of it.

You’ll also want to book a table to the Stirling Hotel for a feed before stopping off at Red Cacao for dessert. 

In Oakbank, you can bring the bike for a ride along the Amy Gillett Bikeway through to Mount Torrens. But be conscious of the rolling road closures during the race to avoid disruptions to your ride (or becoming one).

While in Hahndorf, there are a multitude of artisan offerings, great dining experiences, attractions and heritage buildings to explore.

Be sure to stop into the Hahndorf Academy to explore the handcrafted wares of local artists and creatives. You'll also be able to pick up handmade candles from the Hahndorf Candlemaker, or soaps from the Hahndorf Soap Factory. And if you feel like treating yourself, stop into the incredible jewellers, Makers Mark, or gift shop Storison.

We also recommend a visit to the historic home of renowned Australian artist, Sir Hans Heysen, The Cedars.

For those looking for the best place to catch the peloton… We’ll be parking ourselves along Mt Barker Road in Stirling where the cyclists will pass by three times.   

Grab an afternoon snack from  The Organic Market and Café, Miss Perez Kitchen and Bar, or the Stirling Hotel, and make sure you leave room for something sweet from Red Cacao.

After the race why not browse the boutique shops along the main street and take home a bag full of tasty goods for dinner?

Who loves strawberries? In Hahndorf, you will find the Beerenberg Family Farm, sixth-generation ‘pick your own’ strawberry farmers. Soak in some vitamin D and feast on the sweet fruits of your labour. Our tip: check it out online before you go in case the patch is closed.

Take a family break in the picturesque Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens where the kids can get their nature fix. It’s the perfect location to bring a picnic and set in for the afternoon.

A romantic night away at Mount Lofty House might just be what you’re after this January. With the opportunity to wine, dine and spa… well, you won’t regret your choice in accommodation.

For the families, we recommend the award-winning Hahndorf Resort – home to caravanning and camping options or furnished cabins. There’s even a mini golf course, giant jumping pillow and swimming pool on site to keep the kids entertained. 

For more accommodation suggestions, check out SouthAustralia.com.