is This SA’s Toughest Gravel Race?
ceder gran fondo
UCI Gravel World Series Qualifier: 151km of river crossings, soft sand, fast gravel, brutal climbs & screaming descents. Start at Nuwerust, pass Oasis, Cederberg Wines, Uitkyk and Nieuwoudts Passes, Olifants River &Driehoek Farm. Earn UCI spots; race gravel at its fiercest.
THE ROUTE
SEE THE 2025 RACE BRIEFING HERE
The Ceder Gran Fondo delivers the ultimate racing experience with a dynamic course that includes river crossings, soft sand, fast smooth gravel, challenging terrain, rough corrugation, steep climbs, and rapid descents. The route features thrilling descents and breathtaking views, showcasing the Cederberg’s unique character—gravel racing at its best.
When: Saturday 21 February 2026
Start Time: 07h30am
Distance: 151km
Elevation Gain: 2500m
Aid Stations: 6
Cut-off: 16h00
Nuwerust venue opens on Friday from 12h00. It will not be open before this.
Designated as South Africa's official qualifying race for the UCI Gravel World Championships 2025, this event allows elite and amateur riders to compete under UCI regulations for a chance to earn the coveted UCI rainbow jersey through global qualifiers. The top 25% of finishers in these qualifiers secure their spots at the UCI Gravel World Championships, which features participants from 18 countries and approximately 30,000 competitors globally. Notably, only 27 events worldwide are selected to be part of this series.
The Ceder Gran Fondo begins at Nuwerust Farm, where riders navigate a few winding turns and cross a low water bridge before passing the original venue, Cederberg Oasis. Take a moment to salute the iconic smiley face sign! The route features a short climb from Oasis, followed by a rapid descent that leads over two more low water bridges, usually flowing with Cederberg water. After passing through Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve, riders ascend toward the vineyards of Sanddriff and Cederberg Wines, encountering a challenging 35km stretch before a stunning descent down Uitkyk Pass.
After a feed zone, riders tackle Nieuwoudts Pass, enjoying spectacular valley views before embarking on a lengthy descent toward the Olifants River. Following the riverbanks, they will climb after Clanwilliam Dam into Keurbos. Following the infamous "Jamaka Rollers," participants will find the unofficial third water point at the Jamaka Kiosk, serving refreshing frozen orange juice. The final ascent up Uitkyk Pass demands determination, leading to a left turn into Driehoek Farm. The road here can be rough and bumpy, with dynamic turns and a final river crossing, including some soft sand before returning to the main gravel road and heading back to the Nuwerust finish line.
OFFICIAL FEED ZONES
🙂 21km Cederberg Wines (Cut-off: 18:00)
🙂 46km Algeria / Nieuwoudts Pass (Cut-off: 18:00)
🙂 62km Kriedouwkrans Bridge 4-Way (Cut-off: 13:00)
🙂 99km, Jamaka Kiosk 🥤 (Unofficial Waterpoint)
🙂 103.5km, Algeria Waterpoint (Cut-off: 16:00)
🙂 120km Driehoek Farm / Ferguson's Rest (Cut-off: 17:30)
Feed zones and waterpoints will be stocked with water, Coca-Cola, bananas, sweets, and Red Bull. Riders can receive assistance from private helpers or teams within officially marked feed zones and outside these zones, provided the following rules are followed:
- No feeding from moving vehicles
- No feeding on downhill sections
- Helpers/feeders must not park in the road and must adhere to all road rules at all times
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR ENTRY?
ENROUTE SUPPORT
Waterpoints are run by volunteers serving water, Coca Cola, snacks and even koeksisters! Official Vehicles and sweepers are on hand to help if you need a break or can’t continue.
RACE BAG
With every race entry, receive an exclusive Ceder Race bag packed with goodies and gifts from our fantastic sponsors!
ENTERTAINMENT
Enjoy music and race commentary, a fully stocked finish‑line bar and lapa, barn fires, braais, swimming in the pool and river, plus lively post‑race festivities and prize‑giving to celebrate your ride!
RACE TIMING
All riders will receive a timing chip with their race numbers to accurately track their race times and personal progress.
MEDICAL SUPPORT
A professional medical team will be on call throughout the race, with an ambulance, 4x4 support en route, and a staffed medical station at Nuwerust ready for any emergency.
medal
Every finisher of The Ceder receives a completion medal, and riders who qualify under UCI criteria are awarded an official UCI medal.
ABLUTION FACILITIES
Relax with hot showers at Nuwerust’s permanent campsite ablutions. Additional communal kitchen wash-up stations are available outside the ablution blocks.
OPTIONAL TENTS
Ultimate Convenience: No Packing or Pitching Tents! Opt for a pre-setup tent and enjoy a stress-free weekend. From simple single tents to spacious double tents equipped with beds, bedding, towels, chairs, and lights. Add this as an upgrade to your entry and focus on the adventure! (Included in Packages)
OPTIONAL MEALS
Travel light! All meals from Friday dinner to Sunday morning can be added to your entry, along with tented accommodation. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hassle-free Cederberg Adventure weekend. (Included in Packages)