As someone who is not South African, getting to experience the roads in and around Cape Town still feels very surreal. The view of Lion's Head as you descend Suikerbossie. The lookout above Camps Bay. Stopping at Bootlegger for the tastiest banana bread, and where the parking bays are filled with bicycles instead of cars. It really does not get much better than that.
My first time riding in Cape Town was in 2024. I joined the CIOVITA Wednesday morning ride, which rolls out from Woodstock at 6:00am and heads along the coast. Although I recognised a few friendly CIOVITA faces, I was still nervous turning up on my own. Within minutes of arriving, I was welcomed by such a warm and friendly community. I do not think I have ever seen so many chatty and genuinely happy people at that hour of the morning.
Cape Town’s landscape is dramatic in the best possible way, with mountains dropping straight into the sea. If you are lucky, you might even spot dolphins just offshore (keep your eyes open if you ride Chapmans Peak and Hout Bay).
The coastal route is a classic for a reason. From the city, you follow the coast past Camps Bay towards Llandudno, before tackling the Suikerbossie climb. From the top, you can turn back towards town with unreal views of Lion’s Head on the descent.
For a longer day, you can continue through Hout Bay, and stop for a midride coffee and pastry at South Yeaster. From there, you can climb towards Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the most iconic road in the country! The climb itself is around five kilometres, winding along the cliffs before opening up to insane views over the ocean and Hout Bay. The kind of spot where everyone stops for a photo, so you will always meet some cycling friends up here!
The descent towards Noordhoek is honestly one of the most beautiful descents I have ever done. I still remember the first time riding it and thinking I had never seen water that blue in my life. It looks almost tropical from above. While the Noordhoek Beach might look tempting for a swim, I’ve been told that it is icy-cold (still on my bucket list though!).
From Noordhoek you can keep going along the peninsula, through Simon's Town and all the way down to Cape Point. And, my favourite part about this route, it is not unusual to pass baboons or even ostriches on the side of the road (HOW cool!).
I would always recommend joining a group rather than heading out alone, and I am so happy to tell you that... The Cape Town cycling community is unlike anywhere else! Capetonians love a good ride, but they love a good chat and vibe just as much. There are plenty of organised rides each week, including the CIOVITA Wednesday ride from their Woodstock HQ, and make sure to stay for the coffee after the ride..
If you ever get the chance to ride here, take it. Be aware, stay safe and soak in all the goodness the people and the environment has to offer. The scenery is extraordinary, but it is the combination of the roads and the people that makes cycling in Cape Town so special
By Mikaela Nillson
