Upon arriving at George Airport, you'll be whisked away on a 2.5-hour journey through the picturesque Garden Route to Plettenberg. This drive is a highlight of South African scenic routes, showcasing diverse landscapes from quaint towns and unspoiled beaches to dense forests and towering mountains. En route, there's a chance to visit intriguing sites like the Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary, offering insights into the lives of these majestic creatures, or test your wits at Plett Puzzle Park with its 3D maze and puzzles.

Your first night's stay is at the charming Redford House. Here, you'll be hosted by Colleen Noble, a figure reminiscent of South African royalty. Colleen, whose late husband Clive was the chief medical officer for the national rugby team, the Springboks, has a deep connection to rugby - a sport revered like a national religion in South Africa. Colleen, a Psychology PhD, set her career aside to raise four children and develop Redford House. You'll stay in Noble House, a spacious building with large bedrooms and a lounge, offering stunning views of the Tsitsikamma mountains and surrounding nature reserve, lake, and gardens.

Your home away from home:

Redford House
www.redfordhouse.co.za
12 Redford Rd, Plettenberg Bay
Tel 076 9071019

Embark on an exhilarating 112km cycling journey from Plettenberg to Karatara, traversing tar and dirt roads with a total elevation gain of 1946m over six hours. Your efforts are rewarded with thrilling downhill rides amidst the chance of spotting elusive elephants in their indigenous forest habitat. This route offers a diverse landscape of forest, dairy farms, and country roads.

Arriving at Teniqua Treetops for the night, you’ll discover a unique accommodation experience within the Knysna forest. Here, suites are perched 2-6 meters above ground on stilts, offering stunning views of the Karatara Gorge or the encompassing forest. Each suite features a forest-view bathroom with a large corner bath and a private deck.

Your home away from home:

Teniqua Treetops
teniquatreetops.co.za
Farm 203/71, Sedgefield
Tel 083 551 1117

Today's journey from Karatara to Oudtshoorn spans 122km, transitioning from verdant forests to the striking semi-arid Klein Karoo. Prepare for the breathtaking Montagu Pass, challenging yet rewarding with its expansive views and lush ferns. Descending the pass, the valley's meandering vistas unfold impressively. Your destination, De Zeekoe Guest Farm, sits near Victorian Oudtshoorn, encircled by the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains. This floral haven, part of the world’s 17 biodiversity "hot spots," showcases three intersecting flower kingdoms.

De Zeekoe's private Oudtshoorn Cottages, close to the main house, offer stunning mountain views and rich birdlife, with 162 species recorded. Each cottage, harmonizing with the Karoo landscape, includes a mini-bar, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, air conditioning, bathrobes, slippers, and a private deck.

Your home away from home:

De Zeekoe Guest Farm
www.dezeekoe.co.za
7km outside Oudtshoorn
Tel +27 82 551 3019

Today, embark on a stimulating 78km cycling adventure from Oudtshoorn to Groenfontein, spanning 5 hours with a 1090m elevation gain. This route promises sightings of meerkats and giraffes amidst the red stone hills' striking hues. Your destination is The Retreat, a quaint Victorian farmhouse nestled in the scenic Groenfontein Valley Conservancy, adjacent to the Swartberg Nature Reserve. Here, the splendid Swartberg mountains form a majestic backdrop.

Your hosts, Grant and Marie, excel in Klein Karoo hospitality, ensuring a warm, homely atmosphere. The Retreat, devoid of cell reception and television, is an idyllic escape powered by solar energy and generator backup. Evening mountain breezes guarantee restful sleep, with mosquito-free rooms allowing open windows.

Your home away from home:

The Retreat
www.groenfontein.com
Groenfontein Rd, Klein Karoo
Tel 044 213 3880

On the second day of your tour, you'll travel 78km from Groenfontein to Riversdale, experiencing the enchanting Calitzdorp and vast ostrich farms. Your journey leads to the majestic mountains, culminating in an ascent of the Rooiberg Pass. Although challenging, the 11km climb rewards with breathtaking hillside views. Reaching the summit promises an exhilarating descent towards Van Wyksdorp.

Next, you'll cross Garcia Pass, named after a pioneering trader, entering the cool climate near the Langeberg Mountain range. Descending, you're welcomed by the sight of Riversdale, under the “Sleeping Beauty” mountain.

Your accommodation, De Doornkraal Vinotel, offers a luxurious stay, complete with award-winning dining.

Your home away from home:

De Doornkraal Vinotel
www.dedoornkraal.com
Riversdale, 6670
Tel 028 713 3050

Today, your scenic 100km ride from Riversdale to Swellendam will span about 5 hours. Initially, you'll tackle some invigorating hills near Riversdale, offering both challenge and thrill. As you near Heidelberg, the breathtaking Duiwenhoks valley unfolds, providing a gentle cycling stretch leading up to the formidable Heartbreak Hill. Conquering this climb rewards you with the serene Grootvadersbosch area. You'll then glide down to the quaint village of Suurbraak, immersing yourself in its rich history and culture.

The final leg to Swellendam introduces you to its distinctive Victorian colonial architecture. This farming town, split from the Cape Colony in 1743, now thrives as a tourist hub. It boasts opportunities for wine tasting, hiking, cycling, and embracing a serene, unplugged lifestyle. Your night's stay is at the luxurious Fazenda, a secluded forest haven in the Langeberg mountains. Its opulent cabins offer the perfect setting to unwind and rejuvenate.

Your home away from home:

Fazenda
fazendaswellendam.co.za
Hermitage N Ave, Swellendam
Tel 083 446 1123

Today's cycling tour progresses from Riversdale to the idyllic village of Greyton, covering a scenic 109 km stretch. Greyton is celebrated for its exceptional cuisine and locally brewed craft beer. Your destination is Hemelsbreed Farm, a tranquil retreat managed by Christo and Estelle van Loggerenberg. The farm, situated at the foothills of the Sonderend mountain range, offers a beautifully renovated farmhouse and two charming farm cottages. Your accommodation at the farm will be the exquisite Witpeer Cottage, providing the comfort and independence of self-catering. Experience a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay in the heart of Greyton's natural beauty.

Your home away from home:

Hemelsbreed Farm
www.hemelsbreed.co.za
Greyton
Tel 083 280 1109

As you culminate your cycling journey, Gemoedsrus Farm welcomes you with warm hospitality from Linda, the owner, and Letwin, the manager. The King room at Gemoedsrus Farm promises a serene and restful night, providing a refreshing shower and comfortable amenities for your stay.

Your home away from home:

Gemoedsrus Farm
gemoedsrus-farm.hotels-of-stellenbosch.com/en/
Devon valley road, Stellenbosch
Tel 079 962 9981