ABOUT
Graaff-Reinet. THE GEM IN THE KAROO.
A captivating town nestled in the heart of the Karoo, it’s a testament to South Africa’s rich historical and natural beauty. As the oldest town in the Eastern Cape and the fifth oldest in the country, Graaff-Reinet boasts a fascinating past that dates back to its establishment in 1786 by the Dutch East India Company. Located in the center of South Africa, it forms the perfect meeting place for athletes from the major cities of Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town, and is a mere 2 and a half hour drive from Gqherba’s Airport (PLZ).
The historic town is renowned for its well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture, with over 200 buildings declared national monuments. A stroll through its streets is like stepping back in time, as you admire the elegant facades and charming courtyards of these historic structures.
Graaff-Reinet’s strategic location within the Camdeboo National Park offers breathtaking natural scenery. The Valley of Desolation, a dramatic geological phenomenon, features sheer cliffs and dolomite pillars, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With several ‘Big 5’ Game reserves in the area and the Mountain Zebra National park in close proximity it’s a great destination throughout the year.
Beyond its historical and natural attractions, Graaff-Reinet offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With a wide variety of accommodation available from a campground in the national park to the Five Star Drostdy Hotel there are options for everyone. The Town’s friendly locals are eager to share their knowledge of the area’s history and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Graaff-Reinet has something to offer everyone.
The Race story
Six years ago I came to the Karoo for the first time. I was looking for somewhere to ride a gravel bike properly, and I found it here — the kind of vast, open country where the road keeps going long enough to forget yourself. Long, fast-rolling gravel that lets you settle into a rhythm. Climbs that don’t let you stay there.
The route took two years to find. I rode it again and again, picking the climbs that earn the descents, making sure you are traversing different areas. keeping the surfaces gravel focussed but challenging. The long flats that test your patience, and the small desert town like Nieu-Bethesda that marks the way.
We hold it in September on purpose. Spring in the Karoo is dry and clear — cool starts, warm afternoons, no thunderstorms yet. Between mid-October and mid-April the place turns mean; in September, it shows you what it actually is.
The race finishes at the top of the Valley of Desolation. You climb the last kilometre on legs that don’t want to climb anymore, and the world opens up below you. That’s the race.
Riders come from across South Africa and from further afield. But it’s still a small race in a small town, run by people who care more about you finishing than about your time. That’s the part I’d like to keep.
Community Connect is a unique initiative supported by Standert bicycles that aims to foster a sense of community among cyclists in South Africa, particularly those who might not have the resources to own a bike. This project focuses on sharing bikes within the community, allowing more people to experience the joy of cycling and explore the beautiful landscapes of South Africa.
We organise group rides and the ROAD TO DESOLATION event.
Key aspects of Community Connect:
By promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and a shared love for cycling, Community Connect is making a positive impact on the cycling culture in South Africa. As organizer of ROAD TO DESOLATION the program keeps those values close at heart and offers participants the opportunity to support riders from the community by sponsoring their entries and connecting with them prior to the race to meet them on the day and race each other.
Learn more about the project: here!
