Kluitjieskraal MTB Route (Closest City/Town: Wolseley)

Western Cape - Breede River Valley

Kluitjieskraal MTB Route

CLOSEST TOWN > Wolseley

TRAIL DESTINATION > Watervalberge

DISTANCE > 41km

GRADING > Intermediate

OVERVIEW

This challenging route is mainly on gravel road, with arduous climbs along loose shale and rock. Hectic downhill hairpins mean you need to keep your wits about you, but wonderful views and a spectacular waterfall are sure to keep you coming back for more.

On your bike

The route starts along a fairly flat section through pine plantations, before the 6km climb to Watervalberg, with splendid views over the Wolseley Valley.

After the summit, descend into the Suurbrak Valley where you are bound to bump into baboons and the odd buck or snake. The route through this low-lying valley is flat and fast.

Near the end of the valley, turn right to cross the Watervalberg once again. The route is marked and the going fast, but from here it starts to get quite technical and bumpy. Cross the river above the waterfall, then loop onto the high mountain slopes for scenic views of Tulbagh.

Stay on the contour path through the plantations along the speedy home run. Although the river water is drinkable, it is a good idea to take enough water and food as this is a hard ride.

Off the bike

The region is accessed via four scenic and historic passes; the Nuwekloof, Bainskloof, Du Toitskloof and Mitchell's Passes. All of these make for interesting country drives or tarmac rides.

Farming is the mainstay of the area, with excellent fruit, vegetables, wine, olives, wheat, meat and dairy products produced here. With its hiking trails, biking routes, historic sites, art galleries, potters, crafters, wine tasting, restaurants and accommodation establishments, Wolseley makes a great weekend getaway.

CONTACT:

For local MTB info: Contact Demars Bike Shop

tel: +27 23 231 0063

Website: www.mtoecotourism.co.za/kluitjieskraal.htm

GPS: 33°25’33.5”S 19°10’49.7”E

FAST FACTS

GRADING:

Intermediate

DURATION:

About 2–3 hours

CONFIGURATION :

Circular, 41km

START POINT:

Kluitjieskraal Forestry Station

TERRAIN:

Mainly gravel and gnarly jeep track; river crossings

MAP:

From Demars Bike Shop, Vincent Street, Wolseley

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Permit from Demars Bike Shop and Takeaways (023) 231 0063

FACILITIES:

No ablution facilities, cell phone reception intermittent

BEWARE OF:

Lumber trucks

kluitjieskraal-map

HOW TO GET THERE

Take the N1 from Cape Town and then the R43, direction Ceres. Wolseley is approximately 120km from Cape Town.

BEST TIME OF YEAR

A year-round destination; icy winters.