A vast network of gravel roads crisscrosses the Bergrivier tourism region and Swartland surrounds is perfect for cyclists.
From the economic hub of Piketberg cyclists can explore the mountain bike mecca of Piket-Bo-Berg or grind along district road and jeep tracks to towns like Aurora, Goedverwacht and Redelinghuys. Accommodation options abound too, as do cyclist-friendly restaurants, farm stalls and coffee shops.
“We are exceptionally excited about our new Piketberg Mountain Gravel Road Circuit,” Nomonde Ndlangisa, CEO of the Bergrivier Tourism Organisation, stated. “It’s a great addition to the Bergrivier’s ‘adventure capital’ product portfolio and will bring much needed exposure to the scenic towns of Redelinghuys, Aurora and Goedverwacht. They are, small, rural towns that fall in the Bergrivier region, and which offer a massive array of activities and adventures to suite all ages, interests and budgets.
“This beautiful area boasts some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, mountain landscapes and open spaces.
“Mountain and gravel biking is becoming ever more popular, and those that follow the sport are increasingly looking for exciting locations, experiences and local adventures in off-the-beaten-track destinations. The new cycling route, situated just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, certainly delivers.”
The region has long been famed for its single-track, thanks to events like the Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge and The U-stage race. But with the growth in gravel riding, locally and internationally, the dusty back roads of the Bergrivier have begun to draw riders in greater numbers.
The Piketberg Mountain Gravel Road Circuit aims to provide an easy-to-follow route which gravel grinders and bikepackers can ride as an introduction to cycling in the area. Afterwards, the open road awaits, with Bergrivier Tourism happy to point cyclists in the direction of adventure.
The four-day circuit takes in 285 km of riding, with 3 900 m of elevation gain, and is divided into manageable chunks.
The 98 km final day is even designed as an optional extra, dropping the total distance to just 187 km over a long-weekend.
Starting in Aurora, 3 km from Piketberg, the three-day loop ends back in the village named after the Roman goddess of dawn. Adding a fourth day will take riders to Piketberg, from where a comfortable 70-minute drive, down the N7, will take cyclists back to the urban heart of Cape Town. As such the Piketberg Mountain Gravel Road Circuit is readily accessible to the vast majority of Western Cape based riders.
More info on the Piketberg Mountain Gravel Road Circuit is available at either piketberg.bergriviertourism.co.za or on www.mtbroutes.co.za.
