The best road cycling routes around Durbans

Durban offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 140 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy coastal rides to challenging inland climbs.

Durban's road cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find flat, scenic coastal paths like the Golden Mile Promenade, gently rolling roads through sugar cane fields north of the city, and challenging undulating hills with significant elevation changes in areas like the Valley of 1000 Hills.

Yes, Durban has routes suitable for beginners. The region offers 19 easy road cycling routes. For a relaxed experience, the iconic Golden Mile Promenade provides a flat and safe ride with uninterrupted ocean views. You can also find routes with gentler gradients through agricultural areas.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Durban offers 28 difficult road cycling routes. The Valley of 1000 Hills, inland from Durban, is known for its undulating terrain and significant elevation changes, providing a rigorous workout amidst stunning natural beauty.

While cycling in the broader region, you can encounter various points of interest. For example, the route Troglodytic Château des Anglais – Marcilhac-sur-Célé Village loop from Reilhac passes near the historic Castle of the English. Other highlights in the wider area include Saint-Sulpice and the Espagnac Sainte-Eulalie.

Yes, Durban offers several longer routes. For instance, the Troglodytic Château des Anglais – Marcilhac-sur-Célé Village loop from Reilhac is a challenging 91.4 km (56.8 miles) trail with significant elevation gain, often completed in about 4 hours 14 minutes.

The road cycling routes in Durban are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain and scenic beauty, which offers options for different ability levels.

Absolutely. The majority of road cycling routes in Durban, 94 to be exact, are classified as moderate. An example is the Issendolus – Félix's cazelle loop from Scelles, a 49.8 km (30.9 miles) path with 531 meters (1,741 feet) of ascent, winding through varied terrain.

Many routes in Durban provide stunning views, especially those in the Valley of 1000 Hills and along the coast. The route Rocamadour – Great view over Rocamadour loop from Reilhac is specifically highlighted for its great views over Rocamadour, offering a challenging ride with rewarding vistas.

Durban's climate is generally conducive to year-round outdoor pursuits. The region is known for its pleasant weather, making it a great destination for road cycling throughout most of the year. However, it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts for optimal riding conditions.

Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal province host several well-known cycling events. These include the Durban M13 Cycle Challenge, the aQuellé Tour Durban (which will return as a road race-only event in 2026), and the Amashova National Classic, a gran fondo that starts in Pietermaritzburg and finishes in Durban.

The Durban region boasts lush green hills, extensive sugar cane fields, and stunning coastal views along the Indian Ocean. Inland, areas like the Valley of 1000 Hills offer verdant landscapes, while routes further afield can provide views of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.