Cross Cape inaugural ride set to end in Stellenbosch | Western Cape Government

News

News

Cross Cape inaugural ride set to end in Stellenbosch

17 May 2017

After cycling 742km through the Western Cape’s scenic small towns and valleys, riders will complete the inaugural Cross Cape ride in Stellenbosch tomorrow (18 May).

Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, has this week been leading the inaugural ride from Plettenberg Bay to Stellenbosch.

The picturesque route, which traces gravel roads and rural valleys, is seeking to drive tourism to small towns off the beaten track, across the Western Cape.

Minister Winde and a group of riders this morning (17 May) left Swellendam, cycling 106kms through Riviersonderend to Greyton. In each town, they were joined by residents and town mayors.

“Cross Cape has taken us on a very special journey along some of the most beautiful parts of our province. We’ve been lucky enough to meet with residents who have demonstrated that warm hospitality South Africans are known for. We’ve also met with entrepreneurs offering unique products, and I am confident they will be able to take advantage of the increase in cycle tourists we project as a result of Cross Cape,” said Minister Winde.

Tomorrow, the final 107km leg kicks off at 8am at the Greyton Lodge. The final stretch takes riders past the Theewaterskloof Dam , through Franschhoek and down Helshoogte and into Stellenbosch.

The inaugural ride ends at Stellenbosch 360 tomorrow (18 May), with riders estimated to arrive at 3pm.

The route is now open year round, to cyclists wishing to undertake the venture on their own programme. Riders are encouraged to take it at their own pace, stopping in at the wealth of accommodation options all along the route.

To download the map and for more on the route, please visit www.capecycleroutes.co.za

Media Enquiries: 

Bronwynne Jooste

Spokesperson: Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities

Responsible for Tourism, Economic Development and Agriculture

Western Cape Government

Physical Address: 142 Long Street, Cape Town

Tel: 021 483 3550

Cell: 060 970 4301

Email: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

Twitter: bronwynnejooste