The route for the L’Étape Ride, a shorter version of the flagship Race, has been released. It shows a route along the coast from Kiama and a circuit passing through and ending in Berry (see map).

The Ride is over 80.6 km, features 1,237m of elevation, and will be held on fully closed roads. The ‘only’ climb is up Berry Mountain.

This compares to the 136 km Race, with 2770m of elevation.

Both will start in Kiama at 6am on Saturday 28 November. The Race is expected to attract 4000 entrants, and the ride 2000.

“Part of L’Étape Australia’s DNA is to offer every rider the unique experience to ride on fully closed roads and have the thrill of riding in a Tour de France event,” says Florent Malézieux, L’Étape Australia Race Director.

“With its shorter distance, the Ride makes this dream accessible to everyone.”

It is hoped the event will help the regions’ recovery from bushfires and COVID by attracting overnight visitors to support local business.

“It’s fantastic to see an event with such international ties as L’Étape provide a boost to regional NSW and support local businesses when they need it the most,” says the Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres.

Registrations for the Ride will open on 15 July.  Full details here.