This challenging ride forms part of the annual Karoo-to-Coast Mountain Bike Race. Start off along the 26-km circular ride in the pretty town of Uniondale, then crank into the spectacular Uniondale Poort and onwards to Avontuur. The clearly marked route then bangs onto the Ou Wapad trail to return to Uniondale. The road surface varies from harsh to hectic and this, in conjunction with extreme temperatures during the summer months, makes this a testing ride. Carry ample water, slap on the sun protection and make sure you have a spare tube in your tubby bag. The diverse scenery of the Kammanassie and Kouga Mountains unfolds along the green valleys, scenic passes and dramatic rock formations with the vegetation varying from fynbos to arid Karoo succulents.

Off your bike

Kammanassie comes from the Khoisan language and means ‘Mountain of Water’. This rain-fed mountain sustains a small herd of endangered Cape mountain zebra. Day hikes within the Kammanassie Nature Reserve afford the opportunity to see the Zebra, as well as klipspringer, kudu, duiker, grysbok, rhebuck and of course baboons. Waterfalls provide relief from the summer heat and there is a self-catering guest house in Uniondale, a few kilometers from the reserve.

[ FAST FACTS ]

• GRADING: Difficult
  
  
• DURATION:
  
  
• CONFIGURATION : Circular route
  
  
• START POINT: Start in the town and follow the route markers
  
  
• TERRAIN: Various from harsh to hectic!
  
  
• MAP: Maps available from Uniondale Tourism
  
  
• MORE INFORMATION:
  
  
• ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Purchase R10 permit (price under review) from Uniondale Tourism (044) 752 1266
  
  
• FACILITIES: No ablutions, cell phone reception in Uniondale only
  
  
• BEWARE OF: Extreme temperatures in Summer