The Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival is back for its third edition – and it’s bigger and better than ever.
If you’ve ever traversed the stunning landscapes of Tropical North Queensland along the Great Barrier Reef Drive, you’ve no doubt been captivated by its sheer beauty.
This spectacular coastal route, which runs between the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the majestic Great Barrier Reef, is more than just a road; it’s an experience.
Normally bustling with vehicles shuttling between Cairns and Port Douglas, this September, something extraordinary awaits.
Picture this: the iconic Great Barrier Reef Drive, stretching from Port Douglas to Palm Cove, devoid of traffic, exclusively reserved for cyclists.
Welcome to the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival, a cycling extravaganza like no other. It’s time to escape to paradise.
The perfect excuse to visit
The Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival isn’t just a cycling event.
It’s a gateway to a myriad of adventures in Tropical North Queensland.
Debuting in 2022 and continuing the momentum in 2023, guests who attend the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival come not only for the cycling, but also for the breathtaking landscapes of Port Douglas and Cairns.
There’s a plethora of experiences waiting to be explored beyond the festival, from snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef with Quicksilver Cruises to the Daintree Rainforest, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, beautiful resorts, amazing restaurants and cafes, and so much more (see box on page 46 for more information).
Choose your own adventure
Whether you’re an avid cyclist seeking a challenge or a casual rider in pursuit of a scenic ride at a more leisurely pace, the Port Douglas Gran Fondo offers something for everyone.
Take your pick from four distances: the 136km and 100km Gran Fondo, the 60km Semi Fondo, or the 48km Medio Fondo.
Each route promises a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping thrills and awe-inspiring scenery.
Whatever you choose, you can bid farewell to the chilly temperatures and gloomy skies of the southern states as you bask in September’s splendour in Tropical North Queensland.
Daytime temperatures hover between 26-28 degrees Celsius, there’s minimal humidity, and September also has the least rainy days of any month.
It’s paradise perfected.
Super Saturday
Saturday’s schedule is a symphony of excitement catering to both participants and spectators alike.
It includes the Hartley’s to Port MTB race, which starts at the front doors of Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and finishes on Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas.
With the addition of a $2,300 prize pool this year it’ll see many riders pushing themselves to their limits.
Then it’s time for the Four Mile Beach Sprint, a 250-metre MTB drag race on the sand hosted by MC Mark Beretta of Sunrise and 7 Sport fame, who has been the voice of the Port Douglas Gran Fondo since its debut in 2022.
Saturday also includes the Lexus of Cairns Criterium, which is held on a fully closed street circuit in front of the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina.
The prize pool of $2,400 is spread evenly among the grades, so it’s sure to attract riders from all levels.
For a participation event the whole family can enjoy there’s Choo Choos Free Family Ride.
Or end your day under lights at the Wharf Street Sprint, a 250-metre road sprint race knockout competition.
Meanwhile, for spectators, the Port Douglas Gran Fondo promises front-row seats to all the racing action, which takes place beside the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina.
The trackside bar offers a great vantage point to witness the thrill of the races – immerse yourself in the festivities with live music, DJ sets and an all-day expo brimming with excitement.
It’s truly a unique celebration of cycling culture.
Aid station fun and finish line festivities
At the Port Douglas Gran Fondo, aid stations aren’t merely pit stops; they’re vibrant hubs of energy and excitement.
Transforming into fun zones, each aid station offers a unique experience, from water pistols and inflatable crocodiles to themed barbecues and impromptu dance parties.
It’s a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and community that defines the Gran Fondo experience.
And crossing the finish line isn’t just a culmination of your cycling journey; it’s the beginning of a celebration.
With the finish line located behind the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, right by the water’s edge, indulge in a post-race extravaganza like never before.
Live music, tantalising food vans and ice-cold beers await, along with providing the perfect respite to unwind and revel in your achievements.
Your gateway to paradise
Getting to the Port Douglas Gran Fondo couldn’t be easier.
With flights into Cairns Airport and convenient Exemplar Coaches and Limousines shuttle services or car rentals available, embark on a journey of discovery through the wonderful landscapes of the region.
Whether you seek five-star luxury or the simplicity of campsite living, accommodations in Port Douglas or Palm Cove cater to every preference and budget.
Additionally, in 2024 the Festival will not clash with any other major cycling events, so now everyone can join in the excitement.
Event MC and ambassador, Mark Beretta, says the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival is one of the most incredible cycling experiences he has ever had.
‘The 2023 event was spectacular and everyone from across Australia, and around the world, had a fantastic time – not just on the ride, but with the whole Tropical North Queensland Experience,’ Beretta says.
‘With only 2,000 spots available, I’d highly recommend you enter today so you don’t miss out.
Talk to your family and your cycling mates and arrange a holiday in paradise!’ The Port Douglas Gran Fondo isn’t just a cycling event; it’s an invitation to ride and revel in one of Australia’s – and, indeed, the world’s – most stunning locations.
Escape the winter chill down south and immerse yourself in the sun-drenched splendour of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist seeking new challenges or a casual rider in pursuit of unforgettable experiences, the Gran Fondo promises an adventure like no other.
Come and discover for yourself why participants rave about this extraordinary ride.
Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
What to do outside of the Gran Fondo
Extend your stay in Port Douglas and try all that this incredible region has to offer, including:
- Great Barrier Reef
- Daintree Rainforest
- Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
- Crocodile spotting on the Daintree River
- Four Mile Beach
- Cape Tribulation
- Wildlife Habitat
- Port Douglas Markets
(8am – 1:30pm on Sundays) - Amazing restaurants and cafes
- Beautiful resorts
And that’s just around Port Douglas. Venture south to Cairns and see:
- Skyrail & Scenic Railway
- Palm Cove Beach
- Skypark Cairns
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Pools
- Rafting on the Barron River
- Rainforestation Nature Park
- Kuranda Birdworld
- Atherton Tablelands Waterfall and Waterways Trail
And so much more!
The details
What Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival
When 6-8 September 2024 – no conflict with any other major cycling events in Australia
Where Port Douglas, Cairns and surrounds
How long Four distances of 136km and 100km (Gran Fondo), 60km (Semi Fondo) and 48km (Medio Fondo)
Additional events Hartley’s to Port MTB Race, Four Mile Beach MTB Sprint, Lexus of Cairns Criterium, Wharf Street Sprint and Choo Choos Free Family Bike Ride
For further information visit portdouglasgranfondo.com.au!
