The Garden Route Giro (GRG) 2026 promises to be one of the most ambitious gravel stage races ever held in South Africa—a six-day journey that will take riders through the country’s most diverse landscapes, from the coastal beauty of Mossel Bay to the rugged passes of the Karoo and back to the lush forests of the Garden Route.
Organized by Dryland Event Management, a name synonymous with endurance events like the Cape Pioneer Trek and Tankwa Trek, the GRG marks a bold departure for the company. While Dryland has mastered the art of mountain biking events, this is their first foray into the fast-growing discipline of gravel racing—a sport that blends the speed of road cycling with the adventure of off-road riding. Gravel’s global boom has inspired a “cultlike” following, and now South Africa is poised to join that wave with an event that promises to be “absolutely massive.”
The GRG is designed not just as a race but as a full sensory experience—one that showcases the incredible diversity of the Garden Route and its surrounding regions. Riders will tackle everything from fast coastal flats to grueling mountain ascents, and from tarred mountain passes to remote Karoo backroads. Each day reveals a new facet of the landscape, making the race both a physical challenge and a visual feast.
The Garden Route Giro 2026 promises a riding experience unlike any other, defined by its extraordinary diversity. Each stage reveals a new face of South Africa’s landscape—from the fast, open coastal roads of Mossel Bay to the lush farmlands of Riversdale and the rugged climbs of the Garcia and Royberg Passes. Riders will ascend into the towering Swartberg Mountains, descend into the arid beauty of Prince Albert, and roll through the red rock grandeur of Meiringspoort. As the route turns east, the scenery transforms again—expansive Karoo plains giving way to the dense, emerald forests of Knysna and Wilderness. The ever-changing terrain means no two days will feel the same: smooth gravel, technical descents, and flowing forest roads combine to create an immersive, sensory journey. The Garden Route Giro is more than a race—it’s a moving canvas of South Africa’s most captivating contrasts.
Stage 1: Mossel Bay to Riversdale – The Coastal Opener
The journey begins in Mossel Bay, chosen for its accessibility and charm. Just 20 km from George Airport and filled with accommodation options, it’s the perfect launchpad. Stage 1 sets the tone for the race—a fast, flowing introduction over rolling farmlands and smooth gravel that hugs the coastline before turning inland toward Riversdale.
While not overly technical, this opening stage rewards riders with scenic vistas of the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains looming in the distance. The pace will be high, with pelotons forming quickly as riders test each other’s legs. It’s a day to settle into rhythm, find comfort on the bike, and enjoy the raw excitement of gravel racing in the open country.
Stage 2: Riversdale to Kullis – Into the Mountains
Stage 2 marks a shift in terrain and intensity as the race moves northward from Riversdale into the mountains. Riders will take on the Garcia Pass, one of the region’s most picturesque tar climbs, before transitioning to gravel over the Royberg Pass. This stage introduces elevation gain and endurance into the mix, testing both fitness and pacing.
The landscape transforms from green farmland to rugged foothills, where the Karoo’s dry beauty begins to appear. The finish in Kullis is set against a backdrop of wide skies and mountain shadows—a preview of the demanding terrain to come.
Stage 3: Kullis to Prince Albert – The Giant Awaits
If Stage 2 was a climb into the foothills, Stage 3 is the gateway to the giants. Riders face one of South Africa’s most iconic climbs: the Swartberg Pass. This historic mountain pass is a bucket-list experience for any cyclist, offering relentless climbing, dramatic switchbacks, and sweeping views across the Little Karoo.
The descent of the Swartberg is described as “something to behold—especially on a gravel bike.” It’s a technical but breathtaking drop that requires both skill and composure. Riders roll into Prince Albert, a charming Karoo town, where the sense of accomplishment will be immense. This is likely to be the day that separates contenders from participants.
Stage 4: Prince Albert to De Rust – Short, Scenic, and Sublime
After the epic effort of Stage 3, Stage 4 offers some relief—at least in distance. This shorter stage connects Prince Albert to De Rust via Meiringspoort, a gorge renowned for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and winding road that follows the Meirings River.
It’s been called “a really, really special place to ride a bike through,” and for good reason. Riders will weave through 25 river crossings and towering rock formations, surrounded by the raw grandeur of the Swartberg range. Although the distance is shorter, riders who push the pace will find it no less challenging.
Stage 5: De Rust to Knysna – The Queen Stage
The Queen Stage of the GRG is the kind of day that legends are made of. At approximately 165 km with over 2,000 meters of climbing, this “monster stage” links the arid interior to the lush coast. Riders leave De Rust and traverse the varied terrain that defines the transition from the Karoo to the Garden Route—open plains, rolling hills, and dense forest roads.
The physical and mental demands will be enormous. Endurance, fueling, and pacing strategy will determine who thrives and who simply survives. The reward is Knysna, one of South Africa’s most beloved coastal towns, where the sea breeze and forested hills mark the nearing end of the odyssey.
Stage 6: Knysna to Wilderness – The Grand Finale
The final 75 km from Knysna to Wilderness serves as both a celebration and a scenic parade. The route follows the Seven Passes Road, a historic and beautifully maintained gravel road that winds through indigenous forests, rivers, and valleys. It’s smooth, fast, and perfect for spectators, offering one last taste of everything that makes the Garden Route magical.
The race concludes in front of The Wilderness Hotel, Dryland’s event partner, where riders will be greeted with applause, cold drinks, and an unforgettable afterparty. Every participant—whether racing for glory or riding for the experience—will have earned their moment of triumph.
An Experience Beyond Racing
The Garden Route Giro 2026 is more than a race; it’s a journey through South Africa’s heartland. Dryland’s renowned hospitality will be evident at every stage, with professional route support, well-stocked water points, and vibrant race villages that allow riders to immerse themselves in small-town charm.
From the high-speed coastal start to the mountain-top battles and forested finale, the GRG offers the perfect combination of road and off-road, of challenge and celebration. It’s a race that invites riders not just to compete, but to explore, connect, and discover the true rhythm of the Garden Route—one pedal stroke at a time.
