Stage 1 – Somerset West – Stellenbosch
54km – 1850m
Stage one is not to be taken lightly, but is just oh so worth it, winding its way through the incredible Helderberg trails with epic views over false bay, and Table Mountain in the distance before the compulsory portage takes you over the spine of the Hottentots Holland range, and drops you into the Mecca of Mountainbiking that is Jonkershoek. Snaking your way along what can only be called epic tracks, finally reaching the finish line at the Jonkershoek gate, where a light lunch awaits, before a short transfer to your overnight accommodation at Val de Vine.
Overnight: Val de Vine – Stellenbosch
Stage 2 – Stellenbosch – Stellenbosch
69km – 1530m
Stage two is a loop, so no need to pack up your room this morning. Starting at the hotel, you will take on an loop that is over 80% singletrack, enjoying some of the absolutely world class trail network that the Stellenbosch area is known for. The loop will take you through the Eden forests, then across Coetzenburg up along Helshoogte onto the Banhoek trails, and then returning via Idas Valley, back across town, and finishing right where you started, at Val de Vine, for some much deserved rest and relaxation.
Overnight: Val de Vine – Stellenbosch
Stage 3 – Greyton – Hermanus
85km – 893m
Stage three might be the longest stage overall, but it is far less technically challenging than the previous two, which means you will have more time to enjoy the absolutely fantastic views. A 60 minute shuttle after breakfast will get you to the start of todays stage, in the picturesque village of Greyton. From there a mixture of gravel roads, jeep track and some superb hand built singletrack will take you via the Klein River valley, into Stanford where a ferry will escort you across the lagoon, before tackling the last section of the stage into Hermanus, and a well deserved rest and a post ride celebration overlooking Walker Bay.
Overnight: Misty Waves Hotel, Hermanus