STORMS RIVER TRAVERSE ROUTE
The route will be very similar to 2011 with only a few changes. Final detail in this regard will be available by 1 March 2012.
STAGE 1
Start & Finish: Storms River Village
Distance: 47 km
Total vertical ascent: 680 m
Start time: 08:30
Riders can enjoy a fairly short day in the saddle, but do not underestimate this one. The route takes you in a westerly direction into the lush indigenous forests just above MTO's Lottering plantation. Even though man made, these well preserved forests and jeep tracks create a wonderful riding experience. The route takes a sharp turn to the south, heading towards the ocean, through more forests, past water point 1 to Storms River mouth. The climb of the day starts steeply, unrelenting for 2 kilometers, with the oasis of water point 2 waiting. An easy ride towards the finish caps an interesting first day where the friendly and hospitable faces of your hosts at the Inn awaits.
STAGE 2
Start & Finish: Storms River Village
Distance: 63 km
Total vertical ascent: 860 m
Start time: 08:30
This, the longest day, is definitely the highlight of this years' event. Riders cross the Storms River gorge, travel through the beautiful Bluelillybush plantation onto The Fernery, a 109 hectare forest fern estate and lodge bordering on the Tsitsikamma National Park, where water point 1 awaits. This unspoilt landscape takes riders on a trail hugging the rugged coastline, spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and drop offs to the sea far below. Water point 2 is nestled far above Storms River mouth, overlooking the valley below. Back onto the Storms River pass where the climb takes you back to the village to cherish a well deserved rest.
STAGE 3
Start & Finish: Storms River Village
Distance: 45 km
Total vertical ascent: 790 m
Start time: 08:30
Today's ride starts once again in an Easterly direction through the Storms River gorge taking riders through the beautiful Bluelilies Bush plantation, courtesy of MTO. From here the routes takes a sharp turn to the north, to water point 1, crossing under the national road traversing the southern slopes of the Tsitsikamma mountains. The views are breathtaking, the tracks smooth and easy and the water points an oasis of cold drinks and locally produced fruits and other delicacies.
On their return, riding under canopies of indigenous trees and crossing the fern infested ancient rivers, riders will have the finish in sight - 3 days spent riding and enjoying the magnificent Tsitsikamma area will give the soul time to breathe, until next time…
