Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

Winona Griggs

Mountain Biking Bliss at the Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy

I want to share with you an extraordinary place I discovered recently. The Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts like you and me. It offers a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty and thrilling biking trails that will leave you exhilarated.

Picture this: you’re cruising through lush green vineyards, with the sun warming your face and a gentle breeze caressing your skin. The scent of wildflowers fills the air as you pedal along. The trails are well-maintained, allowing you to focus on the sheer joy of riding.

But that’s not all! The conservancy boasts a diverse range of trails to suit every skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. From beginner-friendly routes with gentle slopes to challenging trails that will test your limits, you’ll find your perfect match.

As you navigate the trails, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque landscapes. The conservancy is home to a vast array of plant and animal species, making each ride a unique and immersive experience. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife that call this place their home.

There’s also a sense of tranquility here that is hard to find elsewhere. Amidst the beauty of nature, you’ll feel a deep sense of peace and contentment. The conservancy provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and nature.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain biking adventure, the Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is the place to be. Whether you’re a nature lover, a biking enthusiast, or just someone in search of a new experience, this hidden gem has something for everyone. Join me in exploring this mountain biking heaven and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy riding!

Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

Hey there! If you’re into mountain biking, I’ve got some exciting news for you. The Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC), located near Stellenbosch, has an amazing trail network just waiting to be explored. Picture this: 130 kilometers of farm roads, jeep tracks, and 42 kilometers of single tracks. It’s a mountain biker’s dream!

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What makes it even better is that there’s something for everyone, regardless of your fitness or skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find challenging climbs and various distances to suit your abilities.

But here’s the really cool part. Over the past year, a whopping R160,000 has been invested in trail developments. And you know what that means? It’s not just about the awesome trails; it’s also about making a positive impact on the community. By creating these new trails, local trail building teams based in Bottelary have been able to find work. So while you’re out there, having the time of your life, you can feel good knowing that you’re supporting local employment and boosting the local economy.

Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

The BHRC offers breathtaking views, with endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.

Imagine riding along the new single-track section on Wolwedans, starting at Neethlingshof Wine Estate. As you pedal your way through the pristine Renosterveld, you’ll encounter elevations that reach up to 405 meters. The landscape is truly awe-inspiring.

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, I recommend heading to the new 7-kilometer Fort Simon single track. As you circle the hills, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a thrilling experience for riders who enjoy pushing their limits.

And let me tell you about the Jordan route. This route now boasts a 1.2-kilometer single track that was designed and built by Conrad Stoltz, a former triathlon world champion. This track is suitable for riders of all skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find something to enjoy.

But that’s not all – the BHRC has added some exciting extensions to the Orange route, perfect for junior and novice riders. Starting at Bellevue Wine Estate, you’ll have the chance to explore the 7-kilometer Polkadraai loop. This loop provides access to the wider BHRC mountain bike trail network, where you’ll find shower facilities to freshen up after your ride.

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Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

Hey there! Let’s talk about the awesome Group ride fun in Bottelary Hills! It’s a super cool experience that you don’t want to miss out on!

If you’re an annual permit holder for 2022 BHRC, then I have great news for you. You get to enjoy free access to the brand new Polkadraai Bike Park. It’s perfect for the whole family, with lots of fun stuff for riders of all ages and skill levels.

At Polkadraai Bike Park, they have a special track just for the little ones who are two years old and above. There’s also a pump track, a skills trail, a flow trail, and even a fun line! It’s like a paradise for bike enthusiasts!

Now, if you don’t have an annual permit, don’t worry. You can still join in on the fun by getting a day permit for just R70. You can grab one at the Zettler Strawberry Farm or any of the other estates nearby. And if you’re planning to ride frequently, you can also purchase an annual permit online.

But here’s the thing, my friend. The awesome marshal group works hard to keep the routes in great condition and make sure everyone is riding responsibly. So, please remember that you need a valid permit to access the trails. Safety first!

If you want to know more about which routes to take and where to start your adventure, you can find all that information on the Trailforks app. It’s your trusty guide to navigating the awesome trails!

Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

Hey there, I bet you’d be interested in hearing about Marias Neethling and his amazing skills!

Did you know that route maintenance is an ongoing job? The conservancy works hard to create job opportunities for local youths whenever possible. The BHRC was established with the goal of maintaining, expanding, and preserving the remaining Renosterveld in the area. It’s crazy to think that less than 4% of the original Renosterveld in the Western Cape is still around. But thanks to the efforts of the conservancy, we can still enjoy it.

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Get this: the trails were actually opened by the Bottelary Hills Conservancy back in April 2011. This allowed people like you and me to access the conservancy through dedicated routes. Pretty cool, huh?

Speaking of cool things, did you know that the Bottelary Hills is part of the Cape Floral Region? It’s one of the 34 biodiversity hotspots recognized by UNESCO. And get this: there are around 9,000 plant species in the CFR, with a whopping 70% of them found nowhere else on the planet. Mother Nature really outdid herself with this one!

Stellenbosch Bottelary Hills Conservancy is mountain bike heaven

Hey there! I’ve got some exciting news for you. Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to go hiking on the BHRC single tracks. But don’t fret! There are still some awesome circular hiking trails that you can explore on Mooiplaas and Koopmanskloof. These trails actually cross over the MTB routes, so you can still soak up the beautiful scenery.

If you’re up for something a little different, Zevenwacht Wine Estate has got you covered. They offer an amazing vineyard walking trail. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of nature while enjoying some delicious wine. Don’t forget to grab a day permit from the respective tasting rooms. Oh, and if you’re itching for a hike at Koopmanskloof, make sure to schedule an appointment at [email protected] – they’re ready to help you out!

But wait, there’s more! Zevenwacht also offers an annual walking/running permit. So if you’re looking for a regular adventure at the estate, this is the ticket.

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