Gravalist

Hi there! Thought we’d chime in on your thread. Just to clarify, the entire yearly subscription is R2,979 - that's access to all eight events, meaning the cost works out to just R372.38 per race! Not bad for a year of adventure, right? Now, about value. At the start and end of every ride, the proof is written all over our riders’ faces. If you’re into mass-start events, water points, hand-holding, knock-off medals, and a pat on the back for showing up, then nope, this isn’t the event for you. But if solo riding, bikepacking, the freedom to explore South Africa’s vast landscapes, and finishing a ride with nothing but grit, determination, and the big blue sky above you sounds like your idea of a good time, then welcome home, you’ve found your tribe. We’re not just focused on the “Top 3 Winners”, we’re about community. The Gravalist 500 brings people together. Over a weekend, shared gravel, and a collective love for conquering the road less travelled. For us, its more than just another race on the calendar; it’s a way to connect with like-minded individuals who crave adventure and personal challenges. Honestly, I don’t care if you come first or last, break an FKT, or sleep in a hotel every night. What I do care about is creating a space where people can find themselves and a community that feels like home. As someone else here mentioned, this might not be your kind of ride, but for plenty of others, this is exactly what gets their gears turning. Feel free to check out what our riders have to say for themselves. Here's a great story from one of our legendary vasbyters: >> https://gravalist.com/stories/braving-the-elements-claudia-richard You can also view our calendar and registration process here >> https://gravalist.com/stories/2025-calendar

Event Name: Egoli 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 27/12/2025 - 30/12/2025Where: Johannesburg, JohannesburgJohannesburg, GautengCategory: GravelThe Egoli 500 is a bikepacking adventure that will take you across this stunning region, where adventurers have come to roam to find riches and create a legacy. We want to show you the best it has to offer on two wheels, from culture to industry, and immerse you in the rich history. This self-supported bikepacking event is designed to challenge you on many levels, mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s going to push limits and send you on a journey of self-discovery that will open your mind and give you a better understanding of who you are and what you can do. The Egoli 500 is a hand-picked route from local experts. It's 500 km long. Some choose to race and be the first to finish, while others enjoy the journey over a long weekend. How you want to enjoy the kilometers is up to you, but after the start, it’s completely self-sufficient. So take your adventurous spirit and dare to dream. Find your fortune on the Egoli 500, travel in the tracks of many other adventurers, and embrace the journey through a beautiful region full of history and times past. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Franschhoek 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 26/12/2025 - 28/12/2025Where: Franschhoek, FranschhoekFranschhoek, Western CapeCategory: GravelThe Franschhoek 500 is a bikepacking gravel experience that takes you on a breathtaking 500km journey through the Western Cape’s most iconic landscapes. Starting in the charming town of Franschhoek, riders will explore rugged backroads, scenic vineyards, and stunning mountain passes. The route winds through the Elgin Apple Valley, past rolling orchards, and into the picturesque village of Stanford. Riders will traverse remote gravel paths, pass through small historic towns, and face the legendary Franschhoek Pass — a challenging climb with unforgettable panoramic views. Expect a true adventure filled with endurance-testing climbs, thrilling descents, and unmatched scenery. Whether you're racing or touring, the Franschhoek 500 promises an epic ride and a deep connection to South Africa’s natural beauty. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Ceres 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 07/11/2025 - 09/11/2025Where: Ceres, Ceres, Western CapeCategory: GravelThe Ceres 500 is a bikepacking experience that takes you deep into the rugged beauty and rich history of the Cederberg region. Spanning 520km with 6,450m of climbing, this epic adventure promises stunning mountain views, ancient heritage sites, and thrilling gravel passes. Ride through the heart of the Cederberg’s untamed landscapes, tracing routes shaped by oceanic activity and history. Conquer iconic challenges like the legendary Dasklip Pass, with its dramatic switchbacks and breathtaking views over the West Coast. Steeped in stories of the Koi San people, early settlers, and hidden treasures, the Ceres 500 is more than a race — it’s a journey through time and terrain. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Cape Hope 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 10/10/2025 - 12/10/2025Where: Cape Town, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, Western CapeCategory: GravelGet ready for the adventure of a lifetime with the Cape Hope 500, an ultra-endurance gravel bikepacking race starting from the iconic city of Cape Town. This isn’t just another 100km ride — it’s a 500km journey through South Africa’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, designed for riders seeking the ultimate gravel experience. The route takes you from the shores of Cape Town’s beaches to the rugged beauty of the West Coast, winding through farmlands and remote gravel paths toward Tulbagh. Riders will face the legendary ascent of Bains Kloof Pass, power through relentless headwinds, and navigate technical trails through the Table Mountain National Park. Expect detours, adventure loops, and ever-changing terrain that will challenge your endurance, strategy, and spirit. With its mix of coastal roads, mountain passes, and untamed wilderness, the Cape Hope 500 offers an epic bikepacking experience like no other. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Sedgefield 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 12/09/2025 - 14/09/2025Where: Sedgefield, GroenvalleiSedgefield, Western CapeCategory: GravelEmbark on an unforgettable adventure through South Africa’s breathtaking Garden Route with the Sedgefield 500, an ultra-endurance gravel bikepacking race that combines raw challenge with unparalleled natural beauty. Covering 500 kilometers of diverse terrain, this epic journey takes riders from Sedgefield through lush forests, rugged mountains, and along pristine coastal stretches. The ever-changing landscapes will keep you inspired as you push through remote backcountry trails, scenic passes, and untouched wilderness. Expect steep climbs, technical descents, and rugged gravel roads that will test both your physical endurance and mental resilience. Every grueling ascent is rewarded with awe-inspiring views, while every descent brings you closer to personal triumph and discovery. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Burra 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 13/06/2025 - 16/06/2025Where: Pietermaritzburg, PietermaritzburgPietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-NatalCategory: GravelExperience the ultimate test of endurance, strength, and mental grit at the Burra 500, a four-day ultra-endurance gravel bikepacking event starting in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Scheduled for June, riders can expect cool winter temperatures paired with some of South Africa’s toughest and most rewarding terrain. The adventure kicks off in Pietermaritzburg, known for its historic charm and scenic surroundings. Riders will journey through rolling hills, lush valleys, and remote farmlands of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, passing through quaint villages and experiencing local hospitality along the way. The route includes a demanding ascent into the iconic Drakensberg Mountains, promising a true test of endurance rewarded by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Riders will face challenging climbs, technical descents, and rugged backcountry gravel roads throughout the event. Finishing back in Pietermaritzburg, participants will celebrate not only completing one of South Africa’s toughest bikepacking challenges but also conquering an unforgettable journey through diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Clarens 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 31/01/2025 - 02/02/2025Where: Clarens, Clarens, Free StateCategory: GravelDiscover the untamed beauty of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and the surrounding landscapes with the Clarens 500. This extraordinary bikepacking event covers 500 km of rugged back roads between Clarens and the hidden gem of Bethlehem, blending the charm of the countryside with the vastness of South Africa’s highlands. The route offers a true farm-road experience, filled with remote gravel tracks, expansive views, and an atmosphere of adventure. Riders can choose between the ultimate 24-hour endurance challenge or a more measured three-day journey, making strategic decisions about rest stops and resupply points along the way. Whether you race the clock or explore at your own pace, the Clarens 500 promises a challenging and unforgettable adventure through South Africa’s breathtaking “Golden Shadow.” Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Rhodes 500 - Gravalist SeriesWhen: 24/01/2025 - 26/01/2025Where: Rhodes, Rhodes, Eastern CapeCategory: GravelDistance: 412 km | Elevation Gain: 7,530 m Experience an extraordinary bikepacking adventure through the remote and rugged landscapes of the Eastern Cape. The Rhodes 500 tests endurance, planning, and resilience as riders navigate isolated routes, including the iconic Tenahead – Tiffindell Traverse (TTT). With limited resupply points, riders must carry up to 6L of water and essential nutrition, considering a two-day race/tour strategy. The route features breathtaking views around Mount Fletcher, remote gravel passes, and high-altitude climbs reaching 2,700m. Expect a demanding, self-supported challenge where safety, strategy, and preparation are key. Full route details will be released two weeks before the event. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Egoli 500When: 06/12/2024 - 08/12/2024Where: Johannesburg, JohannesburgJohannesburg, GautengCategory: GravelWhether it's pushing your boundaries or savoring the ride, the experience is yours to shape. The Egoli 500 is a bikepacking adventure that will take you across this stunning region, where adventurers have come to roam to find riches and create a legacy. We want to show you the best it has to offer on two wheels, from culture to industry, and immerse you in the rich history. This self-supported bikepacking event is designed to challenge you on many levels, mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s going to push limits and send you on a journey of self-discovery that will open your mind and give you a better understanding of who you are and what you can do. The Egoli 500 is a hand-picked route from local experts. It's 500 km long, and entries are limited. Some choose to race and be the first to finish, while others enjoy the journey over a long weekend. How you want to enjoy the kilometers is up to you, but after the start, it’s completely self-sufficient. So take your adventurous spirit and dare to dream. Find your fortune on the Egoli 500, travel in the tracks of many other adventurers, and embrace the journey through a beautiful region full of history and times past. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Cape Hope 500When: 11/10/2024 - 13/10/2024Where: V & A Waterfront, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, Western CapeCategory: GravelWhether it's pushing your boundaries or savoring the ride, the experience is yours to shape. The Cape Hope 500 is set for 11th - 13th October, at 06:00 in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa.    Set in the heart of Cape Town, this incredible journey is designed to test your limits, spark your spirit of exploration, and take you through some of the most breathtaking and historic landscapes in South Africa.   From the West Coast beaches to the legendary Bains Kloof, this isn’t just another ride. It’s 500 km of rugged terrain, iconic views, and endless self-discovery.   Secure your spot before entries close on 16th September 2024. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Burra 500When: 14/06/2024 - 16/06/2024Where: Hilton Pietermaritzburg, LeonardHilton, KwaZulu-NatalCategory: GravelThe Gravalist Series: Unsupported Ultra Cycling Gravel Bike Packing Events. 2023 will see three self supported 500km gravel races, in pure SA gravel heaven. First on the Calendar is the Burra500 - a self-supported bike packing race taking place in the beautiful KZN Midlands. From June 17th to June 20th, participants will tackle a grueling 515km course with an elevation gain of 10,000m, starting and finishing in Pietermaritzburg. This winter event is not for the faint-hearted, as riders will be required to carry all their own gear, food, and supplies for the duration of the race. With no support stations along the way, participants must be prepared for all weather conditions and ready to push their limits. You get a route gpx file and you ride it your way. Do it over the full 60 hour cut-off and stop where you like, or test your mettle and ride it non-stop. There is no prize money or assistance on route. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Rhodes 500When: 31/01/2025 - 13/02/2025Where: Rhodes, Rhodes, Eastern CapeCategory: GravelRhodes stands as a testament to those who dared to venture into South Africa’s Highlands. Many people have ventured into the landscape for an unforgettable experience and to find adventure. The Rhodes 500 is a bikepacking event that recreates that journey and is one of the top routes from the Gravalist.  Cycling through diverse terrain, a rich tapestry of landscapes from lush green valleys to rocky mountain ridges amidst the dramatic scenery of the Drakensberg and Maluti Mountains. The route is remote, where only the sound of birds echoing and the whirring of your bicycle wheels run through the pristine air.  Through the journey, we aim to challenge not just your physical endurance but also your mental resilience and spirit. It’s a journey of self-discovery and the process of becoming a better cyclist and opening your mind to new places and cultures. The Rhodes route is 500 km, and the race is limited to 13 participants. You will meet them at the start line, and once the timer finishes counting down, you will each take on the journey, but the adventure will be different. The Rhodes 500 is not just a cycling route. Discovery, endurance, and camaraderie will leave participants inspired and exhilarated. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Franschhoek 500When: 27/12/2024 - 29/12/2024Where: Huguenot Memorial Monument, Franschhoek, Western CapeCategory: GravelIn the heart of the Western Cape, where vineyards whisper tales of centuries past, a different kind of adventure unfolds. The Franschhoek 500 Ultra Cycling Bikepacking Gravel Race, unlike the typical wine tour ride, is a daring exploration of the world's most exquisite gravel cycling roads. The Challenge: This is not a leisurely pedal through vineyard-lined paths. It's a test of grit, stamina, and the sheer thrill of conquering challenging terrain. With only 150 kilometers on smooth tarmac, the majority of the Franschhoek 500 Ultra Cycling Bikepacking Gravel Race spans over the region's finest gravel roads, promising an exhilarating journey for the daring cyclist. The Terrain: While 500 graces the event's name, it's not a smooth tarmac adventure. The route introduces riders to the rugged embrace of gravel roads, testing their mettle against the very essence of the Western Cape's diverse landscapes. Each turn brings a new challenge, demanding a dance between man and machine. The Resupply Dilemma: As riders push their limits, they'll discover that resupply points are a rare oasis in this arduous journey. Limited provisions add an element of strategy, forcing participants to calculate their moves wisely. In the midst of the race, the pursuit of sustenance becomes a race within a race. A Symphony of Busy Season: Amidst the grueling ride, participants will find themselves in the midst of the Western Cape's busy season. The air is electric with the vibrancy of summer, offering a sensory feast of sights and sounds. Cyclists become witnesses to the region's liveliness as they pedal through the dynamic landscape. Emotional Peaks and Valleys: The Franschhoek 500 is not merely a physical challenge; it's an emotional rollercoaster. The undulating terrain mirrors the highs and lows of the riders' emotions. As they ascend, conquer, and descend, the landscape becomes a mirror to their own journey — a reflection of determination, triumph, and, perhaps, a hint of struggle. The Culmination: The journey is not just about covering kilometers; it was about embracing the spirit of adventure, immersing in the untamed beauty of the Western Cape, and experiencing the soul-stirring challenge of the Franschhoek 500 Ultra Cycling Bikepacking Gravel Race. Go to Event Page.

Event Name: Egoli 500When: 06/12/2024 - 08/12/2024Where: Johannesburg South, MondeorJohannesburg South, GautengCategory: GravelOnce upon a time, nestled amidst the vast South African landscape, there was a city that would come to be known as the City of Gold, Johannesburg. Its history is a tale of adventure, exploration, and the pursuit of riches that began in the late 19th century. In 1886, the world was introduced to a name that would echo throughout history - Egoli, the "Place of Gold." This precious metal, previously undiscovered, was found on a farm in the Witwatersrand mountain ranges. The discovery of gold in the Witwatersrand marked the birth of Johannesburg as we know it today. It all began when an Australian prospector, George Harrison, stumbled upon small but significant gold deposits on the Witwatersrand in 1886. Word of the discovery spread like wildfire, and adventurers from all corners of the world descended upon South Africa, particularly from Cape Town. These hopeful fortune-seekers embarked on an arduous journey, traversing the rugged terrain and harsh landscapes of the country. Their determination was fueled by the dream of unearthing riches buried deep within the earth. The Witwatersrand mountain ranges, stretching for about 56 kms across the Highveld region of South Africa, concealed immense gold deposits that had formed over millions of years. These mountains became the epicentre of the gold rush. Fortune-seekers, miners, and speculators flocked to the region, transforming the once-sleepy town into a bustling metropolis. Today, Johannesburg stands as a testament to the adventurous spirit of those who dared to dream, explore, and mine their way to prosperity. The city has grown into the largest and most populous in South Africa, serving as a vibrant hub for culture, industry, and commerce. For those who seek a deeper connection with this rich history, there is a unique way to experience it. Cycling a 500km unsupported adventure through the heart of Johannesburg and its surroundings can be a transformative journey. This gruelling but rewarding experience allows participants to retrace the steps of those early adventurers who traversed the South African landscape in search of fortune. Embarking on a journey through the picturesque Witwatersrand mountain ranges while delving into the captivating mining towns that emerged during the exhilarating gold rush allows cyclists to forge a deep and meaningful connection with the past. As they pedal along, cyclists will witness the remnants of the once-thriving gold mines that played an integral role in shaping the vibrant history of Johannesburg. This unsupported adventure is a physical and historical journey, reminding us of the audacious spirit and relentless pursuit of dreams that brought about the "City of Gold." Johannesburg's history is not merely etched in the buildings and streets but lives on through the stories of those who came to this land in search of a brighter future and a fortune hidden beneath the earth. Go to Event Page.