Circling Simonsberg
This route will show you the best views around Simonsberg with 2 big climbs in between.
Starting out at the base of Bothmaskop on the Jonkershoek road, you climb the forestry roads on the Banhoek Valley trails (you can purchase a day pass online).
As a reward for the winding single track climbs, you get to experience the gem that is Skyfall. Once down and through Bartinney, continue on into the Banhoek valley - winding up next to the river for some truly majestic - Lord of the Rings like - views of the valley. Return over the crest towards Kylemore and experience the fun trails of Conrad Stoltz before continuing on to Boschendal where a delicious brekkie awaits.
After filling up, head out on the Pniel road towards Franschoek, but turn left on the Hugenot Road towards Paarl. Before long keep a lookout for the left turn towards the Kanonkop. A proper climb of 700m awaits, with the award of viewing the valley stretching all the way to Franschoek below.
Going down be sure to turn left towards Wiesenhof and enjoy the winelands before ending by Marianne Wine estate on the R44. Turn left back towards Stellenbosch and warm down the legs with a good spin to close out this 75km, 2000m challenge.
- Distance 75 km
- Time 18 h 37 min
- Speed 4.0 km/h
- Min altitude 121 m
- Peak 851 m
- Climb 1760 m
- Descent 1771 m
- Distance Instructions