Day 1 Ceres Karoo – Mount Cedar – Sandrif – 65 km

Early morning departure from a central meeting point and shuttling out from the city, passing through Ceres and into the Koue Bokkeveld, where we hop on our bikes and begin cycling along a winding dirt road, the scenery getting more & more rugged and desolate, as we venture closer to the Cederberg, with some good climbs in the mix (e.g. 500m in 6 km). Just after Matjiesrivier, we have an opportunity to view the impressive Stadsaal rock paintings, before heading to Sanddrif, our accommodation for the next 2 nights.

Day 2 Sandrif Loop – 30 km

This is classic Cederberg and the rock formations in the ‘Valley of the Red Gods’ are ever watchful as we begin our rugged 30km loop. It is moderate mountain biking, but there are some technical bits and a touch of sand here there to keep you honest and even in this dry environment we need to cross a river. The hardy few can opt for a further 25 km down past Kromrivier and return. Others can opt for a swim in the river and/ or a wine tasting at the Cederberg Cellars or just relax in these tranquil surroundings.

Day 3 Sandrif to Travellers Rest – 88 km

This is a beautiful route taking us into the heart of the Cederberg wildflower region and if the annual rains have come early enough we might be in for a bursts of colour to our flanks as we pass through the missionary settlement of Wuppertal, which lies in a deep valley affording us a white-knuckle descent and lung-bursting ascent. If the flowers are out we will opt to go via the Biedouw Valley en route to our rustic farm accommodation. There are some magnificent rock art paintings on the farm and those who are keen can walk the very accessible Sevilla trail to view these.

Day 4 Travellers Rest to Citrusdal – 92 km

A steep (fortunately tarred) ascent takes us up over the spectacular Pakhuis Pass,  followed by 20km down to the Olifants valley 800m below, where we pass through Clanwilliam before skirting the dam by the same name for 20km’s. The route follows the river course all the way to Citrusdal, where we grab a shower some lunch at the local hotel, before hopping on the bus and shuttling home.