Wild about SA – Great mountain-biking trails

South Africa is not all its cranked up to be – it’s better. Countrywide there are biking trails that will suit every taste – from casual weekend meanders with your kids to whiteknuckle single tracks.

Lebanon
Lebanon, near Grabouw, offers a ride for everyone. There are four routes ranging from an easy six kilometres to a more challenging 25 kilometres. Non-riders have a range of activities close at hand to keep them occupied, from horse riding to wine tasting. Contact Oak Lane Cottages 021-844-0248, cell 083- 461-8940, e-mail info@oaklane.co.za, web www.oaklane.co.za.

Harkerville
The Harkerville mountain biking trails start from the aptly named Garden of Eden outside Knysna. There are four routes of varying difficulty through incredible natural forest but nothing too challenging. The surroundings are nothing short of spectacular. Web www.easterncapemountainbiking.co.za.

Muldersdrift
Northern Farms in Muldersdrift is the ideal introduction to mountain biking. It’s easy enough for the whole family to participate and there’s lots to see on this 2 500-hectare nature reserve on the banks of the Jukskei River.

For more information, contact Simon on 082-414-8604 or e-mail simon@northernfarm.co.za, web www.northernfarm.co.za.

Groenkloof Nature Reserve
Groenkloof Nature Reserve in the Fountains Valley, Pretoria, others a welcome escape from an urban existence. The 13-odd kilometres of tracks range from technically challenging rocky sections to smooth hard-pack paths. There’s some wildlife in the park and you’re sure to encounter zebras, giraffes and more on the ride. Entrance costs R18,50 for adults.

Contact 012-440-8316, e-mail davidb@tshwane.gov.za.

Hartbeespoort
Van Gaalens MTB Trail, Hartbeespoort, is an enjoyable route along the Magalies and Skeerpoort rivers. It’s six to 12 kilometres of single track looping through picturesque terrain and includes one or two dips across the river. Tel 012-207-1289.

Newcastle
Round the Mountain route near Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal is a 35- kilometre ride offering a good workout and views of the Drakensberg escarpment. There are no entry fees, but the route leaves from the Pint and Pigout pub, which could set you back a few rand after your ride.

East London
Four Legged Fish, near East London, is where a number of different routes radiate from Kidd’s Beach. You can ride along the beach (into the Gulu and Tyolomnqa Nature Reserves) or head inland through farms on routes ranging from 10 to 100 kilometres.

Contact Four Legged Fish Adventures on tel 043-781-1624, cell 082-838-4181.

For a list of trails, visit www.mtbroutes.co.za.