With 133,000 spectators expected to gather in the town to watch the Tour Down Under race on Sunday 26 January, the Willunga Recreation Park committee wants visitors to pitch their tent and stay longer. 

“The race is the highlight but there’s also a beer festival and other activities so we decided to open up the oval facilities so visitors can stay in the heart of Willunga to enjoy the long weekend of festivities,” says Brian Dempsey, secretary of the Willunga Recreation Park committee. 

Willunga’s pubs will offer live music and entertainment on Friday night to set the scene for a weekend of memorable experiences. 

On Saturday morning, right across the road from the park, the famous Willunga Farmers Market enables visitors to meet local growers and soak in the diverse foodie scene from across the fertile Fleurieu.

At 4pm the inaugural Fleurieu Beer Festival will be launched at the Willunga Recreation Park.

Eight brewers will showcase a diverse range of craft beers with each eager to talk hops, froth and the Fleurieu.  As well as beer, there’ll be local food, live music, giant games and market stalls. 

“Gather your friends and share a summer's afternoon sampling the Fleurieu's finest breweries in one location,” says exhibitor Kathrin, from Victor’s Place. Entry is $20.

There is nothing like fuelling up on carbs at any of High Street’s many cafes on Sunday morning, ready for a full day of high-adrenaline watching the world’s best cyclists battle it out for the King of the Mountain crown and stage six win. 

With the route bordering the park, there is prime viewing and easy access to the Village Square, where farmers’ market stall holders will offer food, coffee, gin and ice cream. 

Linger on High Street to enjoy post-race celebrations before meandering back home or to your welcoming campsite to rest and refresh. 

It’s the second year the Willunga Recreation Park has offered its facilities for casual camping over the TDU weekend, and Brian says bookings are coming from across Adelaide and interstate.

“Three groups from Geelong booked as soon as they heard. They’ve been coming over for the Tour for many years, so when they found out that they could camp in the heart of Willunga, they jumped at the opportunity.”

For more information check out:

Bookings at the Willunga Recreation Park Tour Down Under campground      

Tickets to the Fleurieu Beer Festival

Tour Down Under stages