Giro Della Donna

The Giro Della Donna is a cycling race that generally occurs in November each year between Warburton and Mt. Donna Buang.

The race takes place over 125 km of road and has a climb of more than 2,750 metres, making it challenging for all riders.

You will be riding through beautiful forested areas with tall trees and ferns on each side. There will be many shady sections to keep off the hot sun and stunning views as you climb.

GIRO DELLA DONNA

Starting and finishing in the heart of the stunning township of Marysville and with a dramatic climb to the top of Lake Mountain to finish the timed sections of the course, the Giro della Donna has become one of Australia’s most unique and talked-about routes.

The course is unique in terms of beauty, the amount of climbing, the 13km Gravel Sector, climbing Mt Donna Buang, and the true mountain-top timed finish at Lake Mountain. It is a challenge for any cyclist, but it is attainable and can be enjoyed by all.

But the setting will have you reliving the ride over and again in your mind. Not far from the start in the tourist town of Marysville, you’ll find yourself among tall-timbered giants on the single-lane Acheron Way. The 13km Gravel Sector of road-bike-friendly hard-packed gravel delivers you to your first challenge of the day: a consistent 6% for 8km to the summit of Mt Donna Buang. An incredible 20km descent follows down to the outskirts of Warburton. From there, we roll the furthest reaches of the Upper Yarra Valley, where you’ll be immersed in the temperate rainforest as you tackle the lesser-known Reefton climb, featuring more than 180 corners as it snakes its way toward the Alpine resort, and the final challenge of the day, of Lake Mountain. The only thing left after crossing the line atop the mountain? An incredible descent back into the event village of Marysville.

GRAVEL GIRO

The (gravel) hills are alive! So join us as we explore the incredibly scenic and quiet (managed + closed) gravel roads surrounding Marysville.

The Gravel Giro is a cracker; you’ll ride stunning forested climbs, flow down ridge lines and enjoy everything in between. Race or ride. But one thing is certain: it’s the perfect and rewarding complement to Sunday’s 145km Giro della Donna.

Criterio

The all-new Criterio, Giro Della Donna’s twilight criterium, is where speed meets spectacle under the setting sun. As Saturday fades into night, Marysville’s town centre will be transformed into a high-speed road race circuit. Riders push themselves to the limit, navigating tight corners with precision and intensity. The glowing sunlight and crowds create a memorable setting.

There are four different races on offer, so you can choose the one that’s right for your appetite. If the roar of the crowd lining the barriers isn’t enough to motivate you, you should know that there is a purse on offer for the Maglia Rosa and a host of prizes for the Gruppetto.

SERATA COPPI DINNER

The region is home to some of the country’s finest food, vino and cycling. To celebrate, we’re hosting Serata Coppi, a special evening event. Capped at just 125 guests, enjoy an intimate night in the heart of Marysville at Peppers Marysville.