It’s not every week you get to spend five days on a bike touring through some of the most scenic parts of the Western Cape. The Tour de Braai is a five day tour by gravel from George to Swellendam. Marketed as “the most relaxed multi-day cycling stage ride in South Africa” it’s all about holiday vibes, fun and of course braaing with the man himself Jan Braai.
At the summit of the Montagu Pass
Day One – George to Oudtshoorn
After a festive night of free flowing beer and wine, Karan beef steaks and curious conversations we set off on our first day of Tour de Braai.
The route for the first day took us over roughly 70km from George to Oudtshoorn via Montagu Pass. Some light overnight rain dampened the roads just enough to settle the dust and keep the temperatures down as we hit the slopes of the pass within the first thirty minutes.
The iconic Montagu Pass runs between George and Herold climbing approximately 410m over 4.6 kilometers at an average gradient of 9%. First opened to traffic in 1847, this gravel throughway has since been replaced by the tar Outeniqua Pass which runs roughly parallel. This meant almost zero vehicle traffic and ideal conditions for bicycles.
While not too long a climb, the gradient jumps up to 14-16% in some of the steep sections which test the legs. Over the top of the climb we moseyed on to our first stop at Herold Wines where, naturally, we sampled some of their fantastic wines and then enjoyed some incredible chicken sosaties prepared by Jan Braai.
After a hearty early lunch and plenty of wine “tasting” we set off for the remaining forty-five kilometers to Oudtshoorn. The combination of the fuel stop, a steady tailwind and the power of Erik Kleinhans on the front, we made quick work of the remaining section as we rolled through the dry roads of the Klein Karoo.
Arriving in Oudtshoorn a more little sun kissed than when we began we settled into our guest house, kicked up our feet and shared stories from the day. If today is anything to go by we’re in for week filled with fun and inspired taste buds.
Stay tuned for more…
