The best road cycling routes in South Africa

South Africa offers a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 370 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, including 77 easy, 240 moderate, and 53 difficult options, ensuring there's a ride for every skill level.

Road cycling in South Africa features incredibly diverse terrains. You can expect breathtaking coastal roads, challenging mountain passes, and picturesque vineyard routes, particularly in the Western Cape. The landscape includes dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and even arid semi-desert regions like the Karoo, offering varied conditions and stunning scenery.

The road cycling routes in South Africa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 340 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning scenery, the quality of the roads, and the diverse challenges offered by the coastal routes, mountain passes, and vineyard landscapes.

While many routes feature significant climbs, there are numerous moderate and easy options suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The Western Cape, with its well-maintained roads and scenic vineyard areas, often provides gentler gradients and picturesque surroundings ideal for family outings. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' or 'moderate' on komoot.

South Africa's road cycling routes often pass by iconic landmarks and natural wonders. In the Western Cape, you might cycle with views of Table Mountain Summit or explore areas near Lion's Head summit. Further afield, you could encounter dramatic mountain passes like Sani Pass or the scenic Swartberg Pass Summit. Coastal routes offer views of the ocean and opportunities to spot wildlife.

The Western Cape is a prime destination for scenic road cycling, particularly around Cape Town, the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek), and the coastal areas. Routes like those around Llandudno Viewpoint offer breathtaking ocean views. The Garden Route also provides a mix of coastal and forested scenery, while the Drakensberg Mountains offer spectacular mountain backdrops for more challenging rides.

Yes, many road cycling routes in South Africa are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Llandudno Viewpoint – Suikerbossie Climb loop from Oranjezicht is a popular circular route offering significant elevation and coastal views. Other loops like the View of Noordhoek Beach – Llandudno Viewpoint loop from Kommetjie provide longer, challenging circular options.

The best time for road cycling in South Africa generally depends on the region. The Western Cape, including Cape Town and the Winelands, is ideal during the drier, cooler months from September to May. For whale watching along the Whale Coast, June to December is prime. The Drakensberg can be challenging in winter due to colder temperatures, while the Karoo is best avoided during the intense summer heat.

Absolutely. South Africa offers numerous long-distance routes for experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge. Many routes, especially those traversing mountain passes or connecting coastal towns, can extend for significant distances. For instance, the Llandudno Viewpoint – View of Noordhoek Beach loop from Woodstock Station covers over 93 km with substantial elevation gain, providing a demanding ride for advanced cyclists.

Yes, especially in the Cape Winelands regions like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, road cycling routes often pass through or near historic wine estates and charming towns. These areas are perfect for combining your ride with coffee breaks or wine tasting experiences. Even coastal routes often have cafes in towns like Simon's Town or Kalk Bay.

While popular routes can be busy, exploring the extended Garden Route or the Karoo offers a more remote experience. The R102 along the Garden Route is often recommended over the busier N2 for a more scenic and cyclist-friendly ride. The Karoo's vast, arid landscapes provide unique gravel cycling opportunities away from heavy traffic, though some paved roads exist for road bikes.

Yes, South Africa is known for its challenging climbs and mountain passes. Routes like the Llandudno Viewpoint – Suikerbossie Climb loop from Oranjezicht feature over 1000 meters of elevation gain. The Drakensberg Mountains also offer strenuous rides with spectacular views, including the formidable Sani Pass, though a passport is required for the full ascent into Lesotho.