Entries opened this week for the 2025 Underberg Gran Fondo with riders once again offered a range of races that will give all riding abilities an opportunity to admire the beautiful Berg while enjoying one of the country’s best gravel races.
On July 26th, 2025, the mighty Drakensberg mountains overlooking the Southern Drakensberg town of Underberg will once again become the majestic backdrop to the Underberg Gran Fondo. The beautiful setting has earned the Underberg Gran Fondo the reputation as the most beautiful cycling event in the country, and this is equaled by the passionate desire of the local community to organise an event that matches the spectacular surroundings.
Underberg is already well-known as a centre for adventure sport. In January each year the quaint village hosts a weekend of sporting excellence where mountain bikers, trail runners and canoeists come together for two days of action and entertainment. Recently, Underberg in July is now also well-known for the Underberg Gran Fondo which draws the best gravel riders to the village nestled in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains.
On July 26, the annual event will once again attract the speedy racers who are chasing glory in the long 140km event, but the Underberg Gran Fondo will also host a large contingent of social riders, eager to take in the splendour of the foothills of the Drakensberg as they negotiate the shorter and more manageable 45km and 94km events.
With three distances available to pique the interest of both the racing snakes and the weekend warriors, the event caters for riders of all abilities and fitness levels.
The 140km flagship event is aimed at the fittest and strongest riders looking to challenge themselves on a route that provides a proper test, with a series of rolling hills, long climbs and fast flowing descents.
The shorter 94km route is proving to be a popular option amongst entrants who are nervous about the full 140km route.
At the other end of the scale, the 45km Tour de Farms provides a perfect introduction for those testing their legs on a gravel bike. Easier and more manageable for the average riders, the route still provides the stunning scenery without many of the more testing sections of the route.
Last year Tyronne White emerged from a five-man group to ride away for a convincing win, while in the women’s race, Sanchia Malan, who is coached by White, cruised home in a time of 5:59:24.
Entries for the Underberg Gran Fondo are now open via the MyActive entry portal at https://underberggranfondo2025.myactive.co.za/
