Cape Winelands Cycling

Weather in the Western Cape Coastal region is mild Mediteranean. Summer – mild pleasant evenings, can be very hot and dry during the day in late Summer Winter – very cold evenings, cold to mild days Rainfall (mostly in winter) can exceed 1 500 mm (60 inches ) per year.

Franschhoek is 70 km from Cape Town International Airport. Private transfers and rates) available on request.

Wearing a helmet while cycling is mandatory and bicycles need to be equipped with basic repair kit. These items can be provided with bicycles rented via us. Bring your own if you prefer so. If you decide to bring your own, a MTB is the best choice (not a road bike or hybrid). 

It is important to be comfortable when cycling. The best is to wear thin layers of clothing. Fast drying and hard-wearing synthetic fabrics are ideal as a base layer. These allow your skin to breathe and wick the moisture away from your skin to the next layer, avoiding the chill which cotton T-shirts can cause.  A thin fleece or sweatshirt is ideal as the next layer. Also take a lightweight waterproof jacket (breathable and windproof material is best). Sport shoes are fine for cycling and for when you stop off to visit places on foot. For your daily needs, you are advised to have a day-bag, a plastic bag to line your day-pack (to protect the contents from rain), sunglasses, sun block, a water bottle, plastic picnic box (for transporting lunches), first-aid kit, camera and an extra plastic bag for litter.

Our detailed route notes and -description allow you to ride self-guided and at your own pace amid splendid scenery while we transport your luggage. As soon as we have finalised your booking we will specify your hotel schedule. (We are using different hotels/guest houses from time to time). The tailor-made Route guide include hotel details, route notes, maps and GPS references. Going self-guided is simple and convenient with our Route guide. It allows you to set out when you like, stop where you want and visit sites en route that are of interest to you. Our notes include information on monuments, places of interest along the way and suggested stops for lunch, wine tasting etc. The Route guide will be given to you on the date of your arrival. We can provide a file which can be imported to a gps or computer for navigation on a cellphone or gps device.

Overall rating of Cape Winelands Cycling is Easy/Moderate. You do not need to be ultra-fit but certainly able to cycle about 50 km per day and be able to cope with undulating countryside and some hills. See Cycling grades Day 1 – arrival : Day 2 – Easy : Day 3 – Easy/Moderate : Day 4 – Easy/Moderate : Day 5 – Easy/Moderate

Your trip can be extended or amended to include additional activities. The costs of these options are not included in the rate of the standard trip. Available on request.

Cycling

Transfer can be arranged to Hermanus or Cape Town for an additional cycling in a coastal environment.

Walking

Additional days can be booked to explore Franschhoek Village and the historic Stellenbosch town on foot if there is not enough time to discover the unique history, culture and heritage while cycling.

Stay at some of the finest hotels and guesthouses in the area and visit restaurants serving mouth-watering international cuisine. A variety of different establishments have been selected – all subject to availability. Non availability may result in a rate amendment.

The best months are from beginning of October to end of April (high season). Start on any day. Reserve early to obtain the best rooms. The route is also available during low season at a reduced rate. Please contact us for details.

It is recommended that appropriate holiday insurance is arranged with cover for illness, injury, and loss or damage to luggage. This insurance should also cover the possibility of any cancellations.

Comments by guests who have experienced a self-guided walking/hiking holiday offered by Trails and Travel in South Africa- “Overall, the holiday was invigorating- You certainly went out of your way to make the whole time memorable- We are recommending it to our walking community in the States- Fantastic walks, wines and accommodation” For details go to Reviews

The Cape Winelands Cycling holiday is an opportunity to experience breathtaking Cape Winelands scenery, world class cuisine and accommodation. To read more about the area, go to: Cape Winelands (Somerset West and Stellenbosch) Franschhoek

You will visit award-winning wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Somerset West. The estates are famous for their wine and unique offerings. Delaire Graff Estate in the Stellenbosch valley was placed 14th on The World’s Best Vineyards list and awarded the Best Vineyard in Africa in 2020.