The 36One MTB Challenge Training Package

Today we venture out and cycle one of the many specially built single track venues. Simonsberg is well known for the flowing nature of the trails and breathtaking views of the wine valley below and Table Mountain in the distance. Here we find trails designed to suit all levels of rider, with well-planned contours making the ascent relatively easy. You can chat with your guide on the day. (B/S) KM (depending on the route chosen) 

Today is the start of our back road cycling. We leave Stellenbosch by bike and hit the first of two passes, Helshoogte which connects Stellenbosch to Franschoek, and the iconic Franschoek Pass. We also cycle around the largest freshwater dam supplying Cape Town, Theewaterskloof. The wind can sometimes blow off the water making things a bit more interesting. But as the saying goes “where there is no mountain to climb, there is wind” We finish our first day in the village of Greyton, tucked away in the Riviersonderend Mountains. (B/S) ± 110km/1450m

After a good breakfast, we head out from our accommodation by bike and follow the base of the Reviersonderend Mountains with undulating gravel roads and lovely views of the surrounding grain growing farms. As we get closer to Swellendam, we start to roughly follow the Breede River. Tonight's accommodation is a comfortable guest house and one which is used by cyclists moving through the area. We spend two nights here. (B/S) ± 112km/1300m

Today we take a rest from our long-distance cycling and hit the trails. We do a short transfer with our vehicle, the area we will be cycling in is a conservancy and dedicated to community upliftment and conservation. There are several trails available to ride, this we can discuss at the start. No matter which trail we do, we will be cycling through some of the countries most productive dairy farms and offers spectacular views of the Langeberg Mountains. There are a few interesting fences crossing to negotiate. Once we are all powered out, we load our bikes and drive to a nearby farm stall for a deserved lunch. (B/S) ± 25-39km/75m–900m

This morning the first 30km is tarmac. We then get into the backcountry and the rolling hills. “Heartbreak Hill” will get your pump working but then the downhill is a blast as we enter the Duiwenhoks valley as it follows a fairly flat terrain and the flow of the river. Our day ends in Riversdale and tonight's accommodation is a very comfortable guest house. (B/S) ± 90km/1500m

We depart by bike after a hearty breakfast. The first 20 odd kilometres is tarmac taking us up and over the Garcia Pass. We then hit the gravel and follow undulating country roads through the baron landscape of the Little Karoo. This succulent based landscape turns into a kaleidoscope of colour shortly after the first rains have fallen. There is a chance of spotting the different antelope that live here: kudu, oryx, baboon and klipspringer to name a few. After a short stop in Van Wyksdorp, we continue our cycle to our lodge which is hidden from the outside world and an oasis in the true form. We spend two nights here... (B/S)± 75km/1120m

Today we rest and relax our bones. You can go for a hike on the property or just relax. During the late afternoon and early morning hours, there is a good chance of spotting giraffe, zebra, baboon, and bushbuck when they come to drink or attack the flowerbed. (B)

Unfortunately, we need to leave our oasis. Today’s cycle is short and sweet (most of today's cycle is on the 36One route)  and starts by cycling a gentle hill of about 5km following the less used farm roads as they wind down and over the Gouritz River. The view of both the Swartberg and the Langeberg Mountains will keep you fascinated. This desolate area will keep you wondering how anybody can live out here. We load our bikes after another long but gentle climb and do a transfer to the start of the Garden Route - George. We spend the night in a comfortable guest house. (B/S) ± 50km/915m

After a delicious breakfast, we head up and over the Outeniqua Mountain via the Montagu Pass, dating back to 1844. This pass still has parts of the original stone walls, an old Tollhouse, and spectacular views. Our route then continues through the dusty Perdekloof as we wind our way back into the Little Karoo with the majestic Swartberg Mountain as a backdrop. Our cycling route ( part of today's cycle is on the 36One route) ends at our comfortable lodge on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn, we spend two nights in this stylish lodge.  (B/S/D) +-57km/930m

With the 36One MTB challenge around the corner, we need to rest and recover. Today is the perfect place. You can use the pool, sauna, and or Jacuzzi. (B/D)

We have a late start to the day and a relaxing day. After breakfast we do a short transfer into the ostrich capital Oudtshoorn and visit some of the highlights (optional) There are several wildlife orientated options which you can discuss with your guide at the time. Today we use to prep our equipment and clean the bikes, not to mention the taming of those nerves. We take up our base and spend the next three nights in our comfortable guest house. (B) (Those interested in a short spin on the bike are most welcome)