On this 105 km loop ride with (1,800m climb), you'll be split into two groups with a pro-peloton rider front and rear of each group.
You'll start your ride at 6:30am from Audley in the Royal National Park. Climbing from the Hacking River you will cycle along the sandstone plateau, descend into sub tropical forest and finally a pleasant climb to leave the Royal at Otford. Our first stop is Bald Hill. Famous for Hang Gliding and steeped in aviation history, Bald Hill provides expansive views of the Illawarra Escarpment.
Descending into the village of Otford we tackle the infamous ‘Wall’. The brave can strike out for the KOM. Our route follows the Old Princess Highway past Darkes Forrest and the trip highpoint of 400m. This section might suit a social peloton push. Our second stop is the Gelato Emporium at Bulli Tops. This half way point offers further extraordinary escarpment and ocean views to the north and south.
After descending Bulli Pass to sea level, you'll be taking some quiet roads above the coastal villages of Thirroul, Austinmer and Coledale. The sub tropical forests at the foot of the escarpment are the road less travelled. Cycling along the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, you'll soon arrive at the beachside Stanwell Park kiosk for our third and final stop.
Now the final push up to Bald Hill, then descending back into the Royal National Park and the last leg returning to Audley. There will be a very optional 10km gravel section along Lady Carrington Drive for those wanting to ‘ cut the corner’. The highly regarded Audley Dance Hall is where you will relax with a drink and sit down for lunch. Celebrity rider Mark Renshaw will regale us with anecdotes from the pro peloton.
Check out the cycle route.
On all of the major climbs of the day, riders are ‘free’ to go up at their own pace. There are SIX designated re-group points along the route and you'll have THREE opportunities to access your musette (riders bag) supplied by Two Wheel Tours Riders. You can use the musette for putting clothing or nutrition foods you no longer want during the ride.
* There is the option to skip the National Park section of the ride, and join for the Bald Hill loop for a total ride of 43.7km with a 825m climb.
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