Paarl, South Africa – 16 November 2024
The Absa Cape Epic Arrives in Paarl for the First Time!
Paarl will host the prestigious Absa Cape Epic, often called the “Tour de France of Mountain Biking,” bringing excitement and global attention to our region.
This legendary race features top riders conquering our challenging trails.
A Community-Wide Celebration!
This event is not just for the riders, it is for everyone. Enjoy pre-race activities, supporter stations, and viewing spots along the route. With impeccably maintained trails and a buzzing atmosphere, Paarl will become EPIC Country!
For Darren Herbst and the Paarl Trails team, this event reflects years of dedication. Since 2017, Paarl Trails has become a leading cycling destination with over 200 kilometers of trails built in partnership with the community.
2025 Cape Epic around Paarl:
· 18 March: Riders arrive from Durbanville to Fairview Farm.
· 19 March: Stage 3 – a challenging 90km with a 2,600m elevation gain, starting and finishing at Fairview.
· 20 March: Stage 4 – 74km with 1,750m elevation, again based at Fairview.
· 21 March: Riders depart Paarl for Somerset West, continuing their epic journey.
The race village at Fairview and Spice Route Destination will let participants and spectators experience Paarl’s unique trails, natural beauty, and local attractions. It’s more than a race – it’s a celebration of our community and cycling culture!
We will host a series of exhilarating events leading up to the Cape Epic:
25th–26th January: Western Cape Downhill
2nd–3rd February: UCI Cat 2 XCO
28th February–2nd March: UCI Cat 1 XCC & XCO
16th–21st March: Absa Cape Epic!
As a small team dedicated to excellence, we are focused on delivering unforgettable experiences at every event. After careful consideration, we have decided to postpone Bike Fest during this busy season to concentrate all our efforts on making the Cape Epic in Paarl the best event ever. Bike Fest will not take place in March 2025, and we will announce more details soon. Stay tuned!