Old Willunga Hill
McLaren Vale, SA
At a Glance
About the Old Willunga Hill
3km Tour Down Under signature climb in McLaren Vale - the 7.5% ascent that has decided the race winner more often than any other.
Old Willunga Hill is the most famous race climb in Australian cycling - the iconic 3km, 7.5% ascent through the McLaren Vale wine region that has served as the Tour Down Under's queen-stage finale almost every year since 2012. From the foot of the climb at the village of Willunga, the road rises 230m through vineyards and olive groves to a Strava segment ending at the lookout above the township. The climb has decided the overall TDU classification more often than any other stage and is synonymous with names like Richie Porte (six wins) and Simon Gerrans.
The gradient is consistent - there are no false flats and no major ramps, just relentless 7-8% from the bottom-of-climb sign to the top. The road surface is excellent, the lane widens for the climb, and the corners are sweeping rather than tight. On race day the entire 3km is lined four-deep with crowds and painted with the names of past winners.
Outside race week, the climb is open to the public and is the busiest training segment in South Australia. Strong riders tackle the climb in 7-9 minutes; the Strava KOM is a sub-6:30 effort by WorldTour pros.
Gradient profile — Avg gradient: 7.5%, Max gradient: 9%.
Old Willunga Hill Safety & Warnings
Hot summer afternoons; busy training segment; descent is fast - watch for cars at intersections.
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