![Image supplied: The Cross Cape / Wesgro Cross Cape Map](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/the-cross-cape-cycling-route_0.jpg)
The Cross Cape Cycling Route will offer local and international visitors the best of the Western Cape's mountains, sea views, food and wines along the Garden Route, Klein Karoo, Cape Overberg, Cape Winelands and Cape Town.
New Cross Cape Cycling Route
The new Cross Cape Cycling Route will stretch from Cape Town to Plettenberg bay and will include some of the most scenic parts of the Western Cape.
The route will include road track, mountain trails, jeep and forest tracks.
The first phase of the Cape Town to Southern Cape cycle route, the160km track between George and Plettenberg Bay, is set to be completed by March 2017.
The route caters to all levels of riders and covers a variety of terrain including; single track, gravel roads, district lines and more. The plan with the Cross Cape Cycling Route is to position the Western Cape as the Trail Capital of the World.
The Western Cape already hosts premier cycling races, such as the Cape Town Cycle Tour, the Cape Epic and the Cape Rouleur generate, which is estimated to generate in "excess of R700 million. The new route will give cyclists the opportunity to experience the best of the Western Cape while it also generates revenue for the province.
The development of the new route is being driven by the Western Cape Government, Wesgro, local municipalities and private sector stakeholders in the region.
“This initiative stands to deliver a major economic boost for the Western Cape, and especially for the small towns along the route. Tourism is one of this province’s biggest employers. Project Khulisa has identified it as the fastest growing sector. Currently, 204 000 people are employed in formal jobs in the sector and through initiatives such as the Cape to Plett route, we want to add up to a further 100 000 jobs to the sector. The increased economic activity the route will bring into our region will drive new economic opportunities for residents.”
“Our aim is to position the Western Cape as the Cycling Capital of Africa. By the end of March next year, our goal is to have completed the track between George and Plett. As part of this process, the signage, which complies with international standards, will be erected. We’ll also complete an audit of accommodation, existing cycle tracks and bike shops. Part of our strategy will include launching the route through an international event,” said Minister Winde.
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