South Africa Mountain Bike Tour

Our guides will pick you up from Cape Town International Airport. After a bike fitting and safety briefing, set out for our first ride in Jonkershoek, a nature reserve occupying a dramatic valley near the major wine destination of Stellenbosch. Some say that South African mountain biking was born right here, since the trails in this mountainous preserve launched the sport’s popularity. It’s an ideal place to get your sea legs on the region’s mix of dirt roads and thrilling singletracks, followed by an even deeper dive into the MTB scene at a popular cyclist café where we’ll have our post-ride lunch—they even have a bike wash! Right next door is our hotel, an iconic example of Cape Dutch architecture built in 1692 and one of the most luxurious hotels in South Africa. Settle in as we celebrate our first of three nights at this Stellenbosch wine estate.

Meals: Lunch / Dinner
Destination: Jonkershoek
Accomplished: 15 miles / 25 km, elevation gain: 1,076 feet / 328 meters
Accommodation: Lanzerac

Today we explore Stellenbosch, discovered by Simon van der Stel when he first arrived in South Africa—the farm he built on the Western Cape was the beginning of the oak tree-peppered paradise the area has become. It’s one of the country’s first Dutch settlements and retains a distinctive European identity, full of shady tree-lined streets, whitewashed buildings, and flourishing restaurants and galleries. Just outside of town we’ll hit the trails of Bottelary Hills conservancy, an immaculate network of mountain biking routes connecting nearly 40 local vineyards. Great pains were taken to preserve the native flora, including fruit orchards, lilies, and fynbos (a type of vegetation unique to South Africa). Our ride rewards us with views all the way to Table Mountain, and we’ll stop for lunch at our friend’s winery for an introduction to Pinotage—a distinctly South African grape variety. After, hop in the van and head back to the hotel for a restful afternoon or complete the loop with some stellar single track riding. Spend tonight on the town during dinner in Stellenbosch.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Bottlerary Hills, Stellenbosch
Accomplished: 20 miles / 33 km, elevation gain: 915 feet / 279 meters
Longer Option: 36 miles / 58 km, elevation gain: 2,211 feet / 674 meters
Accommodation: Lanzerac

After breakfast we’ll ride to Boschendal winery via bike trails beloved not only by local cyclists, but also the pros—in fact, Boschendal has played host to South Africa’s Cape Epic mountain bike race more than once. Today’s ride lends itself well to every type of cyclist, so get in plenty of miles or take it easy and treat yourself to another glass of wine (or wyn in Afrikaans), if you prefer: we’ll explore the country’s complicated history as we pedal through a landscape of pristine manors juxtaposed with humble agricultural villages, following single tracks through the vineyards to arrive at Boschendal. In the werf, or farmyard, we’ll have an incredible al fresco lunch showcasing local ingredients. Tonight is another epicurean experience at a wine estate that’s recognized as one of the best in the Cape Winelands. Chef Caroline Coetzee’s food is complemented by local artwork on display in the restaurant—an all-around showcase of the talents of the rainbow nation.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Helshoogte, Kylemore, Boschendal
Accomplished: 18 miles / 30 km, elevation gain: 1,063 feet / 324 meters
Longer Option: 28 miles / 45 km, elevation gain: 2,893 feet / 882 meters
Accommodation: Lanzerac

As we pedal out of Stellenbosch this morning, we may cross paths with the South African pheasants called tarentaal as they scurry noisily through the vines or eagles manning their posts, protecting the vineyards from predators. Early European settlers realized the appeal of these peaceful foothills and their exquisite terroir, and the countryside remains some of the most coveted real estate on the continent. Just ask golfer Ernie Els, who scooped up a Western Cape winery where we’ll have lunch after a string of estate tastings. This afternoon, check into our final hotel: the luxurious Tintswalo Atlantic, located at the base of Table Mountain National Park. Dine at the hotel restaurant and soak up the sea views, or head into Hout Bay for dinner on your own.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Destinations: Somerbosch, Hout Bay
Accomplished: 19 miles / 32 km, elevation gain: 1,430 feet / 436 meters
Accommodation: Tintswalo Atlantic

Enjoy a laid-back morning before hopping on the bike for a final day of cycling. The road to Chapman’s Peak is considered the country’s most beautiful byway, so our ride over the peninsula includes plenty of photo stops. Hop off the bike at an informal South African settlement, where we’ll get to know a few local personalities as we refuel. After one final climb up Suikerbossie Pass, descend into Clifton Beach and dig into just-caught seafood while overlooking the white sands and water. Choose to take it easy on the beach for the rest of the afternoon, or keep riding back to Tintswalo. For our final night, it’s sundowners and dinner on the deck as we toast to our wonderful week together.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Camps Bay, Chapman’s Peak
Accomplished: 19 miles / 31 km, elevation gain: 2,578 feet / 786 meters
Longer Option: 29 miles / 47 km, elevation gain: 3,483 feet / 1,062 meters
Accommodation: Tintswalo Atlantic

Spend your final morning in South Africa as you wish, whether you prefer to sleep in late or take a short hike to get your endorphins for the day. Before our guides bid you farewell, transfer with them to Cape Town International Airport or right into the city for those adding additional days to their trip.

Meals: Breakfast
Destinations: Kalkbay