Route overview

One Line That Changes Everything

2027 Absa Cape Epic Route

701km | 17150m Climbing

Elite Women: 576km | 13900m Climbing

The 2027 Absa Cape Epic will draw a new line across the Western Cape. Stretching more than 700 kilometres from Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West to the final finish line at Imbuko Wines in Wellington, the route connects three iconic host regions, world-class trails and over 17,000 metres of climbing into one unforgettable journey. Riders will take on the highest point ever reached in race history on Waboomsberg in Ceres, experience the legendary trails of Eselfontein, journey through the valleys and mountains of the Witzenberg, and settle into the race village at Saronsberg in Tulbagh.

From there, the route heads across the rolling landscapes of the Swartland and Riebeek Kasteel before building towards the Queen Stage and the legendary Cliffhanger in Wellington, ahead of one final push to the finish line. But the line on the map tells only part of the story. Every rider arrives with a different story, yet all are transformed by the line they choose to cross. For eight days, two riders will share a journey shaped by challenge, perseverance, and discovery. Every climb, descent and decision will leave its mark, until the only line that matters is the one waiting at the finish.

The line that changes everything.

Entry Info

2027 Route Links

Want to know what to expect? Check out the 2026 Absa Cape Epic Route for a taste of the trails, climbs and adventure ahead.

Route Article

Prologue

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 4

Stage 5

Stage 6

Stage 7

One Line. Changes Everything

PROLOGUE

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The 2027 Absa Cape Epic begins at Lourensford Wine Estate, where months of preparation meet the first turn of the pedals. A clockwise loop through the Lourensford bowl takes riders up Pinot Stairs and the N4 climb before descending through the new Rock Wall berm. The Toyota Tough Section at Schoeman’s demands early focus, followed by Big Switch and the run to the first finish line of the week.
The Prologue sets the tone for the journey ahead. The finish is still far away, but the first line has been drawn.

Prologue

The Decision

Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West

Distance: 27km | 1050m Climbing

Rating: ★★

21 March 2027

Stage 1

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The 2027 Absa Cape Epic opens with a demanding 120-kilometre stage through Ceres, building towards Waboomsberg, the highest point in the race’s history. After Old Theron’s Pass, the relentless climb rewards riders with sweeping views of the Koue Bokkeveld before a technical descent through Kaleo’s rugged sandstone trails. The route returns via historic Old Gydo Pass.
Waboomsberg sets the tone for the race, testing preparation, perseverance and the strength of every partnership from day one.

Stage 1

The First Question

Ceres to Ceres

Distance: 127km | 2,450m Climbing

Distance Elite Women: 103km | 2,150m Climbing

Rating: ★★★★★

22 March 2027

Stage 2

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Stage 2 heads east from Ceres towards Eselfontein, where three distinct loops deliver a varied day of technical trails and challenging climbs.
The route opens with a singletrack climb above Death Drop before tackling Dead Man Walking, Baboon’s Highway and the rocky Pipeline descent, the day’s Toyota Tough Section. The final loop skirts Eselfontein Dam as fatigue begins to set in. Stage 1 sparked the excitement; Stage 2 tests confidence, strengthens partnerships and reveals the challenge that lies ahead.

Stage 2

The Response

Ceres to Ceres

Distance: 103km | 2,050m Climbing

Distance Elite Women: 83km | 1,750m Climbing

Rating: ★★★★½

23 March 2027

Stage 3

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Stage 3 takes riders from Ceres to the new race village at Saronsberg in Tulbagh, crossing the Ceres Valley, Old Gydo Pass, the Bokkeveld Plateau and Skurfberg.
The route descends into a hidden valley of orchards and farms before climbing towards Die Eike and Witzenberg Ridge. The Toyota Tough Section delivers a technical finale on the historic Wagon Trail descent before riders head towards Saronsberg. Big mountains, hidden valleys and legendary singletrack define this stage, where the race grows in scale and the challenge deepens.

Stage 3

The Rhythm

Ceres to Saronsberg, Tulbagh

Distance: 87km | 2,250m Climbing

Distance Elite Women: 56km | 1,100m Climbing

Rating: ★★★★

24 March 2027

Stage 4

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Framed by the Groot Winterhoek and Witzenberg ranges, Stage 4 combines five climbs and descents across the spectacular Tulbagh Valley. Oakhurst opens the day, followed by God's Window, the Kilprivier trails, Schoonderzicht and the famed Bone Trail. Changing terrain and the African sun add to the challenge, testing riders’ endurance and resolve.
By halfway, success depends on more than fitness. Patience, partnership and perseverance become essential as the demands of the race continue to grow.

Stage 4

The Turning Point

Saronsberg, Tulbagh to Saronsberg, Tulbagh

Distance: 96km | 2,550m Climbing

Distance Elite Women: 64km | 1,650m Climbing

Rating: ★★★★½

25 March 2027

Stage 5

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Stage 5 is a test of patience and teamwork as riders leave the Tulbagh Valley for the open gravel roads of the Swartland. Exposed to the wind and endless horizons, partnerships become essential.
Through Riebeek Kasteel, the route climbs Kasteelberg and Eight Feet before tackling Riebeekberg’s Toyota Tough Section. The long ride towards Wellington follows, with Patatskloof delivering one final challenge before riders reach Imbuko Wines. Open and unforgiving, this is a stage where success depends as much on teamwork and resilience as riding ability.

Stage 5

The Crossing

Saronsberg, Tulbagh to Imbuko Wines, Wellington

Distance: 114km | 2,350m Climbing

Rating: ★★★½

26 March 2027

Stage 6

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Stage 6 is the Queen Stage, with The Cliffhanger at its heart.
From Imbuko Wines, riders tackle a series of demanding climbs, including Hawequa, Seven Peaks, Aap d’Huez, Angel’s Tears, DNF and Brandslangnek. After six days of racing, fatigue sets in, making every ascent a greater challenge.
The highlight is The Cliffhanger at Canetsfontein Wine Estate, an iconic series of exposed switchbacks carved into the mountainside. Full Monty, Route 66, Unhappy Hog and the Golden Mile then lead riders towards the finish at Imbuko Wines. With the finish line in sight, the Queen Stage demands one final test of endurance, skill and teamwork.

Stage 6

The Cliffhanger

Imbuko Wines, Wellington to Imbuko Wines, Wellington

Distance: 83km | 3,100m Climbing

Distance Elite Women: 65km | 2,500m Climbing

Rating: ★★★★★

27 March 2027

Stage 7

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The Grand Finale may be the gentlest stage on paper, but after eight days of racing, every kilometre counts.
The final climb to Groenberg and Luislang gives way to the fast, flowing trails of Welvanpas, including Bull Run and True Grit. Through Doolhof Wine Estate, supporters lift tired legs before one last descent on Blazing Saddles brings riders home to Imbuko Wines. More than 700 kilometres of effort, sacrifice and teamwork lead to this final crossing. For every team, the finish line marks a personal victory, earned one kilometre at a time.
It'll be The Final Line. Eight days of challenge, resilience and belief culminate in one final moment. Every climb, every descent and every kilometre shared has led here. The finish line is no longer a distant goal, but a hard-earned reality.