Heading to the Western, southern or Eastern Cape this summer season? Here are a handful of trails you should run.
Robberg Peninsula, Plettenberg Bay
The reserve caters for all skill and fitness levels with three distances (2.1km, 5.5km and 9.2km). All routes traverse the edge of the spectacular Robberg point and cut across the peninsula at different points.
The long route is 100% singletrack. It is technical and features slippery rock gardens and sections that require clambering. The views (on all the routes) are spectacular and you should look out for seals, dolphins, whales and even white sharks patrolling off shore.
The route is well marked with little seal signs and, although all the difficult areas have ropes and steps as aids, take on the 5.5km as a starter if you're not in peak shape or confident on rocks.
Something to consider is that there are no streams on route so you have to carry your own - we suggest a hydration pack for the long route. There is cellphone reception for the most part and emergency numbers are well displayed at regular intervals.
Sleeping beauty, Riversdale
So, in geographical terms, the 12km up-and-down route on the iconic 'Sleeping Beauty' mountain near Riversdale is not a coastal trail, but if you're on holiday in Stil Bay or surrounds it makes for the ideal day trip.
Says ASICS FrontRunner Jani Du Toit who ran has run it: "My favourite part of the route was the summit – The entire route is up-up-up and when you get to the top the view is definitely rewarding. On the one side it looked flat and past the mountains you could see kilometres into the Klein Karoo, with the other side being completely covered in clouds – it felt like we were on top of the world!"
According to Jani there is a small tin box hidden between rocks on the summit. "Upon opening it we found letters, poems and notes written by people who had climbed the mountain over the years. It was really special to see. We wrote our names down, and felt proud to be part of the history of Sleeping Beauty!" *(Anyone know any more about this Geo Cache?) Read more about that run, here.
The Outeniqua Mountains, Eden District
Fast turning into a cult favourite on the trail circuit is George Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT). The event is held annually and offers something for all trail runners with four distances, (60km, 42km, 25km and 9km). The long route boasts everything from big climbs, rocky trails, technical downhills and views all the way to the sea. It is a year-round trail running destination though, with various groomed, well-marked trails.
The mountains and trails (groomed and non-technical) are almost alpine in style, meaning that trail runners such as Toni McCann use it to train for the long, runnable climbs needed for the festival of UTMB races in Chamonix, France.
"The trails are smooth and steep, with the views offering layers and layers of mountains and rolling hills," says Toni. "It's a special place and the running community out in George are always so warm, welcoming and up for an adventure. If you head out there, be sure to give the 6 Peaks FKT route a go, or the Vertical Kilometre a crack (1000+m of elevation in under 5km), a real leg burner but the view from the top is well worth the climb."
Constantia Nek, Cape Town
If you've run Lion's Head, Devil's Peak and up the face of Table Mountain, why not change it up by exploring what Constantia Nek has to offer. There is something for everyone, from a straight-forward 5km loop, up to 60kms (if you combine various loops). There are always many people out enjoying the trails here which means its safe and the vibes are good.
Cape St Francis Beach, Eastern Cape
Beach running is not for everyone, but if you are on the coast this summer, it is definitely worth a go. Get a few pointers here. You can run on any beach, of course, but the beach at Cape St Francis must be one of the most spectacular (and popular). Most runners run from Surfer's Car Park to Shelly Beach on the far side. The distance is just on 2,5km, so a return run will give you a good 5km of sand running. As with most beaches it's tough on high tide (soft sand) but a breeze on low tide.
Any special trails to add?
