The diversity in the Overberg’s landscapes and the scenery is astounding, especially if you traverse inland from the relatively flat coastal region to the majestic Cape fold mountains.
This overnight bikepacking trip runs from the coastal region commonly known as Blombos through Riversdale to the Langeberg’s foothills near Grootvadersbosch, and passes through Slangrivier and Vermaaklikheid on the way back. The route of 165km is almost entirely gravel, with a mere 10km of asphalt. Most of the gravel roads are well maintained, with one or two corrugated sections. Perfectly suited for a gravel-specific bike setup. You can also start/end the loop in Stilbaai on the coast.
Day 1: Blombos to Noukrans Boskamp via Riversdale – 97km | +1840m
The first couple of kilometres from Blombos starts with open rolling hills, giving way to a long (20km) false flat section that takes you to Riversdale. A coffee stop at the Old Jail Coffee House is a must. Fill up with water before leaving Riversdale as the section to Noukrans is remote. After leaving Riversdale the route hugs the foothills of the Langeberg, passing the Korintepoort dam. You will struggle to find a flat road section, with frequent steep ups and downs. The views and downhill sections are worth all the climbing!
Noukrans Boskamp is situated on a working dairy farm bordering the Grootvadersbosch Nature reserve. The campsite is located beneath old oak trees on the banks of the Duiwenhoksriver. The campsite is well maintained with good ablution facilities.
Day 2: Noukrans Boskamp to Blombos via Slangrivier – 68 km | + 880m
After crossing the low water bridge over the Duiwenhoksrivier, a steady climb will take you to the highest point of the day. After which it is all downhill to the next low water bridge over the Duiwenhoksriver. The climb out of Vermaaklikheid is deceivingly long, especially if it is hot. The last couple of kilometres is easy rolling hills.
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Dip your toes into multi-day adventures with this three-day bikepacking route through the Overberg region – from Stellenbosch over Franschhoek pass, across the interior and down to the coast through the Hemel en Aarde valley.
3 DAYS | ⇔ 318 km | + 3800m | ≡ Tar/ Gravel
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Transverse the diverse beauty of the Overberg from the rolling coastal plains to challenging mountain passes on this all gravel bikepacking route.
OVERNIGHT | ⇔ 165 km (loop) | ≡ Gravel
