There are holidays and then there are unique travel experiences. South Australia is an incredibly beautiful part of this world, rolling green hills (and great vineyards!), lush and park-like Adelaide, topped off by stunning coastlines.

There’s really no better way to see it however than on a cycling tour, unhindered by the confines of a car or bus, but in the midst of it all in glorious South Australian weather. Each year the Santos Tour Down Under World Tour Cycling Event attracts adventure seekers and sporting enthusiasts alike as festivals and celebrations follow the route through some of the state’s most breathtaking sceneries and charming locations.

“The Santos Tour Down Under brings the world’s best cyclists to the beautiful streets of South Australia. It has grown to be a festival of cycling and is enjoyed by fans of the sport from all over the globe,” explained Mike Turtur, Race Director of the Santos Tour Down Under.

Sporting holidays are some of the best kind, especially when they involve much merry-making, live music, fine wining and dining with local and international visitors in glorious surroundings. As the largest UCI World Tour event in the southern hemisphere the atmosphere is sure to be electric.

In 2012 the race attracted more than 760,000 people and from January 20 to 27, 2013, the festival of cycling will celebrate its 15th anniversary. “We have plenty of special events planned for the occasion,” said Turtur.

Heralded as the Best Sporting Event and Best Tourism Event at the Australian Event Awards in Sydney earlier this year, it’s an experience that must be added to a bucket list. And if you fancy yourself as a bit of a cyclist there’s an opportunity for you to join in.

“The race also features the popular Bupa Challenge Tour, which allows keen amateur cyclists to ride a stage of the race on the same day as pro teams”, explained Turtur.

Lost your cycling legs? No problems. Blue Holidays are offering a great package with some nice extras, so you can become a part of the fun and excitement, without even a warm up!

There are just so many exquisite dining opportunities, competitions, tours and experiences to choose from, it’s best to seek some expert help. Check out the Blue Holidays offer and let them sort it all out for you.

In addition, anyone who books a STDU package through Blue Holidays goes into the draw to win attendance at the Legends’ Night Dinner, Stage 5 VIP Hospitality including coach transfers and a Start line walk through.

Find out more here

Image courtesy of SATC, photograph by John Montesi © SATC