Outdoors

Greyton’s untouched fynbos and pristine mountains offer among the best outdoor experiences in the country. From easy morning strolls with Cape sugarbirds as company to high-elevation hikes among the peaks, and then, of course, the famous mountain bike trails that snake through the hills.

HIKING & WALKING

Hikers and botanists come from far to sample all the Riviersonderend mountain range has to offer. Whether it’s to scale the lesser known peaks towering above town, or just a quick hike before the morning market up to Zig-zag to take in the views, there’s something for hikers of all fitness levels.

TRAIL RUNNING

With trails and views this good it’s anyone’s guess why there are so few runners on the Greyton trails. The routes range from technical and exposed mountain trails to flowy fast sections where runners can let loose. And the best of all, you likely have it all to yourself.

THE BOESMANSKLOOF TRAIL

The Boesmanskloof trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the country, and it’s easy to see why. The starting point is right here in Greyton, a short hop from Cape Town. The trail winds through the deep and untouched Boesmanskloof gorge, past Oak Falls, before you hike up and out to Die Galg, where overnight accommodation sits perched right on the edge of the gorge. Most hikers stay over in Greyton on Friday, start the 14km hike on Saturday morning, and make the 14km trek back the next day. View Boesmanskloof Trail map and brochure

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Boneshaker, First Bench and Bakenskop are some of the better-known routes in town, and all offer something different. If it’s technical black-graded trails you’re after, Bakenskop Black’s got you covered. If you want an easy pedal through some gentle winding trails, take a tour through the Sandpit, where even the little ones on their bikes will manage. And for the gravel enthusiasts, countless miles of country roads will keep you cruising.

ALIEN CLEARING

Greyton Conservation Society has over the years gone to great lengths to preserve the unique fynbos habitat in the reserve and surrounds, with local NGO Wild Restoration adding their efforts in recent years. Do your bit for the environment by joining their monthly hacks and other conservation activities. Sometimes, there’s tea and cake as reward for your efforts.