All Cycling Holidays

Western Cape Off-Road Cycling Adventure

Western Cape Off-Road Cycling Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary off-road cycling adventure through South Africa's captivating landscapes, where serene country gravel roads provide an opportunity to deeply engage with the local culture, sights, and nature. This fully guided and supported multi-day excursion ensures an unforgettable cycling holiday.

Starting from the lively coastal hub of Plettenberg Bay, your journey traverses farmlands, nature reserves, and charming towns, culminating in the renowned winelands town of Stellenbosch. Across seven days, conquer a challenging 700km route, ascending over 10,000 meters, an achievement that will leave you exhilarated and amazed at every pedal stroke. Should the path become arduous, our support vehicle is readily available to comfortably transport you and your bike.

Each day reveals a new destination: from Plettenberg Bay to Karatara, Oudtshoorn, Groenfontein, Riversdale, Swellendam, Greyton, and finally, Stellenbosch. Throughout this guided cycling trip, immerse yourself in South Africa's diverse beauty, from the invigorating ocean breezes to the panoramic vistas and the captivating calls of wildlife amidst the aromatic fynbos.

This adventure isn't just about off-road cycling; it's a sensory journey, providing a glimpse into the vibrant local lifestyle and offering an immersive experience in South Africa's rich culture and natural splendor.

 

DAY 1

Upon arriving at George Airport, you'll be whisked away on a 2.5-hour journey through the picturesque Garden Route to Plettenberg. This drive is a highlight of South African scenic routes, showcasing diverse landscapes from quaint towns and unspoiled beaches to dense forests and towering mountains. En route, there's a chance to visit intriguing sites like the Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary, offering insights into the lives of these majestic creatures, or test your wits at Plett Puzzle Park with its 3D maze and puzzles.

Your first night's stay is at the charming Redford House. Here, you'll be hosted by Colleen Noble, a figure reminiscent of South African royalty. Colleen, whose late husband Clive was the chief medical officer for the national rugby team, the Springboks, has a deep connection to rugby - a sport revered like a national religion in South Africa. Colleen, a Psychology PhD, set her career aside to raise four children and develop Redford House. You'll stay in Noble House, a spacious building with large bedrooms and a lounge, offering stunning views of the Tsitsikamma mountains and surrounding nature reserve, lake, and gardens. Breakfast at Redford House is a hearty affair, served in the farmhouse kitchen or on the patio overlooking the pool.

Redford House also serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. The Robberg Nature Reserve, a short distance away, offers hiking opportunities along a scenic peninsula where you can spot seals, whales, and dolphins. Alternatively, Birds of Eden, the world's largest dome aviary, allows for an immersive experience among hundreds of free-flying birds. This first day of your tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and engaging activities, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

 

DAY 2

Embark on an exhilarating 112km cycling journey from Plettenberg to Karatara, traversing tar and dirt roads with a total elevation gain of 1946m over six hours. Your efforts are rewarded with thrilling downhill rides amidst the chance of spotting elusive elephants in their indigenous forest habitat. This route offers a diverse landscape of forest, dairy farms, and country roads.

Arriving at Teniqua Treetops for the night, you’ll discover a unique accommodation experience within the Knysna forest. Here, suites are perched 2-6 meters above ground on stilts, offering stunning views of the Karatara Gorge or the encompassing forest. Each suite features a forest view bathroom with a large corner bath and a private deck. For dinner, enjoy the DIY menu options suitable for cooking over coals or in a microwave, and the licensed bar for drinks.

Teniqua Treetops, set in 36 hectares of natural paradise and partially off-grid, also includes a petting zoo, art gallery, two forest trails, and a river walk leading to the Karatara river and rock pools. Spend your night in this serene self-catering retreat, immersed in nature.

For the adventurous, nearby attractions in Karatara include Gerickes Point, offering a beach with stunning rock formations, tidal pools, and marine life ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Scarab Village, a local craft market, offers unique products, souvenirs, and a café for a relaxing break. Additionally, the Garden Route Trail Park presents more trails for running and mountain biking, with bike and helmet rentals available.

 Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

 

DAY 3

Today's journey from Karatara to Oudtshoorn spans 122km, transitioning from verdant forests to the striking semi-arid Klein Karoo. Prepare for the breathtaking Montagu Pass, challenging yet rewarding with its expansive views and lush ferns. Descending the pass, the valley's meandering vistas unfold impressively. Your destination, De Zeekoe Guest Farm, sits near Victorian Oudtshoorn, encircled by the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains. This floral haven, part of the world’s 17 biodiversity "hot spots," showcases three intersecting flower kingdoms.

De Zeekoe's private Oudtshoorn Cottages, close to the main house, offer stunning mountain views and rich birdlife, with 162 species recorded. Each cottage, harmonizing with the Karoo landscape, includes a mini-bar, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, air conditioning, bathrobes, slippers, and a private deck. Your stay includes a breakfast, energizing you for the next day’s explorations.

Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital, offers insights into these unique birds. You can purchase ostrich-related products and try various ostrich dishes, from steaks to omelettes. The Cango Caves, Africa’s largest show cave system, are a must-visit. Marvel at underground formations like stalactites and stalagmites on guided tours. The standard tour is family-friendly, covering the main chambers, while the adventure tour, suited for thrill-seekers, involves more challenging exploration through narrow passages.

 Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

 

DAY 4

Today, embark on a stimulating 78km cycling adventure from Oudtshoorn to Groenfontein, spanning 5 hours with a 1090m elevation gain. This route promises sightings of meerkats and giraffes amidst the red stone hills' striking hues. Your destination is The Retreat, a quaint Victorian farmhouse nestled in the scenic Groenfontein Valley Conservancy, adjacent to the Swartberg Nature Reserve. Here, the splendid Swartberg mountains form a majestic backdrop.

Your hosts, Grant and Marie, excel in Klein Karoo hospitality, ensuring a warm, homely atmosphere. The Retreat, devoid of cell reception and television, is an idyllic escape powered by solar energy and generator backup. Evening mountain breezes guarantee restful sleep, with mosquito-free rooms allowing open windows. Mornings begin with the scent of fresh coffee and a sumptuous continental breakfast prepared by Marie, savoured on the terrace.

Your Garden Room, secluded from the main house, offers a tranquil setting with private mountain-view terraces. Included in your stay is a substantial country breakfast, completing this unique, serene experience.

 Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

 

DAY 5

On the second day of your tour, you'll travel 78km from Groenfontein to Riversdale, experiencing the enchanting Calitzdorp and vast ostrich farms. Your journey leads to the majestic mountains, culminating in an ascent of the Rooiberg Pass. Although challenging, the 11km climb rewards with breathtaking hillside views. Reaching the summit promises an exhilarating descent towards Van Wyksdorp.

Next, you'll cross Garcia Pass, named after a pioneering trader, entering the cool climate near the Langeberg Mountain range. Descending, you're welcomed by the sight of Riversdale, under the “Sleeping Beauty” mountain.

Your accommodation, De Doornkraal Vinotel, offers a luxurious stay, complete with award-winning dining.

In Riversdale, rich in history and culture, numerous attractions await. Visit Riversdale Old Jail, now a unique flea market, coffee shop, and art gallery, where you can explore old jail cells and enjoy local crafts and food. The Julius Gordon Africana Centre offers a dive into local heritage, displaying various artifacts including a unique 19th-century invention. For nature enthusiasts, Korentepoort Dam is perfect for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying the local wildlife. Finally, the NGK Church, dating back to 1859, showcases stunning Gothic Revival architecture and is a national monument.

This leg of the tour blends challenging outdoor adventures with cultural exploration, offering an enriching and diverse experience.

 Meal Inclusions: Breakfast Only

 

DAY 6

Today, your scenic 100km ride from Riversdale to Swellendam will span about 5 hours. Initially, you'll tackle some invigorating hills near Riversdale, offering both challenge and thrill. As you near Heidelberg, the breathtaking Duiwenhoks valley unfolds, providing a gentle cycling stretch leading up to the formidable Heartbreak Hill. Conquering this climb rewards you with the serene Grootvadersbosch area. You'll then glide down to the quaint village of Suurbraak, immersing yourself in its rich history and culture.

The final leg to Swellendam introduces you to its distinctive Victorian colonial architecture. This farming town, split from the Cape Colony in 1743, now thrives as a tourist hub. It boasts opportunities for wine tasting, hiking, cycling, and embracing a serene, unplugged lifestyle. Your night's stay is at the luxurious Fazenda, a secluded forest haven in the Langeberg mountains. Its opulent cabins offer the perfect setting to unwind and rejuvenate.

For the adventurous, options abound from mountain hiking, mushroom foraging, to harvesting organic produce. In the evening, experience Swellendam's culinary best at the renowned Field and Fork restaurant.

 Meal Inclusions: Breakfast only

 

DAY 7

Today, your cycling tour progresses from Riversdale to the idyllic village of Greyton, covering a scenic 109 km stretch. This segment, known for its relaxed pace, offers breathtaking views of the picturesque landscapes and the Sonderend River. Greyton, your destination, is celebrated for its exceptional cuisine and locally brewed craft beer, adding a gourmet touch to your journey.

In Greyton, you'll be indulging in the luxurious country hospitality of Hemelsbreed Farm. This tranquil retreat, managed by the hospitable Christo and Estelle van Loggerenberg, sits at the foothills of the Sonderend mountain range. The farm, after undergoing a meticulous restoration, presents a beautifully renovated farmhouse and two charming farm cottages, creating a serene getaway from urban life.

Your accommodation at the farm will be the exquisite Witpeer Cottage, which offers the comfort and independence of self-catering. This stay promises a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience in the heart of Greyton's natural beauty.

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast only

 

DAY 8

Today marks the culmination of your cycling journey, as you embark on a final, exhilarating 109km ride from Greyton to Stellenbosch, expected to last approximately 6 hours. The route, primarily smooth and tarred, offers an enchanting experience with the majestic Franschhoek Pass as a highlight. Weather conditions near Theewaterskloof Dam might present a challenge due to winds, so stay informed. A delightful pause in Franschhoek for coffee and pastries will rejuvenate you for the remaining journey.

Prepare to be enthralled by the historic Helshoogte Pass, dating back to 1854. Despite its steep ascent, the breathtaking vistas from the summit are a fitting reward. This picturesque path winds through quaint villages, lush fruit farms, and vibrant vineyards, showcasing the region's beauty.

Upon completing your ride, Gemoedsrus Farm awaits your arrival, offering a refreshing shower and the warm hospitality of Linda, the owner, and Letwin, the manager. The King room promises a serene and restful night, complete with a delicious breakfast. Your evening plans include dining at the exquisite Indochine at Delaire Graff, a gastronomic delight.

The farm, an impressive thatched mansion perched on a hill, provides a serene setting to unwind. After dinner, the sprawling veranda invites you to relax and soak in the awe-inspiring views of the Hottentot Holland mountains under a starlit sky, creating an idyllic conclusion to your day's adventure.

 Inclusions: Breakfast Only

 

DAY 9

Day 9 begins with a delightful breakfast at Gemoedsrus Farm, setting the perfect tone for your day. Following this, you have the freedom to choose to continue your adventure or to head home from Cape Town International which is about an hour away.

Whatever your choice, we can't wait to welcome you back for your next cycling adventure. Safe travels!

Holiday Information

Start Date 01-Mar-2025 9:00 am
End Date 09-Mar-2025 6:00 pm
Tour Operator English Safari CC t/a Where It All Began
Holiday Type Leader Included
Guide Price Per Person GBP£ £3000 - £4000
Difficulty Level Challenging
Terrain Off Road
Max Group Size 20
Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
Booking Link Book Here
Starting Location Redford House
Category Bicycle Touring

Starting Location

 

 

 

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