The best cycling routes in Gauteng

Kate Rau – 28 December 2011

Photograph: AndyArmstrong

Are you a cyclist? A mountain biker? An average Joe who just wants to get out of the house and explore something new? If so these cycle routes are just for you.

They’re not difficult rides for the professional mountain biker, but are fairly easy trips through scenic areas of Gauteng that you can do alone, or with a group of friends. Plus you won’t always need your own bicycle.

The Braamfontein Spruit route that traverses Gauteng’s northern suburbs is flat and easy, and also manageable for kids. You can choose where you want to start, so the route distance depends on you. Go in a group for safety, and if you’re doing a casual ride take a picnic basket and stop off for a bite.

The Northern Farm cycle routes are graded for your level of experience, and offer cyclists the ideal way to spend a few hours in nature. The routes are well marked and you might spot small wildlife species on your ride. Northern Farm is only open on weekends and public holidays, and as always ride in a group.

The Kingskloof Blue Route at Laurentia Farm near Krugersdorp is mostly flat, which makes it suitable for the family and for those not up to a very challenging ride. You’ll be in the great outdoors without feeling as though you’re tackling the Groot Trek.

For something a little different, head out to Soweto and hire a bicycle for the day. Soweto Bicycle Tours mixes history and cycling and offers a superb way of touring one of South Africa’s most popular tourism sites. There are several routes, ranging from a two-hour ride to a full day’s cycling, depending on your fitness level and what you’d like to see. Plus you don’t need to own your own bicycle.