The upcoming Gran Fondo Beechworth isn't just a one-day sportive but a three-day 'festival of cycling' running from Friday 19 April until Sunday 21 April 2013 in Victoria, Australia.
There are numerous events on offer, catering to the serious cyclist, recreational enthusiast and even those with a longing to return to the days of steel frames, toe clips, woolen jerseys and unsealed roads.
Proceedings will be kicked off on Friday with a late afternoon cyclocross event, serving as the warmup to Saturday’s 173km Gran Fondo around the Beechworth area. The literal highlight of the day will be the challenging ascent up Stanley Hill. This 10km climb is served up toward the end of the main ride or the 83km Media Fondo.
For riders who want something a little more classic, Saturday’s L’Eroica sends participants on a 68km timed ride along unmade roads, with fuel stops offering cheese, salami and other traditional snacks to keep you and your steel steed fuelled for the journey. A shorter 35km version is also available on the Sunday, for those entered in the Gran Fondo or Media Fondo.
With plenty of delicious food and wine tastings available throughout the weekend it might be more appropriate to simply enjoy a few days off and take part in the Saturday or Sunday Gourmet Fondo – a leisurely tour to sample some of the delights from local producers including the Sam Miranda winery.
For more information visit the Gran Fondo Beechworth website.