Dirty South Gravel Race

The Dirty South Gravel Race 2026

Just 100 lucky souls will snap up an entry. Do it. Do it now.

Event schedule:

Rock up and ride - we take care of everything else.

Day 1.                 (Stilbaai to Witsand)

The stage starts from the Old Harbour in Stilbaai and after a short neutral section heads onto the beautiful coastal gravel roads of the Agulhas Coast.

The route is primarily along district roads with a few ‘in and outs’ through private farmers' land.

The rolling hills take their toll towards the end of the day, so leave some juice in the tank.

Day 2.                (Witsand to Arniston)

We leave Witsand and again, after a short neutral section, hit the farmland gravel while we make our way to Arniston. 

Just before midway, you'll cross the mighty Breë River on the Pont at Malgas.

After the crossing, some more amazing gravel and the clear blue waters of Arniston awaits.

Day 3.                (Arniston to Stanford)

Will be an all-out effort as we wind through the Overberg farmland before veering inland, over the mountain to Stanford.

RACE INFO:

• Participants need to enter as a 2 man "Team". However, don't get confused: even though you enter as a "Team", you race Solo. The reason for the "team" entry is simply to choose your roommate. Because there are only 50 twin Rooms available in each hotel, riders need to share a room.
• There will be a Rotary car shuttle service available for those who want to leave their cars at the start in Stilbaai and have them delivered safely to the finish in Stanford - details of this additional service to follow.

Race format:

· 3 stages

• Each stage has 2 (+- 10kms) racing segments. Points for segment position are awarded (1st = 10 points | 2nd = 9 points | 3rd = 8 points etc). 
• The Rider with the most points at the end of the tour wins

Day 1: 23 October 2026 - 83 km - Stilbaai to Witsand

· 10:00 race starts in Stilbaai's Old Harbour (Start time TBC)

·           race finishes at Breede River Lodge – Witsand

· 13:00 check in and freshen up

· 13:30 lunch on the deck

· 18:00 meet for pre-dinner drinks & day 2 briefing

· 19:00 dinner to be served

Day 2: 24 October 2026 - 86 km - Witsand to Arniston

· 06:00 meet for breakfast

· 08:30 race starts in Witsand

·           race finishes at The Bastion Quarters' oasis in Bredasdorp

· 13:00 beers, burgers and braai at the oasis

· Transfer to the hotel

· 18:00 meet for pre-dinner drinks

· 19:00 dinner to be served

Day 3: 25 October 2026 - 80 km - Arniston to Stanford 

· 06:00 meet for breakfast

· 07:00 transfer to Bredasdorp

· 08:30 race starts at Bastion Quarters

·           race finishes at Stanford Hills Winery

· 12:00 The Awards Ceremony

Accommodation:

Night 1 - The Breede River Lodge

Luxury shared accommodation at The Breede River. Right on the water. Large shared rooms.

Night 2 - The Arniston Hotel

The 4-star Arniston Hotel speaks for itself. Magnificent views, a superb bar… and a delightful menu. Large rooms shared.

What's included:

• 3 Days of Gravel Bliss
• 2 Nights Luxury Hotel Accommodation 
• All Meals
• Complimentary Massage after Stage 2.
• Bike Wash daily 
• Dirty South Garment