The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy Cycle Trail traverses a challenging route through conservancy farmland and the adjacent Grootvadersbosch Nature reserve. Vegetation along the route varies from dense montane forest and mountain fynbos to lowland Renosterveld and rural farmland on the Langeberg slopes. Start from the reserve office, immediately dropping down to cross the Duiwenhoks River before the first major climb kicks in. Follow the signs in a clockwise direction until you reach the rocky plateau road after approximately 3 km.

The next 5 km of jeep track consists mainly of coarse sandstone stretches, bush-cutter trail and patches of sand until, at the 8 km mark, the rough track spikes in and out of a series of brutal stream crossings. The real test comes when you hit the 3 km rock chute blasting down towards Grootvadersbosch Farm. Take extreme care along this section, as the lack of traction and hazardous terrain will test your down-riding skills to the max. After more than 2 km, cross the river into irrigated fields surrounding the old Grootvadersbosch homestead.

From here, follow the Farmland Section of the trail via Snelsetter and back to the Grootvadersbosch reserve office. Note that group sizes are limited to 12 riders, with a maximum of 24 bikes on the trail at any one time. The 58 km route is marketed as a two-day trail with possible stopovers at a variety of accommodation establishments set within the conservancy.

Off your bike

Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, situated within the Langeberg mountain ranges approximately 22 km north-west of Heidelberg, encompasses one of South Africa’s largest sections of remnant forest. The superb day hikes in the reserve winds through a mix of typical Knysna-style high forest and mountain fynbos with superb views from the higher trails. Exceptional birding will bring you face to face with Narina trogons, warblers and other canopy dwellers, while sightings of a range of mammals are possible. The nearby town of Swellendam, famous for its youngberries, historical architecture and quality wines, should be a definite stop on your itinerary.

CONTACT
Route information: Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Address: PO Box 109, Heidelberg, 6665
Telephone: 028 722 2412
Email: gvboschm@telkomsa.net

[ FAST FACTS ]

• GRADING: Intermediate, with some difficult sections
  
  
• DURATION: Various with the option of a 2 day route as well
  
  
• CONFIGURATION : Various
  
  
• START POINT: Start in Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
  
  
• TERRAIN: Dirt roads, jeep and single track
  
  
• MAP: Maps available at information centre in the reserve
  
  
• MORE INFORMATION:
  
  
• ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: R20 permit available from Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve (028) 722 2412
  
  
• FACILITIES: Camp site, ablutions, cell phone reception, no kiosk
  
  
• BEWARE OF: