Images: Supplied
For one weekend this spring, some of the Adelaide Hills’ most spectacular roads will be closed to everyday traffic and opened to a field of drivers ready to experience them in an entirely different way.
Behind the wheel of your own car, with a navigator beside you, you can sweep through winding Hills roads, and enjoy the rare thrill of driving across the full width of the road alongside hundreds of classic cars and exotic supercars.
It is the kind of experience usually reserved for professional rally drivers, but from October 16 to 18, the Shannons Adelaide Rally gives everyday motoring enthusiasts the chance to become part of South Australia’s largest closed-road tarmac rally.
“At its heart, the Adelaide Rally is a tarmac rally,” event organisers said.
“Unlike traditional circuit racing, participants compete or tour on up to 30 closed public roads over 3 days featuring everything from tight, technical corners to fast-flowing sections.”
The road closures allow drivers to experience some of Adelaide’s best motoring routes using both sides of the road without encountering oncoming vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians, and travel at speeds of up to 100km/h.
“What makes the Adelaide Rally unique is its accessibility,” they added.
“While there are highly competitive categories featuring purpose-built rally cars driven at racing speeds, you don’t need a race car – or even motorsport experience – to be part of it.”
Several entrant categories are available, with participants required to hold the appropriate Motorsport Australia licence, starting from $85 and available to purchase in the entry system.
The most accessible option is the one-day Prima Tour, where two people can complete the first four stages for $785 before enjoying a long-table lunch at Golding Wines in Lobethal.
Those ready to take on the full three days can enter the $2995 Main Tour, which is open to eligible road-registered cars. Helmets and roll cages are not required, although entrants must meet some basic clothing and vehicle requirements.
“The Main Tour category is all about the freedom of closed-road touring,” event organisers said.
“Nowhere in Australia is there a tour with such intense serpentine roads in such close proximity to a capital city and one with such a festive feel.”
Participants of the Prima Tour and the Main Tour run ahead of the Adelaide Rally competitors in packets, each with a tour leader who sets a swift and enjoyable pace using both sides of the road on narrow, twisting roads.
Main Tour vehicles are limited to 100kph, on the applicable closed road section, also known as a “stage”. This allows for spirited driving on the tight and technical roads chosen for the Rally course.
Those looking for more of a challenge can enter a faster tour called the Spirit Tour that is limited to 120kph, or progressively competitive categories, which require additional safety equipment. Vehicle preparation and licences which can be viewed here.
Whether entrants arrive in a classic car, an exotic supercar or an eligible everyday vehicle, organisers say the social side of the rally remains a major part of its appeal.
“The spirit of camaraderie is embedded in the Shannons Adelaide Rally,” they said.
The event includes a range of manufacturer, dealership and car club groups, including the AMG Mercedes Tour, BMW Mini Tour, Ferrari Club Tour, Glenelg BMW, Honda Tour, Hyundai Tour, Porsche Centre Tour, Porsche Club Tour, Solitaire Tour and Zagame Tour. Motorsport stars, sporting personalities and other notable drivers are also expected to appear among the field.
Spectators will have several chances to see the rally field across Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills, with designated viewing stages and free community events throughout the weekend.
The King William Road Street Party will display the full field on Saturday, October 17, before the action moves to Strathalbyn on Sunday for two town-centre stages and a lunch stop.
The rally will finish with the North Adelaide Finale on O’Connell and Tynte streets, where entrants will collect medals and category winners will be presented with trophies.
2026 Shannons Adelaide Rally
When: October 16 to 18
Where: Across SA
For event details and the entry form, click here.
