Wilton Guest Farm MTB Trails in Middleton, Eastern Cape (original) (raw)

Where: outside Middleton, 24 km south of Cookhouse (on the way to Bloemhof and De Mistkraal Dam)
Level: moderate to advanced
Type of route: some single track, but mostly jeep track and gravel road
Best: great all year round

Wilton Guest Farm is far from any major city � 148 km from Port Elizabeth, and 98 km from Grahamstown. But over and above the breakaway it promises, it also has four great mountain bike routes.

The blue 23 km route is the shortest of the four, but not the easiest (if you want easy then take the green route). The route has a rocky climb followed by a challenging curved descent. This route is aimed at those who are starting out but enjoy something a little more demanding.

The green 29 km route is a perfect family ride. It follows the main gravel road between three farms, is not at all technical, but is an interesting and scenic ride. This loop lies to the south of Wilton farm.

The Red 38 km route tries to include all the major sights on the farm, and throws in more than a few challenging sections � up and down rocky slopes, over the Fish River channel and through dry river beds. An intermediate ride.

The Black 45 km route is the most challenging, and thus the ride for active mountain bikers. It combines the best of the red and green routes, and some. Rocky descents can get tricky.

Off the bike enjoy hiking, camping, quad biking and other farm activities, or a picnic at the dam. Herds of kudu and gemsbok share the grounds with you.

The Karoo setting is tranquil, peaceful and beautiful. Time well spent.