The Rise of Gravel Racing: Enter the Garden Route Giro Gravel Race
Gravel racing has seen tremendous growth in recent years, with standalone events and series gaining popularity. Now, the sport is set to welcome its first truly world-class gravel stage race: the Garden Route Giro. This six-day event will take competitors through South Africa’s breathtaking Southern Cape, featuring challenging ascents over some of the country’s most iconic gravel passes and the renowned hospitality of Dryland Event Management.
When and Where: Mark Your Calendar
The inaugural edition of the Garden Route Giro is scheduled for Summer 2026, with entries opening a year prior, in Summer 2025. According to Henco Rademeyer of Dryland Event Management, extensive planning has been underway for two years to perfect this event. “We have a lot of experience hosting mountain bike stage races, and we’ll be bringing that expertise to gravel racing, blending it with elements of road racing,” Rademeyer stated.
Race Details: Challenging Stages and Special Jerseys
The 2026 race will begin in George, the Garden Route capital, taking participants through a 700-kilometer route across coastal plains, mountain ranges, and scenic gravel roads. Highlights include:
- Stage 1: George to Riversdale
- Stage 2: Riversdale to Calitzdorp over the Langeberg mountains
- Stage 3: A climb over the iconic Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert
- Stage 4: The Queen Stage from De Rust to Knysna
- Final Stage: A rolling finish back to George
The event will feature special jerseys for the general classification leaders, best climbers, sprinters, and top contenders in age categories.
Gravel and Asphalt: The Route
The race’s terrain will consist of both gravel and asphalt, with 25% of the route on tarmac. However, the key climbs will take place on gravel, and the high-quality roads of the Garden Route, Hessequa, and Klein Karoo will offer smooth, well-maintained paths. Riders familiar with the Prince George 100 Miler event will appreciate the exceptional gravel conditions in the region.
Exceptional Hospitality and Entry Options
Dryland Event Management is known for providing top-tier hospitality, and the Garden Route Giro will be no exception. Supported by Biogen Sports Nutrition, the race will feature well-stocked water points and a variety of entry options.
Riders can opt for a standard entry, which includes six days of racing, race apparel, course support, medical services, post-stage lunches, and VIP after-party access. Additional options, including camping upgrades, luxury accommodation packages, and sports massage services, will be available. A race village will also offer services such as mechanics and massages, which can be pre-booked through the event website.
A World-Class Experience Awaits
“Dryland and our partners are thrilled to provide a world-class gravel racing experience for both local and international riders,” Rademeyer promised. The Garden Route Giro aims to challenge elite athletes while remaining achievable for well-trained amateurs. Drawing from 20 years of experience, Dryland Event Management is confident the first edition will be a groundbreaking event in gravel racing history.
For more information and updates, visit www.gardenroutegiro.co.za.