Closest Town: Paterson
Grading: Moderate
Duration: 2–3 hours
Location (Area/Province): Eastern Cape and Western Region
Configuration: Return ride, 20–55km
Start Point: Zuurberg turn-off
Access: None; public roads
Beware of: Vehicles – it’s a public road
Facilities: Ice-cold drinks at Zuurberg Mountain Inn
Cell Reception: Good
No matter where you stay in the Sundays River valley, you’ll find a road to ride on. For the fit and adventurous riders, there is the challenge of Zuurberg Pass (the R335 used to be the old Coach Route from PE to Johannesburg).
This ride starts on the floor of the Sundays River valley and goes all the way up past the Zuurberg Mountain Inn. Two sections are relatively tough: the first is around 4km before you get to the pass itself, and the other is just after the pass and about 5km from the hotel. These are long, straight climbs that never seem to end. Carry on to Woody Fields Pass and Boontjies River Pass, then turn back at the crossroads.
Descents can be a bit hairy, so make sure your brakes are working. Remember, this is a public road and people don’t expect to encounter mad mountain bikers …
For more information on the Zuurberg region, check out our blogpost here!
Horseback riding or elephant-back safaris in Addo; the amazing Alexandria Hiking Trail and guided walking trails.
GPS: 33°26’884” South / 25°41’290” East
