Cycling the Cape & Winelands

Name: Cycling the Cape & Winelands
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.6 (65 reviews)

65 reviews

Activity

Cycling

Overview

Ride through vineyards, over mountain passes and along the spectacular coastline of South Africa

Renowned as one of the most beautiful places on Earth, Cape Town and its surroundings provide a stunning backdrop for this cycling tour. Our unique circular route allows us to take in the fantastic sights of the Cape Peninsula. In addition to Table Mountain and the chance to sample wine from the Stellenbosch estates, the wild coastline and rugged interior provide classic riding on peaceful roads with little traffic. The scenery, a rich cultural history, unique flora, and unusual wildlife encounters make this a fantastic destination to discover on two wheels.

Key Information

Trip Code: MZC
Ways to Travel: Guided Group
Countries: South Africa
Carbon Footprint: 30kg CO2e per person per day

What's Included

All breakfasts and one dinner
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Arrival transfer for any flight, group departure transfer available
Local bike hire

Don't Forget To

Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations, and to hire an E-bike (available at an additional cost).

9 days of Cycling

Pace:

Moderate: 8mph-10mph (13kph-16kph)

Terrain:

Low altitude; 95 percent paved, 5 percent hard pack dirt roads

Day 2: 38 km / 23.6 miles
Day 3: 70 km / 43.5 miles
Day 4: 63 km / 39.1 miles
Day 5: 34 km / 21.1 miles
Day 6: 54 km / 33.6 miles
Day 7: 50 km / 31.1 miles
Day 9: 78 km / 48.5 miles
Day 10: 23 km / 14.3 miles
Day 11: 55 km / 34.2 miles

Highlights

Ride a selection of beautiful South African landscapes: vineyards, mountain passes and coast
Cycle part of the stunning Cape Argus route, one of the largest cycling events in the world
Take the chance to sample exquisite produce from the Stellenbosch vineyards
Visit Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point in Africa
Begin and end in Cape Town with the option of visiting Robben Island, Table Mountain and more

Itinerary

First Destination: Cape Town
Next Destination: Cape Town

Meals included:Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Cape Town
Next Destination: Cape Town

Begin your adventure in cosmopolitan Cape Town, undeniably beautiful, culturally rich and a gateway to the Cape and Winelands. If you arrive in good time we recommend a cable car ride up Table Mountain for fantastic views over Cape Town and the coast; a visit to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens; or a half-day trip to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela and other members of the ANC served long prison sentences (this can also be done on Day 12, depending on the weather on Table Mountain).

Around 6pm, say howzit to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.

Your tour leader then ensures a big South African welcome by arranging a group dinner.

Want to explore Cape Town further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (or similar)

Meals included:Dinner

This morning, we have a short transfer from our lodge to the harbour and then we cycle to Bloubergstrand, where the iconic pictures of Cape Town with Table Mountain as a backdrop are taken. After taking the obligatory photos, we have a short transfer into the centre of the winelands. In the afternoon, we cycle over Hellshoogte (Hell’s Heights) and then freewheel the rest of the way to the Boschendal vineyards where we stop for a well-earned drink (optional) before transferring to our accommodation in Stellenbosch.

Accommodation: San Gabriel Homestead (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

In the morning, we have a short transfer before cycling through Franschhoek and up the Franschhoek Pass (2,425ft/739m) for some of the most breath-taking views in the region. We then continue to cycle to Villiersdorp. After lunch, we cycle towards Nuy Valley and then take a short transfer to Montagu.

Accommodation: Montagu Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

Today we head east, cycling from our accommodation in Montagu to our accommodation in Barrydale. Along the way, the landscape changes to the semi-arid desert of the Great Karoo, a huge ancient plateau making up almost a third of South Africa’s landmass and littered with remains of ancient indigenous cultures. We cycle a scenic backroad traversing a more fertile region known as the Little Karoo, a short climb brings us to the Tradouws Plateau before arriving in Barrydale, our base for the night. This quiet old Dutch village is in a fertile valley surrounded by a colourful mix of vines, fruits and wildflowers (in season). While here, we visit a local co-op cellar and have an opportunity to taste their produce, including the well-respected local chardonnay.

Accommodation: Karoo Art Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

After breakfast, a short climb takes us up and over the spectacular Tradouws Pass. Near the top are the remains of a prison camp once home to the convicts that constructed the pass in 1873. From here, the route is mainly downhill through the Langeberg Mountains to the small town of Suurbrak. Built by the London Missionary Society in 1812, many of the buildings have been restored and now the town has the feel of a living museum. Moving on, we reach our base for the night, Swellendam. From here, we drive to the Bontebok National Park, home to rare antelope, mountain zebras and endangered crane species. The park has two 1.2mi (2km) self-guided nature trails, which can be explored independently.

Accommodation: Aanhuizen Guest House or Aan de Eike Guest House (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

A short transfer (12mi/20km) brings us into the Overberg district, and we cycle through the cultivated farmlands of the Western Cape to Bredasdorp. The road gently rolls through neat wheat fields and remote fishing villages facing the Indian Ocean, arriving at Cape Agulhas. This is the southernmost point in Africa, and the newest national park in the country, encompassing vast wetlands, coastline and extending some kilometres out to sea. Whales and other sea life that frequent the warm Indian Ocean here enjoy the protection. It also provides a home to thousands of sea birds and seals that can be seen along the rugged beaches.

Accommodation: Cape Agulhas Guest House (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

This morning, we cycle through the picturesque hamlet of Elim and past 34mi (55km) of undulating farmlands to the coastal town of Kleinbaai. Following lunch, we take a short transfer into Stanford where we can sample local beer at the Birkenhead Brewery. We finish our day in the town of Hermanus, famous for the very close sightings of the southern right whale, which come into the secluded bay to mate and calf each year from June to November. In the afternoon, we have the option of cycling from one of the local viewpoints of Walker Bay along the Hermanus coastal road to our accommodation, offering the best chance of spotting the whales.

Accommodation: Windsor Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade to a sea-view room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast

We have a free day today to rest our legs in Hermanus. In the 1920s, the town was known as a place to convalesce and was being recommended from as far afield as London. Grand hotels were built and its reputation as a holiday resort was established. It still manages a delightful balance between the two industries of fishing and tourism. In addition to this, the World Wildlife Foundation recognises Hermanus as among the best places in the world for whale watching.

Our September to October departures give the best opportunity to see whales swimming off the coast.

Accommodation: Windsor Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade to a sea-view room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast

Today we cycle the Whale Coast, from Hermaus to Gordon’s Bay, one of the most scenic rides in the world. The road follows the rugged coastline, passing through fishing villages with dramatic views over False Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. Along the route, there is a good chance our efforts will be encouraged by numerous troops of Cape baboon. Today is the longest cycle day, but those preferring a shorter ride can catch a lift in the support bus for part of the journey. We transfer at the end of the day from Gordon’s Bay to Simonstown.

Accommodation: Quayside Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

After breakfast, an 18mi (30km) transfer brings us to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. We then walk from the Cape of Good Hope to the old lighthouse at Cape Point. From here, we cycle through the Cape Point Nature Reserve and then along the very scenic coastal road to the historic village of Simonstown, downhill for most of the way, with panoramic views over False Bay. After a rest stop and lunch at Boulders Beach, we visit the local penguin colony (optional). We then continue our cycle along the coastal road to our overnight accommodation.

Accommodation: Quayside Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

The ride today follows part of the annual Cape Argus route, one of the largest cycling events in the world, and is arguably the most scenic route in South Africa. We complete our circuit by cycling from Glencairn over the Red Hill pass along an old navy road to Scarborough and then along the Atlantic coast via the stunning Chapman’s Peak drive into Hout Bay. After lunch in Hout Bay, we cycle up Suikerbos Ridge past Llandudno and then onto Cape Town via Camp’s Bay and the 12 Apostles all the way to our accommodation in Seapoint. We celebrate the end of the cycling at one of the many venues at the Waterfront.

Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

Our adventure ends in Cape Town after breakfast. If you have free time before your flight home you may want to discover more of the waterfront or take a half-day trip to Robben Island.

Alternatively, if you’d like to stay in South Africa longer, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Call us on 0203 733 5948

Your Group, Your Adventure

Want to choose your travel companions? Gather your family and friends and let us create a Private Adventure just for you.

View Details

Accommodation

Hotels, lodges and guesthouses

We have selected a combination of three- and four-star hotels and lodges for this cycling adventure across the Western Cape. Each property is well located for our cycling or for nearby attractions. Many of the hotels and lodges have lovely views and most have pools. The normal accommodations used on this trip can be found on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are a few of the notable places we stay.

Upgrade to a sea-view room on Day 7 and Day 8 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details.

Montagu: Montagu Hotel (night 3)

Cycling the Cape & Winelands

Between the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route is the Montagu Hotel, an architectural gem that opened in 1875. It was refurbished with original art deco and Victorian furniture and has two swimming pools, two restaurants, a spa and a flower-filled garden. An idyllic stop while travelling through the Langeberg mountains.

Hermanus: Windsor Hotel (nights 7-8)

Cycling the Cape & Winelands

The 120-year-old Windsor Hotel sits opposite Walker Bay, one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world when southern right whales migrate to the bay to breed (July to November). Whale-watching is even possible from the comfort of the hotel restaurant. However, the location of the property is also ideal out of season with a central setting within town and quick access to the 7.5mi (12km) Hermanus Cliff Path.

Simonstown: Quayside Hotel (nights 9-10)

Cycling the Cape & Winelands

This bright and breezy boutique hotel is centrally located in Simonstown on the water’s edge. Rooms are outfitted with an elegant nautical design and have views of either the Simonskloof mountains or False Bay.

Post-trip Extensions

Exclusive Add-ons

Cape Town Hotels

With its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, world-class food scene and vibrant waterfront, additional nights in Cape Town can make your adventure feel even more extraordinary. Here are a few of our favourite hotels to inspire your stay:

Bay Hotel: Set along the palm-lined shores of Camps Bay, this stylish beachfront hotel offers elegant rooms with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. With multiple pools, a relaxed coastal atmosphere and easy access to cafés and restaurants, it’s perfect for unwinding after your tour.

V&A Hotel by Newmark: Located in the lively V&A Waterfront, this contemporary hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort. Spacious rooms, harbour views and direct access to shops, dining and attractions make it an ideal base for exploring Cape Town.

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel: A luxury retreat at the foot of Table Mountain, the Mount Nelson offers lush gardens, refined rooms and classic afternoon tea on its iconic pink terraces. Its serene setting, exceptional service and rich heritage make it one of Cape Town’s most memorable places to stay.

This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your sales representative, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.

Essential Information

This tour is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

There are nine days of cycling with an average distance of approximately 34mi (55km) per day with full vehicle support. Cycling durations stated in the itinerary are approximations and vary depending on the group’s pace.

This is a classic road tour with some relaxed rides and the opportunity to tackle a few challenging climbs. We primarily use good quality paved roads with a few excursions onto hard-packed graded roads. This trip uses main roads, which can be busy, but the scenery is wonderful.

Legal note: All group members joining this tour will be asked to sign an indemnity form at the start of the holiday. This indemnity form is a requirement of the South African Tourism Service Association, of which our local supplier is a member. As a client of Exodus Travels Ltd, your rights under the Package Travel Regulations (1992) are unaffected, and Exodus remains liable for the actions of our sub-contractors.

Key information

Start hotel: City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Dock Rd &, Alfred St, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8012
Phone: +27 21 419 9450
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing around 6pm this evening.
Airport: Cape Town Airport (CPT)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers for all customers from Cape Town International Airport to the start hotel. Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.

If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Please note: If you are travelling on flights via Johannesburg, you will need to collect your baggage in Johannesburg, even if your bag has been checked all the way through to Cape Town (and even if you are told that you do not need to pick it up). After collecting the bag, you are required to clear customs, and you should then drop it off at the bag drop for the onward flight. This only applies to the outbound flight – you do not need to do this at the end of the trip on the return flight.

Catching your return flight

There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.

British passport holders and most European and Commonwealth Passport holders do not require a visa to travel to South Africa. Please note that all travellers to South Africa who do require a visa are required to have a minimum of 2 blank consecutive pages in their passport i.e. a left hand page and a right hand page to enable an entry visa to be issued.

Please note that new regulations from the 1 June 2015 mean that any child under 18 travelling to South Africa needs to be in possession of an unabridged birth certificate with the names of both parents.

If a child under 18 is only travelling with a single parent, they will also have to have an affidavit, no less than 3 months old, from the absent parent confirming the child can travel with the other parent; a court order granting full legal guardianship of the child; or a death certificate of the deceased parent.

For breakfast, expect continental buffets with fresh fruit, cereals, bread, yogurts and tea and coffee. On some days, our guides prepare a cooked breakfast when they have the facilities to do so. Lunches can consist of a good spread of fresh salads, cold meats, cheese, bread, condiments, fresh fruit and a selection of cold drinks. For evening meals, expect a large braai (barbecue) with lots of locally sourced steaks, sausages and vegetables. Restaurant menus are very varied and our guide will be available to recommend the best options for your personal tastes and budget. You can expect stews, pasta, curry and steaks.

Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared.

February is the hottest month in Cape Town with an average temperature of 23C (73F). June is the coldest month of the year with an average temperature of 13C (55F). At the times we run most of our trips, expect warm days with the temperatures around 20C (68F).

The best time to see the carpets of wildflowers and fruit blossoms is August and September. In summer, the southeasterly wind can blow up to 43mph (70kph) at least a few times a month. This helps to cool things off but can be a little tiring if cycling into it. Our programme is flexible enough to accommodate any major changes in weather, and yet still be enjoyable.

We would like to thank David for taking the time to submit a review and were pleased to read that he enjoyed South Africa in general. On the other hand, we were genuinely sorry to hear that he was disappointed by the leadership and several other aspects of his tour. The leader assigned to this departure has been working with Exodus for 6 years, during which time he has led 25 trips and amassed a lot of positive feedback from our clients. Whilst we expect leaders to be familiar with the equipment, they are mostly focused on the general logistics of the tour, which is why our cycling tours feature mechanics who are on-hand to address any issues with the bikes and inspect them after every ride. We understand that your mechanic doubled up as your driver and we can confirm that he has vast experience working in these roles for Exodus and other tour operators. We find that this arrangement works well, although we are sorry if you felt your leader could have offered more support. We regret that David was also disappointed with the quality of the bikes, particularly as the bikes allocated to his group were just 2 years old at the time and had only been used on 3 tours. These bikes were checked by our local manager before being distributed to your group and he has assured us that they were in pristine condition. In terms of the cost of the e-bikes, these are extremely expensive to purchase and maintain and we can confirm that the prices we charge for this option are reflective of the costs we incur to use them. To cover as much of this large country as possible and avoid cycling on busy roads, this trip involves some transfer time in a vehicle, however, almost half of the total distance is spent on the bikes along quieter, more scenic routes. We find that many clients enjoy the transition between bikes and vehicle, as it allows people to recover, whilst still taking in the views, although we are sorry that this was not David’s experience. We would not wish for any of our clients to feel unsafe on our trips so we were concerned to read David’s comments about his time in South Africa. Whilst we advise clients to take caution in all the countries we operate trips in, our local manager, who has resided in South Africa for many decades, has assured us that all the places visited on this itinerary are safe to walk around. This trip’s average rating of 4.5/5* suggests that most of our clients enjoy it, which we find reassuring, although we would not wish to downplay David’s disappointment on this occasion. We sincerely hope that he affords us another chance on a future trip.

John Penge, Product Manager

Paula Helderman- van den Enden

There are a lot of hills on this trip! Don't hesitate to book an electric bike if you have any doubts!

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Go and enjoy the scenery, wildlife, wine and people.

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Cycling the Cape & Winelands

Activity Level

Comfort Level

Activity

Overview

Ride through vineyards, over mountain passes and along the spectacular coastline of South Africa

Key Information

What's Included

Don't Forget To

9 days of Cycling

Highlights

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Your Group, Your Adventure

Accommodation

Hotels, lodges and guesthouses

Post-trip Extensions

Cape Town Hotels

Essential Information

Key information

Getting to the start hotel

Catching your return flight

Reviews

Cycling the Cape and Winelands

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Windy but wonderful

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Great Trip, Great Group

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Challenging yet rewarding cycling with stunning views, wine and food!

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Cycling with stunning scenery and glorious warm sunshine

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Suggestions

Brilliant Trip

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Cycling in the Cape

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Reply from Exodus

Cycling the Cape & Winelands 230212

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Excellent Trip

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November 2022

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