Embarking on a motorcycle trip is an adventure that offers a unique perspective on the landscape and the world around us. One such journey that provides breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences is a trip to Malgas Pont, Witsand, and Struisbaai in Western Cape South Africa.
Starting from our starting point, Cape Town, the first leg of our journey takes you on the N2 highway towards Sir Lowry’s Pass, up the twisting turns and the inclination of Sir Lowery’s pass.
Sir Lowry’s pass
As an adventure motorcyclist, Sir Lowry’s Pass is one of my favorite destinations in the Cape, this mountain pass is named after Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole, is a crucial link between Cape Town and the interior of the country, and it provides a thrilling and scenic ride for riders like myself.
The pass rises to an elevation of 918 meters above sea level, and its winding road, complete with numerous hairpin bends, offers an exhilarating ride (when there is little traffic) with stunning views of False Bay, Table Mountain, and the Hottentots Holland mountain range.
Initially built as a track, then narrow road, Sir Lowry’s Pass has been upgraded several times in my lifetime (since spending some years in Elgin as a kid), to accommodate the increasing traffic volumes. Today, the tarred road is in excellent condition, making it an enjoyable ride for motorcyclists who are looking for a scenic and challenging ride.
the Old Postal route between Houhoek and BotRivier.
Its not a particularly challenging ride but for the novice, or beginner adventure rider, it has the possibility to bite you if you are not wary, ask me… As the sweeper of the group, watched as if slow motion, while another rider in front of me ceremoniously departed the two tracks. Fortunately the motorcycle was arrested by the bushes, and the rider came to a standstill thanks to the bushes providing a soft cushion. Group was thinking “some start to the day, only and hour in and first off.”
An hour or so later and a lot of pulling with a tow ropes and brut force we managed to recover bike, it started fine, after standing for a short while and we were on our way.
The old postal route between Houwhoek and Botriver was an important route used for mail delivery in the Western Cape province of South Africa during the 19th century. It was established in 1848 and was in use until the early 1900s when it was replaced by more modern means of transportation, just as exciting at speed, but not adventurous as the old track.
The route originally covered a distance of approximately 17 kilometers and passed through rugged mountain terrain and dense forests. It was a challenging journey for the mail carriers who had to travel on foot or horseback and had to brave the elements and the dangers of the wilderness, it’s also a challenging journey for adventure riders and 4×4 enthusiasts. It is a popular hiking trail, and visitors can explore the rugged mountain terrain and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape
Botrivier to Napier
Caledon to Napier
Napier To Bredasdrop
Bredasdorp to Cape Agulhas
Cape Agulhas to Malgas via, Bredasdorp
This historic pontoon ferry is the only one of its kind in South Africa and is located on the Breede River. The ferry is a unique experience in itself, transporting both vehicles and passengers across the river, with the assistance of the powerful current.
The Malgas pont spans over the Breede River and was the only remaining hand-operated pontoon bridge in the country, recently it has become a newer Diesel powered pont. The bridge was built in 1884 and originally used a system of pontoons to ferry people, goods, and livestock across the river. In 1915, the bridge was upgraded to its current suspension design, with a hand-operated pulley system used to move the platform across the river. Today, the Malgas pont is a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a unique glimpse into South Africa’s transportation history.
Malgas to witsand
Starting off at Malgas Pont, we exit this unique experience, it is a must-do for any rider seeking something off the beaten path. The pontoon is operated by a team of local workers who use their strength to guide the vessel across the river. As you make your way across the water, take in the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings of the riverbanks.
Witsand – a hidden gem
After crossing the river, the journey continues towards Witsand. Known as the “whale nursery of South Africa,” Witsand is a haven for whale watching enthusiasts, where southern right whales come to breed and give birth during the winter months. Visitors to Witsand can witness these magnificent creatures up close from the shore or by boat. It is also home to the impressive Breedezicht Estate, which features stunning ocean views and modern amenities. This is a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a light snack before continuing the journey.
In addition to its natural beauty, Witsand also has a rich history,the town was established in the early 1900s as a fishing village, and many of its original buildings still stand today.
Moving onto struisbaai
Leaving Witsand, the next destination is Struisbaai. The town is famous for its picturesque harbor and pristine beaches. The scenic drive along the coast takes you through small towns and villages, each with their unique charm and character. The Agulhas National Park, located near Struisbaai, is home to the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
The park is a popular destination for visitors, offering a wide range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and water sports. The lighthouse, located in the park, provides stunning views of the rugged coastline and the ocean. The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, which is the second-oldest working lighthouse in South Africa, is also one of the most important beacons on the continent, as a visitor you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding area.
The route from Malgas Pont to Witsand and Struisbaai is a thrilling adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes,its got winding and scenic roads, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, allowing you to take in all the sights and sounds of the area.
When planning your motorcycle trip, this journey can take a few days, depending on your pace, and it is essential to plan and prepare for the trip, be sure to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly. This area can experience strong winds, so be aware of this between Struisbaai and Bredasdorp.
In conclusion, a motorcycle trip to Malgas Pont, Witsand, and Struisbaai is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of South Africa’s natural beauty and charm. So, pack your bags, hop on your motorcycle, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
