South Africa’s gravel calendar is about to gain a serious new heavyweight. Following an in-depth route recce of the opening half of the course, the inaugural Garden Route Giro has earned glowing reviews from a select group of media, professional and dedicated amateur riders. Slated for 13–18 April 2026, the Western Cape-based gravel stage race promises to bring a fresh, road-racing-inspired dynamic to off-road endurance racing – complete with General Classification, Sprint Jersey and Mountain Jersey competitions.
Paid partnership with Dryland Event Management
As gravel racing continues its rapid rise, Dryland Event Management – one of South Africa’s most established and respected event organisers – has stepped confidently into the space with what is set to become the country’s premier gravel stage race.
COAST TO KAROO – GRAVEL AT ITS BEST
The Garden Route Giro will start at sea level in Mossel Bay and finish back at the coast in Wilderness, tracing a spectacular loop through the Klein Karoo and Great Karoo biospheres. Riders can expect long, demanding days on predominantly high-quality gravel roads, linked by some of South Africa’s most historic and iconic mountain passes – terrain that rewards strength, skill and tactical racing.
While Dryland’s reputation for world-class event delivery will undoubtedly draw riders to the start line, it’s the route that ultimately defines the experience. To put it to the test, a dozen invited riders tackled the first three stages during a recent recce – and the verdict was unanimous.
WHAT THE RIDERS SAID:
Hans Becking
“The Garden Route Giro and the concept of gravel stage racing is something new, something unique. I only did the first two stages, but I saw so many different landscapes – from mountains, to flats, to rolling hills, to steep climbs, to technical sections, to smooth gravel, to bumpy gravel. An amazing mix!
“Also, going into the lovely towns. They are so peaceful. You can race hard on the stages and focus on recovery in the afternoon. People that do this race will be able to go home and tell good stories.”
Nicola Freitas
“It’s hard to beat the views on Swartberg Pass, but also along the river out of Calitzdorp. The Swartberg descent demands real upper-body endurance and technical skill. What makes the Garden Route Giro different is the team-based General Classification combined with sprint and climbing competitions. Dryland is bringing real road-racing energy to gravel – and that’s exciting.”
Tyron Bird
“I’d personally go for a 1x drivetrain for the Garden Route Giro. Although mostly smooth, some rough sections can drop your chain… Gravel descents are mentally and physically taxing – you’re always searching for the smoothest line. The gravel quality is excellent, but the days are long, so proper training is essential. Three days of gravel is harder than three days of mountain biking – there’s no forgiveness.”
Jan Withaar
“Stage 3 is special. That opening kloof is incredible, the rolling middle section just flows, and then you finish on one of the most iconic passes in South Africa. It just keeps getting better. With decent tyres, this route is absolutely gravel-bike friendly – the roads were exceptional.”
Vera Looser
“What I love most is how dramatically the landscape changes. You start near the ocean, move through farmland and rolling hills, then into the mountains and the Klein Karoo. From lush green to dry dust – it’s all there. The gravel was much better than expected, with a great mix of champagne gravel, tar connectors and just enough rough sections to test your skills.”
Catherine Pellow-Jarman
“Swartberg Pass was my route highlight – a beautiful climb with a spectacular descent into Prince Albert. But my race highlight was the Dryland hospitality. They really think of everything. Arriving at a Dryland waterpoint after hot, dusty hours on the bike is always special. And trust me – double-wrap your bar tape. Over six days, your hands will thank you. This event is going to be a cracker.”
Simon Stofberg
“It’s going to be a fast six days that’s for sure! Smooth terrain with rolling hills and some ‘pukable’ climbs in between. I ran 45mm TUFO Granduro tyres, no liners, they were more than enough. I also ran 11/44 at the back and a 48t chainring up front and I personally never ran out of gears not even on Swartberg Pass. No need for suspension, it’s a pure gravel race. Bring your big chainring, deep section wheels and pack light. The aid stations and bidon stations will sort you out!
“I honestly can’t favour a single spot that I loved. It was all incredible. Swartberg Pass was definitely a highlight and Rooiberg Pass. I love feeling insignificant in nature and that’s exactly what you get at Garden Route Giro.”
Stage Breakdown (First Three Stages)
• Stage 1: Mossel Bay – Riversdale 128km | 1 750m elevation
• Stage 2: Riversdale – Calitzdorp 119km | 2 100m elevation
• Stage 3: Calitzdorp – Prince Albert 91km | 2 150m elevation
With world-class organisation, a route that blends speed, strategy and scenery, and a race format that brings true stage-racing tactics to gravel, the Garden Route Giro is shaping up to be one of the most exciting additions to South African cycling in 2026. For full route details and to enter, visit: www.gardenroutegiro.co.za
