Port Elizabeth is fast becoming one of the best cycling cities in the country, with a number of fabulous trails in and around the major urban areas of the Friendly City. Due to the varied terrain, these trails present a combination of hills, steep ravines, rocky sections and easy-riding stretches that show off the stunning landscape and Eastern Cape vegetation. This province is also known for its temperate weather conditions; with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Hopewell Conservation Estate is a nature reserve and a housing estate situated along old Cape Road in Greenbushes (near St Albans). This means that it is only a few minutes from the city centre, while still being nestled within the unspoilt serenity of the bushveld. It has been designed to be the homely retreat for busy professionals and community leaders that appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the Eastern Cape countryside.
The urban nature reserve covers some 3 000 hectares of what was once farmland and is now under the conservation management of Shamwari Wildlife.
New mountain biking and trail running routes were established throughout Hopewell in December 2012 and have been remarkably popular amongst local sportsmen and –women. These are safe and accessible, situated within the secure wilderness that is so beautiful. Breathe in the fresh country air and feel the sunshine on your back as you negotiate these fun trails with friends and family. Along the way, look out for eland, kudu, red hartebeest, springbok, Cape mountain zebra and plenty of birdlife (of which there are about 130 different species).
The vegetation at Hopewell is also remarkable, with four of the Eastern Cape’s seven biomes to be found within the reserve. It includes grassy fynbos, subtropical thicket and wetlands. This variety makes Hopewell the ideal habitat for a number of wildlife species.
There are three trails, each of which offers a unique cycling experience. These are 1) a 12 kilometre social ride, 2) a 35 kilometre intermediate trail and 3) a 50 kilometre option for cyclists who want to challenge themselves and test their technical skills.
The gravel roads are of a good quality and have been built along the natural contours of the land. This gives riders a very natural experience of the topography and geography of the Eastern Cape landscape. Soak-aways have been implemented at regular points so that these roads are manageable in any weather conditions.
More Info:
For more information, contact Lex on 083 342 8306 or lex@hopewellconservation.co.za.
No Comments