With just under 40 days until the 2024 FNB Wines2Whales sets off, we’re calling on riders of all skill levels to challenge a friend, partner, or significant other who has the spirit to tackle the Race with Gees with you!
To enter, simply tag your preferred teammate in the comments of our latest post on Instagram and Facebook for a chance to win an entry into any of this year’s thrilling events: Chardonnay, Pinotage, or Shiraz. Every tag enters you into the draw, and the winner will be announced next week!
The FNB Wines2Whales race not only offers breathtaking routes through some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes in the Western Cape but also brings the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork to life with its signature “GEES.” From vineyards to mountains, this event pushes participants whilst delivering an unforgettable experience.
Start tagging and get ready for the challenge!
How ready must I be? Well take a look at the route to find out!
Stage 1: 64km | 1300m Climbing
The adventure kicks off at the historic Lourensford Wine Estate, setting riders on a scenic journey to Oak Valley Estate over the historic Gantouw Pass.
The first challenge of the day is a steady climb up to the Neck, where riders can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Helderberg basin … and as every climb promises, a thrilling descent awaits. Riders will enjoy the exhilarating drop down Bryan’s se Brander, a descent filled with sweeping berms that flow smoothly into the Toyota Cruise Section. Here, the Tower of Power – a swirling bridge – adds a touch of fun and adventure, sure to bring smiles before reaching the first waterpoint of the day.
The journey continues across the stunning landscapes of Vergelegen, heading toward the beautiful vineyards of Idiom. At waterpoint 2, riders have the opportunity to recharge and prepare for the famed Gantouw Pass. The portage here offers a unique experience, adding an element of adventure and camaraderie as riders make their way up together on foot.
Reaching the top, riders are rewarded with the A-Z trails, winding down to the serene Eikenhof Dam. Flowing singletracks and welcoming farm roads guide riders to the final highlight of the day—the Waterfall Trail.
A swift descent from here brings riders to a warm welcome at the race village at Oak Valley Estate, where they can celebrate the completion of Stage 1, relax, and savour the renowned Wines2Whales hospitality.
Stage 2: 67km | 1250m Climbing
Stage 2, known as the traditional “Playday,” makes an emphatic return, brimming with excitement and flavour. Many trails have been carefully rebuilt and crafted to perfection after the floods of 2023.
The adventure begins with a climb to cherished classics like Vissie’s Magic and Sound of Silence, setting the stage for a day filled with a variety of mountain biking highlights. A journey across the scenic Cow’s Trail and Witklippies leads riders to the descent of Rietvlei Magic, where adrenaline meets flow, offering a ride as smooth and satisfying as a well-aged vintage.
A steady ascent brings riders to the newly rebuilt Pofadder and Berg Adder combo, a combination of fun that’s sure to delight. Waterpoint 2 at Paul Cluver is a chance to refuel before the climb up to the top of Tierkop. Here, more excitement awaits with the playful berms and turns of Trunk, leading to a crossing over to the Amphitheatre and Waterpoint 3.
The final stretch of Stage 2 captures the essence of why we ride. The Harrier Hawk and Long Way Home trails deliver a perfect blend of adrenaline and speed, the ideal finish to a day as rich and full-bodied as a premium reserve wine, filled with pure GEES and unforgettable moments.
Stage 3: 66km | 1200m Climbing
After two days of unmatched riding, Stage 3 leads riders to an exciting new finish line at the picturesque Benguela Cove.
The day begins with some early morning challenges, featuring farm road climbs and quick kickers that add some spice to the start. The scenic singletrack of Koppie Alleen soon unfolds, offering a taste of the trails to come. Riders must hold to their handlebars and partners as they navigate the tricky Houw Hoek Switchbacks, dropping down to Waterpoint 1.
From here, it’s a fast descent down Kat Pas, weaving through the charming town of Botrivier. Riders will then tackle the renowned Wildekrans trails, winding their way through to Waterpoint 2 at Genevieve MCC.
Crossing over the Steelbridge, the route brings you to the familiar terrain of the Kawwyders Contour and Gaf se Bos trails. The course then shifts gears, climbing up to Church and passing through the newly built Escape Raz, the Toyota Cruise section of the day.
Finally, riders reach the freshly crafted Benguela Trail that leads to the splendid finish at Benguela Cove. Here, amidst the vineyards and overlooking the water, a well-deserved celebration awaits.
Three days of camaraderie, stories, and adventure now lie behind you, a cherished vintage that will only grow richer with time!
Want to learn more?
Get all the details on how to enter, what to expect, and the full route HERE.
