ACE25 | Stages & Trail Closures

The 2025 Absa Cape Epic has been a true test of endurance, with Stage 3 proving just how unpredictable this race can be. As the race heads deeper into the heart of the Cape Winelands, riders will face some of the most grueling stages yet – while trail users should take note of temporary closures across the region.

🔥 Stage 3: Racing the Heat – and Losing

On Tuesday, 19 March, Stage 3 of the Absa Cape Epic was brought to an early halt due to extreme heat in Paarl. With temperatures soaring to nearly 40°C, organisers made the difficult decision to call off the stage at 14:36, prioritising rider safety. While some competitors managed to complete the full route, for many, the brutal conditions proved insurmountable.

⛰️ Stage 4: The Granite Gauntlet – 20 March

With Paarl Mountain’s ancient granite formations absorbing heat like a furnace, Stage 4 promises to be another punishing test. Covering 80km with 1,950m of climbing, the route takes riders over rocky outcrops, technical singletracks, and relentless ascents before finishing at Fairview.

🛑 Trail Closure:

• Paarl Trails – 🚫 All trails closed for Thursday, 20 March

More information at https://paarltrails.com/epic.

🏔️ Stage 5: The Queen Stage – 21 March

Stage 5 is often called the Queen Stage, and with 98km and 2,850m of climbing, it’s easy to see why. Riders will leave Fairview and cross grueling climbs and technical descents as they make their way to Lourensford Wine Estate, one of the most prestigious finishes in the race.

🛑 Trail Closures for Friday, 21 March:

• Chaloner Trails – 🚫 Closed all day
• Dornier Trails – 🚫 Closed all day

🌄 Stage 6: Lourensford’s Labyrinth – 22 March

The penultimate stage is a challenging 87km loop with 2,550m of climbing, winding through Lourensford’s rugged terrain. With steep ascents, thrilling descents, and exposed sections, this stage is a final chance for riders to make their mark before the grand finale.

🏁 Stage 7: The Grand Finale – 23 March

The final showdown is 64km with 2,100m of climbing, looping through the legendary Helderberg Trails. Riders will weave through Dornier, Ernie Els, Alto, and Stellenzicht, tackling some of the best trails in the Cape Winelands before finishing in Lourensford.

🛑 Trail Closures for Sunday, 23 March:

• Dornier
• Stellenzicht
• Bilton
• Alto
• Ernie Els
• Helderberg Farm Trails
  🚫 All closed for the day of Sunday, 23 March

🏞️ Plan Ahead – Trail Users Take Note!

With the Cape Epic weaving through the Wine Lands Trails network, we encourage all riders to respect the closures and plan alternative routes.

🔗 For more details on the race and route, visit: Absa Cape Epic Route.

Stay safe, stay hydrated, and whether you’re racing or spectating, enjoy the action! 🚴‍♂️🔥