Slanghoek MTB Trail

About Slanghoek MTB Trail

Where: Slanghoek wine estate, near Rawsonville
Level: moderate
Type of route: varied
Best: any time of year

The Slanghoek MTB Trail is set in the Slanghoek Valley with the mountains of the same name as its backdrop. The 13 km route is predominantly on gravel road and jeep track, with some stream crossings, game sightings and particularly notable views.

The 13 km trail is not difficult - perfect for beginners and families - but includes an additional 4 km loop with challenges and technical bits for the more experienced rider (including steep climbs and downhills).

Slanghoek hosts the Mountain2Mountain MTB Classic , an annual event that includes a 33 km and 63 km route, rated as one of the toughest races in the Western Cape – rocks, rivers, swamps, sandy patches – technical terrain some riders do not anticipate, given the ease of the 13 km MTB trail.

But what riders of the trail rate most highly is the scenery and the peace of riding through vineyards in the shadow of mountains.

Slanghoek trail begins and ends at the wine cellar where riders register for the route before heading out (to avoid disappointment, get there during cellar hours – 8am to 5pm during the week, and Saturdays between 10am and 1pm). Riders under the age of 10 need to have an adult rider with them.

Make a day of it and order a picnic basket, or take along your fishing rod and bird book. Nearby is the Goudini Spa, for those who enjoy natural hot water springs.

No helmet – no ride. Leave No Trace.