WHERE WE’ RE GOING
BURN CAMP HOST: MERINO FARM
The deeper you head into Nedbank Gravel Burn, the wilder the ride becomes. The hospitality is always warm and welcoming, but the race villages start to take on the rugged personality of the Great Karoo.
Like Blaauwater, Merino Farm – helmed by Willie Jordaan – is far away from the tourist hotspots but still offers the necessary comforts. The nearest town is Cradock( officially Nxuba), known for its wool industry and beef, dairy, fruit and lucerne farming. Cradock also holds a unique place on the South African map – it is the geographical midpoint between Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, and in years gone by, it served as a popular stopover for travellers journeying by ox-wagon, who replenished their supplies here before pressing on.
You’ re deep into merino sheep territory here, which is fitting as these sheep are highly adaptable, much like the gravel bike rider. Keep your eyes on the road and the scenery; on test rides, the Nedbank Gravel Burn team spotted gemsbok, impala, springbok and more.
STAGE 5 137km 158Om 147Om
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2000m
1800m
1600m
1400m
1200m
1000m
800m
BLAAUWATER
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Wapadsberg Pass 1730m |
Swaershoek Pass 1616m |
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MERINO |
0km 10km 20km 30km 40km 50km 60km 70km 80km 90km 100km 110km 120km 130km 137km
55 % PAVED 45 % UNPAVED LIAISON PADSTAL RAILWAY CROSSING SUMMIT
FINISH
A NOTE FROM ROUTE DESIGNER, STEVE THOMAS
“ I have spent years bikepacking, guiding tours and exploring the Eastern Cape by bike. That is why I knew it was the right place for the Nedbank Gravel Burn.
The Karoo is often misunderstood. People think it is flat and empty. The truth is completely different. The landscape changes constantly, from rugged mountains to rolling hills and long quiet roads that seem to stretch forever. The small towns add their own character, and the hospitality here is unmatched. I have shared more coffee and rusks in this region than anywhere else in South Africa.
For riders the route will be demanding but rewarding. They will climb iconic passes, experience views that change with every turn, and ride alongside kudu, springbok and wildebeest that still roam wild and free. That combination of challenge and beauty is what makes this race so special.”
46 NEDBANK GRAVEL BURN