Area


Clearwater Trail and cafe

Clearwater Trails boasts a marvellous mix of terrain and scenic views along four custom-built and well-marked MTB trails. Jan Abbott went all out when he designed the routes, making sure there would be something to suit all levels and types of mountain bikers. On your bike Although you will be riding on single-track and jeep tracks for 90% of the time, an occasional stretch of tarmac is now and then used to link sections of the ride. All trail options traverse the calypso coastline of the balmy Indian Ocean, crisscrossing stands of shady coffee trees within the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate.An exhilarating mix of hand-made single-track, jeep track and gravel road constitute a fast and riveting ride. Choose between routes along moderate gradients or attempt a few of the more serious downhill sections if, of course, you are prepared to take on the burn as you climb back up out of the valley!The classic view of the Umtamvuna estuary meets your eyes before you carry on to Spook House Downhill for a white-knuckle ride. Hit the awesome Red Desert for some technical fun and fly onto some wicked single-track through rolling grassland above the D595 with its magnificent views of the river gorge and waterfalls in the nearby Umtamvuna Nature Reserve.Berms, switchbacks, natural ramps, bridges and water crossings all add to the adventure and will test your balance and agility to the max. Conquer Coffee-Bean Uphill before ending off your day with a stunning cuppa Joe at the beanery en route to Clearwater Cabins.Here goes with more of a breakdown of the individual trails:Green Route 4.7km:This easy circuit on farm roads and single-track is ideal for family outings and sprint rides. From the cabins, head from the gate to Mtamvuna Gorge Viewing Deck. Follow the white poles with black arrows and luminous paint to stay on route.Blue Route 11km:This is an easy to moderate circular option along a mix of gravel roads, single-track and dual-track. This trail follows the ridge line with only a few gradual hills, but is more technical than the Green Route.Black route 16km:This tough circuit whips you round on mostly single-track, with the odd bit of tar and gravel road. Ride with care.Red Route 6.3km:This is very technical, so only attempt it with both a proper skill set as well as the right bike. There is a short 2km Red Route option as well.Off the bike Other activities at Clearwater include hiking, walking, birding and bass fishing. Tree identification walks with renowned botanist, Tony Abbott, and guided farm tours can be arranged. Fifteen minutes away, guests can enjoy the casino, restaurants, cinema and live entertainment of the Old Pont Resort and the Wild Coast Sun.Take a lighthouse tour or a deep sea charter. There is deep sea and estuary fishing, golfing, bowls, tennis and squash at the local Port Edward Country Club, arts and crafts, farm stalls, and the beach of course.Stop at Beaver Creek Estate for a grand coffee experience. Anything goes, from great cappuccinos at the Estate Cafe to purchasing a xxselectxxion of 66 fine roasts and blends. The 30-minute Coffee Tour allows you to walk around the plantation with a knowledgeable guide.CONTACT Natalie Abbott, Clearwater Trails and Cabins Telephone: +27 83 549 6710 Email: infoclearwatertrails.co.za Website: www.clearwatertrails.co.za