Western Cape - Breede River Valley

[ ROUTE NAME - Nuy Winery Routes]

CLOSEST TOWN »     Worcester    
DISTANCE »     19.2 km
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GRADING »    
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[ OVERVIEW ]

An adventurous there-and-back trail into the wilds of the Waaikloof Gorge. Expect sections of sand, a scattering of devil thorns and getting wet on half a dozen river crossings during winter, this one will appeal to you. There are a number of other route options except for Waaikloof, and these offer rollicking rides within the hills of the Nuy Wine Farm. It is again a good idea to use both tyre liners and slime before heading out on the trail.

On your bike

1) Waaikloof Return Route
From the winery tar road, head into the hills along the Werda Valley dirt road, also sign-posted as the Gecko Hiking route. This road passes the winery staff accommodation and passes through vineyards before you turn right (1.2 km) along a climb into the koppies. Ascend into the neck and follow the road as it curves left before dropping down to the river (3.7 km).

Just before you reach the river, turn right at an old rusty gate and stick to the right of the water course. It is quite sandy in places, but not so you have to ever get off and push. After about one and a half km, you will start entering the stunning Waaikloof gorge, with rugged cliffs rising up on both sides (5.2 km). You will also get to your first river crossing; these could be wheel-deep at least, depending on rain higher up the valley.

The route gets rougher as you head further up the valley, with regular river crossings every half a kilometre or so. The scenery is stunning though, and we spotted several black eagles on our ride. After 5.8 km, you will reach Villa da Werda, a hideaway cottage right at the top of the gorge. This is the turn-around point, so enjoy the ride back.

Off the bike :
Lots of hiking and other activities in the Worcester area, with the Brandvlei Dam a popular spot for water sport. Good and affordable wines at Nuy itself, so make sure you stock up.

RATED BY : Jacques Marais - April 2007

[ FAST FACTS ]

GRADING: Moderate with technical river crossings

DURATION: Depends on your expertise

CONFIGURATION : Return Routes with other options

START POINT: Nuy Winery

TERRAIN: Renosterveldt on the slopes of Kwadousberg (Du Toitskloof mountains)

MAP: None available (use Topo 3319DA Nuy)

MORE INFORMATION:

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Access to be arranged through Nuy Winery

FACILITIES: Various accommodation options at Nuy; wine sales; some cell reception

BEWARE OF: Gorge may flood during rainy season