Ride Old Willunga Hill (Without the Pain): A Scenic eBike Loop for Wine & Adventure Lovers

Ride Old Willunga Hill (Without the Pain): A Scenic eBike Loop for Wine & Adventure Lovers

King of the Mountain crown painted on the road at the top of Willunga Hill for the TDU
View over Onkaparinga Gorge National Park
Man with his eBike in front of Dali sculpture of an elephant and herald, D'Arenberg Cube, McLaren Vale
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If you've ever watched the Tour Down Under and thought “I’d love to do that…

… if only it weren’t uphill both ways!”—we’ve got the perfect ride for you.

Hop on an electric bike and enjoy the best of McLaren Vale’s famous climbs and cellar doors without the lactic acid. This scenic eBike route gives you a taste of the legendary Old Willunga Hill—finding fame again with the TDU—with power-assisted ease, stunning vineyard views, and the chance to indulge in some seriously good wine and food.

 

Iconic Climbs, Incredible Views

Start your ride along the peaceful Shiraz Trail, winding your way toward the charming village of Willunga. Once there, take on the challenge of Old Willunga Hill—a world-class 3km climb that feels entirely manageable on an eBike. At the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the ranges and vineyards.

This is one of the iconic cycling climbs in South Australia, but on an eBike, you’ll feel like a superhero. No Lycra required.

Wine, Dine & Cruise

After the climb, coast along scenic backroads and make your way down Pennys Hill Road. Check out Sew & Sew Wines / Penny Red Brewery before turning into McMurtrie Rd, where you will be spoiled for choice with over 10 cellar doors / restaurants, perfect for a long lunch or wine tasting—or both.

 

Feeling adventurous? Continue your loop via Oliver’s Road and take a detour to Mollydooker Wines for bold reds and playful vibes. Just a bit further on, you’ll find the picturesque of Coriole Vineyards, where you can wander through garden-lined paths before relaxing at their historic cellar door or onsite restaurant.

Still got some juice in the battery (or your legs)? A final short climb takes you to the amazing Dandelion "Wonder Room" or  Samuel’s Gorge cellar door, where rustic charm meets epic views over Onkaparinga Gorge, and then on to McLaren Vale Distillery.

 

A Ride to Remember

This loop is all about savouring the journey—not racing to the finish. With your eBike doing the heavy lifting, you’ll have more time and energy to enjoy the sights, snap photos, and treat yourself along the way.

It’s a fantastic ride to do year-round (just avoid the peak summer heat), and perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to blend light adventure with local flavour.

Ready to ride the region like a local—with a little extra power?
Book your eBike today and explore the best of McLaren Vale with ease.