LA GRANDE GITA EVENT INFORMATION

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SUNDAY 02 NOVEMBER 2025 

Bike SA is proud to partner with the Adelaide Italian Festival to bring this wonderfully sumptuous weekend festival of riding.

La Grande Gita is a chance to explore the gravel backroads of McLaren Vale and surrounding Fleurieu countryside in a family-friendly environment – from quiet backroad and flat rail trail riding to some of the most challenging gravel and bitumen riding in the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu region.  All this combined with authentic local produce and wine tastings in the tradition of our European friends. Not into gravel? We have fully-sealed and gravel-lite route options available! 

Dress to Impress – Italian Style!
This year we’re all about the outfits. Whether it’s classic Italian chic, over-the-top glamour, or playful costumes that turn heads, we want to see your flair on full display. Think bold colours, stylish accessories, and a touch of la dolce vita.

Vintage bikes are still welcome, but it’s your creativity in dress-ups that will really shine.

Prizes are up for grabs for the best-dressed across all ages – from stylish bambini to the most Milano-worthy adults.

Come ride, celebrate, and flaunt your look in true festival spirit. After all, La Grande Gita is as much about style and celebration as it is about the ride.

 Starting from our event village at Serafino Wines, you’ll set out on a ride through McLaren Vale’s quiet backroads, rolling vineyards, and scenic trails – from relaxed family-friendly paths like the Shiraz and Coast to Vines Rail Trail, to more adventurous gravel and bitumen routes across the Fleurieu. Between riding, locals will open their cellar doors for you to linger, to chat with fellow riders, enjoy a sip or a snack, and soak up the atmosphere before pedalling on to the next stop. 

And where does it all end? Right back at Serafino Wines, where the event village awaits with live music, great food, and plenty of coffee, wine, and beer to toast your day on the bike.

While the ride is on Sunday 2 November, there will so much more to see, do, eat, drink and experience in McLaren Vale . This is a must-do quick weekend getaway for the whole family to one of our most famous wine regions. So book in for an overnight stay to ensure you are refreshed for the Sunday ride experiences we look forward to welcoming you to.

La Grande Gita is designed for all kinds of riders – from families enjoying a gentle spin to gravel adventurers chasing a challenge.

• Espresso (10-20km) – Short, self-guided loops along the Shiraz Trail and Coast to Vines Trail. Ideal for families, casual cruisers, or those who’d rather mix their riding with time in the village.

• Piccolo (27km) – A relaxed, family-friendly ride perfect for new riders, kids, or anyone wanting to soak up the scenery at an easy pace.

• Mezzo (40km) – A social ride through the vines with time to linger at cellar doors and enjoy the local flavours along the way.

• Grande (60km) – A rewarding mid-distance ride for recreational cyclists looking for a mix of rolling backroads and great views.

• Mega Grande (80km) – The ultimate test: more gravel, more elevation, and more epic riding for those chasing McLaren Vale’s toughest challenge.
  

Which ride is for me?   

The ultimate test for riders who want it all: distance, elevation, and plenty of gravel. The first 38km follows the Grande route before the Mega Grande breaks away, heading north to Meadows and looping back via Prospect Hill, and Kuitpo Forest. After rejoining the Grande route at Blackfellows Creek, you’ll tackle The Range climb once more before a rewarding descent to McLaren Flat. From there, cruise along the Flat to Vale shared-use trail and roll into Serafino Wines to celebrate a true “Mega” achievement with coffee, beer, or wine in hand.

Terrain: 44% sealed | 56% unsealed/gravel

Approx 1,120m elevation

View the 80km route on RideWithGPS

Don’t be fooled by the name, the Grande packs a punch. Begin with a picturesque ride through the vineyards before tackling The Range and rolling into the heart of the Fleurieu via Yundi and Mount Magnificent. Expect stunning gravel sections and forested climbs through Kuitpo before ascending The Range once more. A steady descent delivers you into McLaren Flat, where the Flat to Vale Trail guides you back to the finish at Serafino Wines. A challenging ride, a rewarding finish.
Terrain: 37% sealed | 63% unsealed/gravel 

Approx 850m elevation

View the 60km route on RideWithGPS 

Prefer a ride with fewer hills but still plenty of character? The Mezzo offers a mix of sealed and gravel backroads, weaving through the vineyards and trails that define McLaren Vale. The loop includes sections of the Shiraz Trail and McLaren Flat Trail, plus opportunities to stop at cellar doors along the way. A more relaxed ride with enough variety to keep things interesting. Ideal for 4those who like to ride, sip, and savour. 

Terrain: 69% sealed | 29% unsealed/gravel 

Approx 375m elevation

View the 40km route on RideWithGPS     

The Piccolo is a gentler option, perfect for families, new riders, or anyone who wants to enjoy the festival atmosphere without tackling tough climbs. This sealed loop takes you along the Shiraz Trail and shared paths via the McLaren Vale Visitor Centre, Seaford Rise, and Aldinga before returning through Willunga’s vineyard views to the finish village. With prizes for best-dressed riders, it’s the perfect excuse to roll out in style. 

Terrain: 100% sealed

Approx 261m elevation

View the 27km route on RideWithGPS 

The most relaxed way to enjoy La Grande Gita. Choose your own adventure with one (or more!) of three short, self-guided routes along the Shiraz Trail and Flat to Vines Trail:

• Willunga via Shiraz Trail – 12km return
• McLaren Flat via Flat to Vale Trail – 10km return
• McLaren Vale Visitor Centre via Shiraz Trail – 7km return

These easy rides are perfect for families, kids, or anyone who prefers a short spin before settling into the village to enjoy the food, wine, and music.

Terrain: 100% sealed

View the 10km route options on  RideWithGPS     

Start / Finish Venue: Serafino Wines - 39 Kangarilla Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Distance from Adelaide CBD: 40km
Travel time: Approx 1hr via Southern Expressway and Victor Harbor Rd. Get directions.
Car Parking: Located onsite at Serafino 

Children 16 and under FREE ENTRY

EARLYBIRD PRICES | ENDS 11.59PM SUN 19 OCT 2025

Espresso (10-20KM)  FREE

Piccolo (27KM) $55 Member | $65 Non Member

Mezzo (40KM) $70 Member | $80 Non Member

Grande (60KM) $80 Member | $90 Non Member

Mega Grande (80KM) $90 Member | $100 Non Member

STANDARD PRICES | STARTS 12AM MON 20 OCT 2025

Espresso (10-20KM)  FREE

Piccolo (27KM) $65 Member | $75 Non Member

Mezzo (40KM) $80 Member | $90 Non Member

Grande (60KM) $90 Member | $100 Non Member

Mega Grande (80KM) $100 Member | $110 Non Member

Collection of Rider ID and route maps 

All riders must check in at the registration desk at the start venue on the morning of the ride to collect your Rider ID number and ride information.

Your Rider ID number will give you access to all food and refreshment stations en-route and at the finish.
Your Rider ID number should be attached to your jersey or the handlebars so it is visible.
Registrations (issuing of Rider ID) may take between 5 and 10 minutes, so allow plenty of time

Start / Finish Venue: Serafino Wines - 39 Kangarilla Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Distance from Adelaide CBD: 40km
Travel time: Approx 1hr via Southern Expressway and Victor Harbor Rd. Get directions.
Car Parking: Located onsite at Serafino 

Mega Grande 80km

Registration opens 7.00am – you must be registered by 7:45am
Rider briefing 7:45am
Start time 8.00am

Grande 60km

Registration opens 7:30am – you must be registered by 8.15am
Rider briefing 8.15am
Start time 8:30am

Mezzo 40km ride

Registration opens 8:00am – you must be registered by 8.45am
Rider briefing 8.45am
Start time 9:00am

Piccolo 27km ride

Registration opens 9.15am – you must be registered by 9.45am
Rider briefing 9.45am
Start time 10.00am

Registrations (issuing of Rider ID) may take between 5 and 10 minutes, so allow plenty of time.

• There will be portable toilets located onsite
• Car Parking: there is limited available at the venue 
• Car Parking:  Please do not park along the edge of Kangarilla Rd in front of Serafino.
• Follow the Event Parking signs and directions from traffic marshals to the grassed area on the eastern side of the Serafino grounds.  
• Coffee will be available for sale at the start

Road Safety Awareness

• You must obey all Australian Road Rules.
• Be aware that this is an open road event and you will be sharing the road with other traffic
• Ride in single file where appropriate and no more than 2 abreast at any time
• Pass only in single file and only on the right of other riders
• Keep your distance from those in front
• Move off the road before you dismount
• You must wear an approved Australian Standards bicycle helmet
• Use of flashing front and rear lights and wearing bright clothing is highly recommended to improve your visibility to others
• You must ensure your bike is serviced and ready for the ride; limited mechanical assistance is available en route
• Be aware of your fellow riders and other traffic. Indicate and call out your intention to slow down, stop or change direction
• Be sociable and safe. Ride with someone who can tell you to slow down
• Private support vehicles are not permitted along the route. Vehicles belonging to family and friends must use an alternative route

Signage & Marshals

• From start to finish there will be Bike SA RED arrows and other signage marking the route. You should however carry a copy of the route map / notes with you in case you become disoriented.
• Signs will also indicate when you are approaching a refreshment station.
• There will be marshals (wearing fluorescent vests) on the route, riding bicycles and in vehicles, as well as at stationary posts. All volunteers and staff involved in the event will be clearly identifiable. The marshals do not have the authority to stop motorists; they are there for your safety and other road users. Please listen and follow their instructions.

Refreshment Stations

Mega Grande 80km and Grande 60km 

Mount Magnificent @ approx 30km from the start

Mega Grande 80km riders can access toilets, water and shops in Meadows @ approx. 50km and there will be an additional refreshment stop in Prospect Hill at approx. 55km

Mezzo 40km ride

@ approx 20km

Piccolo 27km ride

Toilets and cafes available at Willunga 6km, Aldinga 12km and McLaren Vale Visitor Centre 24km

Lunch is NOT included in your registration.

NOTE:

• At each station water and fruit juices will be available. All riders must bring water to the start of the event and we suggest you bring some extra snacks to eat along the way or should you happen to break down

Refreshment Stations are the ideal places to step off your bike for a moment, have a rest, catch up with your riding buddies, enjoy the scenery and importantly, re-apply your sunscreen and make sure that you keep your hydration levels up.

Mechanical Support En-Route

Limited mechanical support will be available at the start and en-route. All official event vehicles and marshals will have the resources to help with punctures, though riders are responsible for carrying their own repair kits and spare tubes as well as ensuring that their bike is mechanically sound before the event.

If you need assistance, pull your bike to the side of the road/turn it upside down and call one of the support mobile numbers listed on your route sheet/map. There are ride marshals who may be able to assist or the support vehicle can collect you and your bike should you be unable to finish. Please note: we recommend that you carry at least a small tool kit with spare tube/tyre patches and you know how to use them. Please refer to the "Be Prepared" resource located under "Event Resources" located at the bottom of this page for more information on how to making sure that both you and your bicycle are in top condition for the ride.

Extreme Weather

Riders should be reassured that La Grande Gita has in place strategies to deal with hot weather. Firstly the ride is scheduled for early November, taking advantage of the slightly cooler weather of Spring.

There will be refreshment stations en-route, offering water and juice. In addition there will be Ride Marshals and support vehicles en route providing extra back-up.

Each vehicle will carry additional water supplies. Water will also be available at the start/ finish venue.

Extreme weather that may influence any decision to modify, postpone or cancel the ride, would be assessed using the following criteria:

• If three or more consecutive days leading up to the event day experience extreme apparent/wet bulb temperatures
• If the forecast for event day is for extreme apparent/wet bulb temperatures
• Hot / strong winds are forecast

In the event of forecast hot weather during the week beginning Monday 27 October, regular assessments will be made. If extreme weather is expected, the option remains to modify, postpone or cancel the ride, and any such decision will not be made any later than 8am Saturday 1 November. In this case any change would be highlighted on the Bike SA website and attempts would be made to contact registered riders by email or telephone.

As detailed in the Conditions of Entry, if the event is cancelled, fees are transferable to other Bicycle SA rides or refundable.

Riders are encouraged to monitor the weather forecast and prepare appropriately. Detailed weather information can be found on www.bom.gov.au

Please get in touch if you would like further information. office@bikesa.org.au Tel: (08) 8168 9999

Emergency / Incident Procedures

IN AN EMERGENCY DIAL 000

In the event of an incident, use the following checklist as a guide:

• Ensure your safety first
• Ensure the safety and welfare of any injured person, any participants, volunteers and/or public
• Contact appropriate emergency authorities, stating your name, location, phone number, role and service(s) required
• Remain at the scene until emergency assistance arrives, unless safe to do so
• Provide all possible assistance to emergency services
• Record all actions and times and details of all involved, including possible witnesses as soon as practical. If necessary / possible take photographs
• Contact Bike SA Event Operation as soon as possible on 0427 771 821

Route Support

• SAG WAGON -  0438 438 846  (Follows last rider - 80km Mega Grande and 60km Grande routes) 
• EVENT OPERATIONS - 0427 771 821

Please note that every attempt has been made to ensure the details contained in this information are accurate at the time of posting, however things can change and we urge you to check the validity of the information yourself.

Why not make a full weekend of it (or even longer) to enjoy the delights of McLaren Vale. There is a plethora of accommodation options available to suit all tastes and budgets

The McLaren Vale Visitor Information Centre is a great resource for finding a place to stay.  Visit mclarenvaleandfleurieucoast.com.au for more information.

What sort of bike should I ride? 

The simple answer: ride whatever you’re most comfortable on for the distance and terrain you choose.

For the shorter, smoother routes (Piccolo or Espresso rides), vintage bikes and retro kits are more than welcome,  in fact, they’ll add to the festival atmosphere!

For the longer rides (Mezzo, Grande, and especially the Mega Grande), we strongly recommend bikes with wider tyres and gearing suited to gravel and climbing. Gravel bikes, road bikes with 28mm+ tyres, hybrids, and e-bikes are all great options.

Super-skinny slick tyres are best avoided on the gravel sections, but a medium tread will give you comfort and grip. Whatever you ride, bring along a spare tube and basic repair kit so you’re ready for the adventure.

At the end of the day, La Grande Gita is about enjoying la dolce vita on two wheels,  whether that’s vintage steel or modern carbon.

What should I wear?

La Grande Gita is as much about style as it is about cycling, so bring a splash of fun to your ride! Whether it’s a vintage jersey, a colourful costume, or just something that makes you feel fabulous on the bike, we can’t wait to see your festival flair on show. Prizes will be awarded for the best-dressed, so don’t be shy!

Of course, comfort comes first,  so if you’d rather keep it simple, that’s just fine too. Whatever you wear, make sure to check the weather forecast and our event updates before the day. Spring in South Australia can change quickly, so layering is your friend: arm warmers and a light rain jacket will keep you ready for anything.

Where does La Grande Gita start and finish? 

Serafino Wines, located in lush vineyard surrounds on the outskirts of Mclaren Vale, is the venue for the start and finish of each La Grande Gita ride option.
The address is 39 Kangarilla Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171
Distance from Adelaide CBD: 40km | Travel time: Approx 1hr via Southern Expressway, and Victor Harbor Road.  Get directions.
Car Parking:  Please do not park along the edge of Kangarilla Rd in front of Serafino. Follow the Event Parking signs and directions from traffic marshals to the grassed area on the eastern side of the Serafino grounds.  

When do I collect my Rider ID number?

All riders will receive their Rider ID number when they check-in at the start. You’ll also be able to collect a copy of the route map and route notes with emergency contact numbers.

What time does the ride start? 

The Mega Grande 80km ride will start at 8.00am.

The Grande 60km and Mezzo 40km rides start at 8.30am.  

The Piccolo 27km ride starts at 10am.

The Espresso self-guided rides start any time before 11am.

What time do I need to register by on the day?

Check-in for each ride is from 1hr prior to the ride start.  Collect your exclusive La Grande Gita Rider ID from the registration area and attach it to your shirt or your bike. This will enable you to access the refreshment stops and is yours to keep as a memento your ride.

There will be a rider information & safety briefing 15 mins prior to the start.

Am I able to change my ride distance option on the day?

If you have registered for the longer 80km Mega Grande or 60km Grande ride and don’t think you can make the full distance, you can simply follow the 40km route. Similarly if you’ve registered for the 40km ride and find that you're riding well on the day, you can choose to continue on the longer routes if you think you’re up for the challenge.

If you have registered for a shorter ride and wish to ride one of the longer distances, you’ll need to pay the price difference when you check in at the start.

What sort of food/drinks are included?

Coffee will be available for purchase at the start and when you return to the finish.

Lunch is NOT included in your registration. However, lunch options will be available on the day.

A selection of food and beverage vendors will be on site - stay tuned for announcements!

What if I have mechanical problems?

Pull your bike to the side of the road/turn it upside down and call one of the support mobile numbers listed on your Rider ID or your route sheet/map. There are ride marshals who may be able to assist or the support vehicle can collect you and your bike should you be unable to finish. Please note: we recommend that you carry at least a small tool kit with spare tube/tyre patches and you know how to use them. Please refer to the Be Prepared resource for more information on how to making sure that both you and your bicycle are in top condition for the ride.

Are the roads closed?

No – La Grande Gita is an open road event. Depending on the ride option you have chosen you will be riding on a mix of sealed and unsealed gravel roads plus sealed off-road bike paths.

You will be sharing the road with traffic – so usual SA Road rules apply including riding no more than two abreast and then only when safe to do so. Otherwise ride single file, particularly on narrow and winding roads. Be aware of your position on the road and how visible you are to traffic – both oncoming and approaching from the rear.

The route is clearly marked with Bike SA red arrows which are easy to follow. Copies of the map and route notes are available at registration and in the interests of your safety, please take a copy with you.

Be rider aware and warn your fellow riders that you are overtaking – a simple comment “Passing” is recommended. Please do not litter – take your rubbish home with you!

Do I need to let you know when I have finished or if I withdraw during the ride?

Yes! So we know not to send out a search party for you, please sign back in when you return from each loop. This will enable us to keep track of how many riders are out on the circuit and help ensure everyone has returned safely. If you decide to withdraw part-way through the ride and go directly home or have someone collect you, please call the telephone number for the Event Operations number which will be printed at the bottom of your Rider ID and the route notes.

La Grande Gita Terms and Conditions