Stage 3
Saronsberg, Tulbagh – CPUT, Wellington
104km, 2 150m climbing 

Into the valley

A transition stage – linking one stage location to another – with a difference. After the rugged climb on the remote tracks of the Waterval climb riders will cross the Zuurvlakte – a pan fringed by mountains that looks like it belongs in a Western movie. The Zuurvlakte reserve has only just been opened again after devastating fires (but which did have the effect of regenerating the fynbos and Proteas) and this sandy and rocky section will include the day’s Land Rover Technical Terrain. A little while later it’s on to the tar and the long climb up the Bain’s Kloof Pass, a national monument, before a twirl around the highly-regarded Welvanpas trails near Wellington. Riders new to the Welvanpas network will get a rude introduction to the 'WTF?' climb and some sharp ascents, but will also get to enjoy weaving descents such as the breathtaking 'Super G'.