Closest Town: Ceres
Grading: Easy or difficult
Duration: 90 minutes or 3 hours
Location (Area/Province): Central & Klein Karoo and Western Cape
Configuration: Circular options – 15km or 49km
Start Point: Reception at Vaalkloof Private Nature Reserve
Access: Permits available from the reserve office (023) 316 1690
Beware of: Take enough water in summer as water points may be dry
Facilities: Ablutions, accommodation
Cell Reception: None
OVERVIEW
The main circular route starts at reception and follows a dual-track reserve road through Karoo landscape.
On your bike
The trail, along rugged terrain and passing through unique Karroid flora, is rated somewhere between easy and intermediate. If you’re a rider of average ability, you should expect to spend around two to three hours in the saddle. If, however, you want to push it into the endurance zone, join up to the 4×4 route to add an additional 34 km for a monster of a ride. Although there are many water stops along the way and you will pass a dam that is excellent for swimming, it is a good idea to bring ample water, as many of these points may be dry in summer.
Off the bike
Vaalkloof is a private nature reserve situated within the Karoo region between Ceres and Matjiesfontein. A visit to this little period village is a must – do not leave if you have not take the opportunity to down an ale at the legendary Lord Milner Hotel
The Ceres karoo consists of a diverse ecosystem that is rich in rare flora and fauna. Vaalkloof has been declared a Natural Heritage Site – it is the largest within the Western Cape. Abundant waterholes and troughs provide excellent bird viewing as well as the opportunity to see the rare and endangered Suurpoortjie tortoise.
CONTACT:
Route information:
Address: Vaalkloof Private Nature Reserve
Website : www.naturereserve.co.za
Telephone: +27 (0)21 434 1230
GPS: 33°10’57.2”S 19°53’25.3”E:
