Cycling

🚴‍♂️ Cycling Adventures in De Rust, Western Cape

De Rust, nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, is a hidden gem for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you're into mountain biking, gravel grinding, or scenic road cycling, this charming Karoo village offers something for every rider.

The area boasts a variety of cycling routes that cater to different fitness levels and preferences. From short, leisurely rides to challenging long-distance routes, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the quiet roads and minimal traffic make it a safe and enjoyable destination for cyclists.

🏞️ Why Cycle in De Rust?

• Diverse Terrain: From gravel farm roads to tarred mountain passes.

• Scenic Beauty: Ride alongside the Swartberg Mountains, through poorts, and past waterfalls.

• Low Traffic: Quiet country roads make for a peaceful and safe cycling experience.

• Local Attractions: Combine your ride with a visit to the Meiringspoort Waterfall or a stop at Ray’s Coffee Shop for a legendary burger

Cycling Tips for De Rust

• Best Time to Ride: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal, especially during the warmer months, to avoid the midday heat.

• Stay Hydrated: The Karoo can get hot, so carry plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

• Safety First: Always wear a helmet, and carry a repair kit for emergencies, there are devil thorns in some areas.

Relax at De Rusty Farm After Your Ride

After a day of exploring De Rust’s cycling routes, unwind at De Rusty Farm, your home away from home. Our guest house offers comfortable accommodations, a peaceful garden,  a swimming pool, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Routes from De Rusty Farm (Strava)

1. De Rusty Farm: Middleplaas Light Route: Strava

18km gravel route with 167m elevation gain. About an hour ride.

2. Dysseldorp Loop: Strava

18km mixed surface route with 153m elevation gain. Just under an hour ride

3. De Rusty Farm -> Middleplaas -> De Rust: Strava

22km mostly gravel route with 256m elevation gain. Just over an hour ride

4. De Rusty Farm to Cowdung Hill Loop: Strava

22km gravel route with 259m elevation gain and the infamous Cow Dung Hill segment. A 5,1% average gradient over 1.46km.

5. De Rusty Farm to Meiringspoort Waterfall: Strava

37km tar route with 399m elevation gain. An hour and half ride. It is mostly uphill all the way to the waterfall and downhill all the way back to De Rusty Farm.

6. De Rusty Farm: Oudtshoorn Loop: Strava

Just over 84km route with around 1,215m elevation, this takes around 5 hours. Starting at De Rusty Farm you cycling the Oudemuragie road which comes out on the Cango Caves main road. You then cycle towards Oudtshoorn and just after Buffelsdrift Game Lodge you turn left on the Velgelegen Road which will bring you back to De Rust.

🌄 Top Cycling Routes in De Rust

1. De Rust to Oudtshoorn (72 km)
   A scenic ride through the Klein Karoo with moderate elevation changes—perfect for road cyclists looking for a longer route 

2. De Rust to Calitzdorp (108 km)
   A more challenging route with over 1,100 m of climbing, ideal for experienced cyclists 

3. Passes Tour 17 (40 km)
   A shorter loop with beautiful views and gentle gradients, great for a relaxed ride 

4. Rust en Vrede Waterfall Route (Gravel Grinder)
   A stunning eBike and MTB route that takes you past sheep farms, through narrow poorts, and to the breathtaking Rust en Vrede Waterfall 

5. Meiringspoort Challenge Route
   This route follows the famous Meiringspoort pass, known for its dramatic rock formations and river crossings. It’s also the site of the annual Meiringspoort Challenge, a popular MTB and trail running event

De Rust Cycling in Pictures