A 271km course through the Snowy Mountains is set to thrill local cycling enthusiasts.
The course, touted as the highest in Australia with a total of 5025 climbing metres, will be one of 10 rides for cyclists as part of Drops + Hoods in the Snowy Mountains.
The event will incorporate a range of road, gravel and mountain bike courses of varying lengths, and is planned to run from Thursday, December 2, to Sunday, December 5.
"We are thrilled to be back in the Snowy Mountains with Drops + Hoods for many years to come," Lateral Events Head of Sport, Florent Malézieux said in a statement.
"I am looking forward to seeing road cyclists, gravel riders and mountain-bike riders sharing their passion for cycling, having some banter on what discipline is the best and enjoying the beautiful Snowy Mountains with their friends and family."
Organised by the owners of L'Étape Australia, the only official Tour de France event in Australia, it will bring visitors to the communities of Jindabyne, Berridale, Dalgety and the resorts of Thredbo, Lake Crackenback, Perisher and Charlotte Pass.
Special events and entertainment held in collaboration with the local community will also celebrate what Snowy Mountains communities have to offer.
The 271km route will take riders over the Charlotte Pass, the highest paved road in Australia.
Later dates have also been scheduled for the event in case of conflicting COVID-19 rules, and registrations will open once restrictions are eased in NSW.
