The Ceder
📍 Nuwerust Farm, South Africa
gravel
Date
14 February 2026
Distance
68km · 151km
Elevation
2,285 m
Difficulty
gravel
The Dirty South Gravel Race
Western Cape, South Africa · 23–25 October 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
This is a three-day, approximately 250km gravel race featuring unique stage racing with 'flat-out' segments across rolling hills and farmland in South Africa's Western Cape. It offers a fully supported adventure for those seeking a challenging and distinct cycling experience.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 250km
- Elevation
- 3,135 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3–3.8
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is for experienced gravel riders, explorers, and those who thrive on multi-stage competition with timed segments and comprehensive logistical support.
Who will struggle
Riders unaccustomed to multi-day efforts, sustained 'all-out' segments, or extensive gravel and dirt roads will find this race particularly challenging.
Training focus
Training should concentrate on building endurance for multi-day events, developing power for rolling terrain, and improving anaerobic capacity for 'flat-out' segment efforts.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What is the total distance of The Dirty South Gravel Race?+
The race spans approximately 250km over three days, with individual stage distances of 83km on Day 1, 86km on Day 2, and 80km on Day 3.
What type of terrain will riders encounter?+
Riders will primarily navigate gravel roads and dirt tracks, including district roads and routes through private farmlands, featuring rolling hills that become more challenging towards the end of each day.
How is the race formatted?+
The Dirty South is a three-stage event, with each stage featuring two timed segments of approximately 10km. Points are awarded for the top three finishers in each segment (3, 2, 1), and the rider with the most points overall wins the tour.
What is included in the entry fee?+
The R10,500 per person entry fee covers three days of racing, two nights of luxury shared hotel accommodation, all meals, a daily bike wash service, complimentary daily massages, and a Dirty South garment.
What are the start and finish locations for each stage?+
Day 1 starts in Stilbaai and finishes in Witsand. Day 2 begins in Witsand and concludes in Bredasdorp (with transfer to Arniston for accommodation). Day 3 runs from Arniston to Stanford.
What kind of accommodation is provided?+
Night 1 includes luxury shared accommodation at The Breede River Lodge. Night 2 is at the 4-star Arniston Hotel. All rooms are configured as twin rooms for the event.