Somerset and stellies trail help

[Butterbean]

So, I've tried mtb previously and given up. Sold up my bike and stayed on the road where I belong.

 

But, wet roads, cold mornings, and crappy drivers have pushed me to dirt again.

 

Last time round I tried more jumpy, downhill, and Enduro type stuff that I frankly wasn't good at, and just didn't enjoy.

 

So, I need some help. I've got myself a hardtail 29er and gonna give XC a proper bash.

 

I joined the wannabees and will give their trail a good bit of exploration, and it seems tame enough for what I'm after - a pure dirt roadie experience.

 

One trail that looks particularly smooth and long distance is paradyskloof and it's extensions. But, I don't know anyone who's ridden there before.

 

Can someone help me out and give me a good trail explaination? Firstly, am I correct that they're XC and dirt roadie appropriate, and secondly, a detailed description of where to enter the trail, what the loop would look like, distance, and maybe even a map of the trail with some direction arrows so I don't anger any of the cool mtb cats?

 

I'm far too fat and unfit to bother someone by trying to tag along on a ride, so some mapping and info so I can Toodle along it would be brilliant!

 

Thanks!

[funnyman]

Lots to explore around Paradyskloof, although it is geared towards more technical riding. There is some jeep track, but this just connects the fun singletrack sections, which are filled with rocky sections, jumps, etc. If you want to explore it, go to the Eden Forest Parking. There is a map and various arrows from there. (https://goo.gl/maps/AJaS2vhmRM12)

 

The Wannabee trails are great for getting in some distance and there are a few singletrack sections which are not technical. It is well marked. The club ride regularly and split into different groups depending on fitness levels.

 

If you enjoy flowing singletrack, check out Murati/Delheim. They have different routes which you can take as easy as you like. Fun and great for improving skills (if that's what you want). It terms of technical difficulty, it's in between Paradyskloof and Wannabees.

[Christie]

Start on the Wannabees trails around Somerbosch, and Bottelary Hills.

Build some milage there, then go ride Oak Valley - it is a good option.

Next adventures: Perhaps Paul Cluver.

[mtb impi]

Also riding from around Helderberg onto winery rd then up passing Raithby village on the left through the farms then connecting with Annandale, left on Annandale turning right onto the Spier farms, or going straight down to the railway tracks heading for Stellenbosch, a quick espresso, and then back the other way round, Paradyskloof, Louw se bos, back onto Annandale as you came .... Nice time in the saddle, not technical.

 

So many options ....