Doringbaai to Papendorp

Have I mentioned that it is proper mooi here along the southern section of Namaqua’s West Coast? Scrubland plains and kelp-strewn beaches suddenly go ballistic in the vicinity of Strandfontein, rearing up into serrated lines of rugged sandstone sea cliffs.

You have a number of riding options to play with here on the edges of the icy Atlantic, with the 6km coastal section between the fishing village of Doring Bay and Strandfontein being by far the most spectacular. A steep single-track route hugs high outcrops, making for a 90-minute return ride with sublime ocean views.

Upon reaching Strandfontein, however, you will have the option to continue on towards Papendorp: a tiny mission village on the Olifants River estuary. Incredible birding along the marshy flood plains means you can tick off pelicans, flamingos and a host of other water birds on the run. All in all, the full circuit comes to just on 30km, and the route is well marked (look out for the Tronox route signs). You can either do this as a there-and-back return ride, or head back from Papendorp along a gravel road for some variety.

Check out our blogpost on other MTB routes in Papendorp here!