Shipwreck cycling is a self guided cycling tour exploring the the southern tip of Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.The rugged, windswept coastal plain is geographically striking, with a rich natural and cultural heritage
Overview
Shipwreck cycling is in the southern Overberg (“Over the mountain”) region of the Western Cape, South Africa. The route covers interesting villages with friendly people, unspoilt nature, unique fynbos and birds, stunning views and an interesting history of shipwrecks, fishermen and Khoikoi beach nomads.
Highlights
- The coastline is renowned for shipwrecks- more than 250 have been wrecked over time
- Sand plains, farmland, vineyards, wetlands and dunes and interesting rocky and ruggedly beautiful coast.
- Experience the Cape Agulhas National Park
- Unique flora- Strandveld Agulhas Plain
- Stunning views, beautiful beaches, pebble bays, rock pools.
- Historic features such as the second oldest working lighthouse and fishermen's village
- The town Bredasdorp and then charming historical villages such as Arniston, Struisbaai, L'Agulhas and Elim
Itinerary
Pricing approach
Pricing factors and what is included
- The published rate is an indicative price. It will be confirmed on request. The following pricing factors will be considered: standard or superior accommodation, room sharing or single, group size, extra nights, transfers, bicycle rent, guiding and other services.. A minimum of 2 people per group. Twenty percent deposit and the balance 6 weeks before trip.
- The following items are included:
- Accommodation in selected accommodation plus breakfast
- Guesthouse to guesthouse luggage transfers along the route
- Detailed Route directions
- Information about the area
Not included
- Items not listed above, eg
- Transport to and from Bredasdorp
- Other lunches, snacks, drinks with meals
- Bicycle rent
FAQ's
The region has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The climate is extremely mild, with no temperature or rainfall extremes. According to South African National Parks, the mean annual air temperature is 15°C, while the annual rainfall varies between 400- 600mm, with 60 – 70% of the precipitation occurring between May and October. Sea temperatures average between 21°C in summer and 14°C in winter. The region is the coldest during June when the mercury drops to 7°C on average during the night. Prevailing winds blow from the southeast in the summer and the northwest in the winter.
For international visitors:
Fly to Cape Town International airport and drive from Cape Town to Bredasdorp by car (175 km). Transfer can be arranged, if necessary
Route from Cape Town:
Driving from Cape Town take the N2 towards Somerset West . Drive through Somerset West towards Caledon. Take the R316 and follow this road to Bredasdorp
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, an extra plastic bag for litter and a mobile phone. Make sure that you are aware of exactly where water can be found each day and note that mobile phone is not available in some areas. Consult your Route Manager.
We have selected a panel of guesthouses/hotels for your trip. Your booking will be made according to availability
Overall rating is Easy/Moderate. You do not need to be ultra-fit but certainly able to cycle between 30 and 55 km per day and able to cope with undulating countryside and some hills. See Cycling grades for more details about Moderate rating.
Day 1 – arrival: Day 2 – Easy: Day 3 – Moderate: Day 4 – Moderate
The Southernmost area offers a range of attractions and activities that can be added to your itinerary if you have specific special interests.
Our Route Manager can assist with bookings and advice.
The holiday can be booked any time of the year but the best time of the year to visit the area is when summer is drawing to a close and the tempestuous southeaster dies down to a little breeze.
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.
We recommend that you arrange appropriate holiday insurance giving you cover against illness, injury, and loss or damage to luggage. This insurance should also cover the possibility of your having to cancel your holiday for any reason.
Comments by guests who have experienced a self-guided walking/cycling 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
Some guest comments about the Southernmost area: ……” a great destination for cyclists. It is a place of stunning natural beauty and a destination where you really get off the beaten track and experience the local culture. The accommodation is of a very high standard.”
Shipwreck Cycling is a self-guided cycling holiday to explore the Southern tip of Africa in the Overberg area.
The Shipwreck Cycling holiday was structured to offer the best of the area. For more information about the area, go to Read more
