Somerset West is a wonderful base for mountain biking, or ATB (all-terrain bike) as many of our Dutch guests say. Within a short drive of Villa Helderberg you can ride farm loops with views of False Bay and Table Mountain, groomed single track through vineyards and oak forests, and the famous trail networks of Stellenbosch and Elgin. Here are the best mountain bike trails near Somerset West, and what to know before you ride.
Helderberg Trails: a loop for every rider
Our closest recommendation sits on a private farm in the foothills of the Helderberg, halfway between Somerset West and Stellenbosch in the Raithby area. According to Bicycle South, there are four loops: a 4 kilometre green loop for beginners, a 6 kilometre blue loop, a 14 kilometre red loop for experienced riders and a 17 kilometre black loop for advanced riders. Views stretch over False Bay, Table Mountain and the Stellenbosch vineyards. Day permits and helmets are required, and the kiosk serves coffee, breakfast and cakes. Families will like the bike wash, braai facilities and petting zoo, and you can read more ideas in our guide to things to do with kids in Somerset West.
Helderberg Farm: views of Table Mountain and False Bay
Helderberg Farm, off the R44 on Klein Helderberg Road, is another local favourite. SA-Venues describes a 10 kilometre circular route that takes around an hour, with a mix of gravel, tarmac, paving and single track and some good climbs and descents. Other guides rate parts of the farm as intermediate to difficult, so check the trail you choose. Cape Town Tourism also lists hiking sections on the farm, which pairs nicely with our guide to the best hikes in Somerset West.
Stellenbosch: Jonkershoek, Bottelary and Simonsberg
Stellenbosch is one of the Cape's mountain biking capitals, and it is a comfortable drive from us. Jonkershoek, about 9 kilometres from town, offers challenging routes over mountainous terrain. Mountain biking takes place on the adjoining forestry land, which is managed by MTO Forestry and charges its own fee. Parking and access arrangements have changed, so check before you go. For gentler rides, the Bottelary Hills trails combine vineyards, fynbos and single track with wide views, and the Simonsberg trails wind across wine farms and forests, with restaurants at some trail heads. The Mont Angelis guide gives a good overview, and permit details vary from area to area.
Oak Valley in Elgin: groomed single track
Over Sir Lowry's Pass, Oak Valley Estate has blue, red and black routes designed for all skill levels by trail pioneer Pieter Visser. You ride through old oaks, vineyards, orchards and cattle pastures, with the Groenlandberg mountains in the background. The estate is known for groomed single track and has hosted stages of events such as the Absa Cape Epic and FNB Wines2Whales. Trails are open daylight hours all year, except during events and stormy weather, and you need to book online and sign an indemnity form. There is a bike wash, showers and secure parking.
Lebanon Forest near Grabouw: forest, fynbos and orchards
For variety, try the trail network at Back 2 Basics in Lebanon Forest. SA-Venues lists a 7.3 kilometre yellow route (easy), a 10 kilometre green route, a 17 kilometre blue route and a 23.6 kilometre red route for advanced riders, as part of a 60 kilometre network through orchards, mountain fynbos and forest. Helmets are compulsory, riders register on arrival, and the trails are open from 7am to 7pm.
Tips before you ride
Check each venue's website for permits, booking and opening times before you set off, as rules and access change. Wear a helmet, carry plenty of water, a repair kit and sun protection, and avoid muddy or stormy days. After the ride, treat yourself to lunch at one of our favourite wine estates, or read about our new KolKol wood-fired hot tub and lapa with bar. Planning to bring your bike? Please get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
What does ATB mean?
ATB stands for all-terrain bike, the Dutch word for a mountain bike. The trails in this guide are for the same kind of riding, on bikes with wide tyres and suspension.
Which trails suit beginners and families?
Look at the green loop at Helderberg Trails, the blue route at Oak Valley and the easy yellow route at Lebanon Forest. Start on the shortest loop and build up.
Do I need a permit to ride?
Usually yes. Most farms and reserves sell day permits at a kiosk, at the gate or online, and some require a booking in advance. Check each venue's own website.
Can I hire a bike?
Bike hire is not available at every trail, so check with your chosen venue in advance. For more adventure ideas, see our guide to adrenaline activities near Somerset West.