Kamieskroon, situated approximately half an hour to the south of Springbok, arguably rates as one of South Africa’s best-kept mountain-biking secrets. Set amid the granite rock formations of the Kamiesberg range, the name ‘Kamies’ is thought to be derived from the Nama word ‘kam’, which means ‘two’.
Four routes traverse the Kamiesberg area to the east of the tiny dorp, and the riding here will delight greenhorns and gear-heads alike. The bad news is that the Leliefontein, Vissersplaat and Nourivier routes are no longer operated by the local Kamiesberg communities. This means that the routes have fallen into disrepair due to a lack of trail maintenance, with no route signage along the way. However, don’t let this put you off as much of the riding is along public roads anyway.
Nourivier (29km) offers a moderately easy circular route.
Leliefontein – 30km to the southeast of Kamieskroon and reached via a series of picturesque mountain passes – offers a short 8.2km ride perfect for the whole family.
There is also a longer route that can be done either as a straight-line 30km (you would need to arrange a pick-up), or a challenging circular return ride of 49km. This is for the more accomplished rider.
Vissersplaat circular ride (7.5km) boasts excellent scenic views.
Your crank follows an extensive network of gravel roads past small settlements such as Witwater.
Contact details
- Email: wsjtoerisme@telkomsa.net
- Phone: 027-672-1948
- Website: www.mtbroutes.co.za
