INTRODUCING THE 60KM GRAVEL GIRO

Not ready to tackle the full 125km Giro della Donna loop? We have some good news for you. We’re excited to announce a shorter 60km ‘Gravel Giro’ option, new for 2017. Featuring 1,500m of climbing, more than 30km of gravel, and a mountaintop finish it is a relaxed and rewarding alternative to the 125km Giro della Donna.

After a gentle roll down to the quiet town of Milgrove, you’ll head west along a meandering rail trail, before riding up the paved Don Valley climb and the picturesque Myrtle Creek wooden bridge. A short sector of hard-packed gravel will deliver you to Panton Gap, and the chance to take in the views above Healesville. The road once again turns to dirt as you ascend through temperate rainforest, with no shortage of photo opportunities along the way. After a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Upper Yarra Valley you’ll once again be on paved roads, for the final kilometres to the summit of Mount Donna Buang.

After refuelling, and plenty of photos it’s all downhill on closed roads on the way back to the event village in Warburton.

New things to look forward to for the event weekend in 2017:

Saturday 25 November:
– Village expo area
– Afternoon Cyclocross races
– Kids races
– Twilight road criterium
– Entertainment in the village
– Glamping option in the village

Sunday 26 November:
– Invitational race
– 125km Giro della Donna (125km / 2750m)
– 60km Gravel Giro (60km / 1500m)