A world class cycling race is set to kick off in January and will show off the sights and sounds of South Australia.

The Santos Tour Down Under is a great attraction for people on holidays to Australia, who can stand on the side-lines and cheer on the World Tour professional cycling teams.

It takes place from January 15th until 22nd and will begin with a 32-mile closed-circuit road race in Adelaide.

Meanwhile, the six stages of the main race will cover almost 500 miles across many regions of South Australia, including the Barossa and Clare Valleys and the picturesque routes of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Spectators, who come in their thousands every year, can take in the beautiful scenery, watch the racers and enjoy the region's food and wine.

There is even a new Tour Down Under Scenic Flight helicopter experience for real cycling fans to watch the action from above at any of the six stages of the competition.

Posted by Linda Ellison