With stunning views and steep climbs to conquer, South Africa is the ultimate place to enjoy the thrilling adventure of mountain biking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this country’s vast network of locations offers trails that cater to all skill levels, making it an accessible and inclusive destination for the epic endeavour of this outdoor sport.
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Are you wondering which destinations have the best mountain bike trails and paths? Here are a few spots to pedal through South Africa’s picturesque plains and natural beauty.
Bergville (KwaZulu-Natal)
A quaint town with the majestic Drakensberg Mountains as its backdrop, Bergville is the perfect base to enjoy a treasure trove of outdoor activities. These include the Drakensberg Trail, which has a variety of routes to ride and revel in the riveting roads.
From easy singletrack terrains to longer, more challenging routes, you’ll have a wide selection of options to choose from. The Drakensberg also has several mountain bike races and events in the vicinity if you’re looking to put your skills to the test. As the trails can be trickier and more technical, this mountain biking destination is better suited for intermediate or regular riders.
Stellenbosch (Western Cape)
A must-visit destination due to its beautiful places to visit, Stellenbosch has an incredible array of mountain bike trails to experience and explore. From the daring downhill paths of MTO Jonkershoek to the more forgiving trails of Coetzenberg, you’ll be sure to have an exhilarating adventure no matter your skill level. If you’re looking for an e-bike mountain adventure, Stellenbosch has a selection of routes suitable for this type of journey.
Northern Farm (Gauteng)
A top choice for beginners, Northern Farm Nature Reserve is an underrated gem that offers many mountain biking trails. With forested areas and grasslands to explore, this conservation area is a wonderful way to drink in the natural beauty while peddling.
The mountain biking trails are marked and colour-coded so that riders can choose a route suitable for their skill level. This location will be fun for the entire family, as one of the trails is assigned explicitly to young riders for an easy and challenge-free experience.
