22 October 2016 | Cristine Knight
With the sheer natural beauty of the Cape, it doesn’t take much to get in the car and hit the trails. Here’s our round up of 4 awesome 4x4 routes you’ll love
What’s better than bashing the beach and the bush? Not much! These are the killer trails you’ll want to remember for your next trip.
Worcester, Western Cape
Enveloped in fynbos clad mountains, this reserve offers more than 55km of customised, guided 4×4 trails for all skill levels. It is also home to the Goodyear 4×4 Academy, which runs off-road group training courses covering a variety of terrains. Guests stay in air conditioned ensuite rooms or self-catering sleeps with shared kitchen and braai facilities.
And more: A scenic swimming pool with a view, birdwatching, and beer tasting with the resident brewmaster at their craft brewery and pub.
Clanwilliam, Western Cape
This popular 25km 4×4 trail climbs high up into the mountains. Dubbed the Old Donkey Wagon Trail, the road was initially built by farmers for harvesting buchu. Test your mettle on everything from steep ascents and descents to technical driving sections, where you have to negotiate around and over large rock formations.
There are chalets, rooms and two campsites – one with a swimming pool at the start of the trail; the other at the top of the mountain. There’s also an isolated sandstone shelter with bunk beds built against a rock overhang, with a waterfall nearby.
And more: A farm shop stocking basic supplies.
Citrusdal, Western Cape
These scenic trails wind through fynbos to the summit of a mountain. Test your skills with a wide range of driving conditions, from thick sand and loose rock, to steep, rocky inclines. Most trails are suitable for newbies, but there are also more challenging obstacles for serious 4×4ers. Afterwards, you can pitch your tent on the grassy campsite boasting shady trees, a swimming pool, electricity and tiptop ablutions; or book a bed in a luxury chalet with air conditioning, DStv and your own jacuzzi.
And more: A jungle gym at the campsite will keep your little ones entertained.
Stanford, Cape Overberg
This beautiful route hugs the coast and promises some epic and completely fishing spots for the fishermen.
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