Plan your mountain biking adventure
Explore the Thrilling Mountain Biking Trails of Somerset West and Stellenbosch
For mountain biking enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst the scenic landscapes of Somerset West and Stellenbosch in South Africa, a plethora of exhilarating mountain biking trails awaits. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a casual cyclist looking to explore the great outdoors.
Gareth and I enjoy mountain biking and we have ridden many of the trails in and around Somerset West and Stellenbosch. You can also now ride off-road (mostly) from our guesthouse all the way to Stellenbosch as most of the farmers have allowed mountain bike trails to run through their farms - how lucky are we?! Somerset West and Stellenbosch are also home to fantastic mountain bike trails for training for the ABSA CAPE EPIC and other mountain bike races such as the Wine2Wales race held around September / October each year.
Some of the best trails can be found here:
Most of these trails can be accessed by riding from straight from our guesthouse, depending on the distance you want to cover that day.
Helderberg Farm, Somerset West
- Location: Helderberg Farm, Klein Helderberg Rd, Somerset West
- Trail Highlights: Varied terrain with single tracks, jeep tracks, and technical sections. Stunning views of the Helderberg Mountains and vineyards.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Facilities: Parking, bike wash station, and refreshment facilities available.
Lourensford Mountain Bike Cub
-Location: Lourensford Wine Estate
-Trail Highlights: Over 100km of trails on this farm! Steep climbs, so great for training purposes. Very scenic and beautiful with flowing downhills. This farm is spectacular - you'll not want to miss it. You can buy day passes or pay a membership for a month or year.
-Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
-Facilities: Parking, restaurants, bike shop, bike washing facilities, shower facilities, pump track for kids
Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch
- Location: Jonkershoek Valley, Stellenbosch
- Trail Highlights: Diverse trails ranging from easy to challenging, including the popular Swartboskloof Trail. Scenic views of waterfalls, forests, and rugged terrain.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Facilities: Parking, picnic areas, and restroom facilities within the reserve.
G-Spot Trails, Somerset West
- Location: G-Spot Trails, Sir Lowry's Pass Road, Somerset West
- Trail Highlights: Purpose-built mountain biking trails with various loops catering to different skill levels. Technical descents, berms, and jumps.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Facilities: Bike rental, skills park, and café on-site.
Mont Marie Trails, Stellenbosch
- Location: Mont Marie Farm, Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch
- Trail Highlights: Scenic trails through vineyards and fynbos. Varied terrain with climbs, descents, and technical sections.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Facilities: Parking available at the farm and a restaurant at Mont Marie wine estate
Bottelary Hills Conservancy, Stellenbosch
- Location: Bottelary Hills, Stellenbosch
- Trail Highlights: Extensive network of trails through vineyards and conservation areas. Technical climbs, fast descents, and sweeping views of the Winelands.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Facilities: Various entry points with parking available.
Somerbosch trails
-Location: Somerbosch Wine Estate is also located in Stellenbosch and has lovely trails.
-Trail Highlights: The estate offers mountain biking trails on its grounds that cater for both beginners and intermediary mountain bikers.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediary (great if you only have an hour or two)
- Facilities: Parking is available, as well as a great restaurant for coffee, breakfast or lunch afterwards (depending on opening times).
Spier Wine Farm Trails
Location: Spier Wine Farm in the Stellenbosch area has also recently opened a 10, 15 or 20km mountain bike trail on their farm.
-Trail Highlights: The estate offers mountain biking trails on its grounds that caters mostly for beginners and intermediary mountain bikers. The trails are not technical, but good if you want to build in an extra loop from the Somerbosch trails to get some extra mileage in, or if you are a beginner.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediary (great if you only have an hour)
- Facilities: Parking is available, as well as a different restaurants for coffee, breakfast or lunch.
The Winelands Mountain Biking club is also a great source of information should you wish to explore more options.
Embark on a mountain biking escapade through the thrilling trails of Somerset West and Stellenbosch, where every twist and turn promises an exhilarating journey through the natural beauty and rugged terrain of South Africa's Western Cape. Whether you're seeking a heart-pounding challenge or a leisurely ride amidst stunning vistas, these mountain biking trails are sure to delight riders of all levels and offer an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Or contact us for more information, we'd be happy to help you plan your mountain biking adventure in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Share This Post