Laborie XC Bucket

The Experience:

Embark on a guided XC adventure that highlights the premier trails on Paarl's southern side, featuring landmarks like Laborie, the reserve, BMW, Bethal, The Wall, Diamant, and the Taal Monument. This route is a medley of terrains.

The emphasis is on single track and XC landscapes, ensuring an engaging ride. Post our morning ritual of coffee and muffins, we ascend the Laborie trail, transition onto the Paarl Mountain gravel path, and venture into the reserve. Along the way, breathtaking vistas accompany a steady ascent into the reserve's core. Post our pause at Krismas camp, we approach the pinnacle of "the Wall" – a gravity-driven trail spiraling down to Spice Route, replete with fluidity and intriguing elements.

Our journey then pivots to the thrill-infused Diamant trail, leading us to the sought-after Advocate and Skillie flow trails. These paths gracefully descend into the valley, ushering us onto the Bovenland trails, where we halt for a brief respite. Our next challenge? An ascent to the Taal Monument, culminating in a refreshing 3-kilometer downhill stretch to our starting point at Laborie.

Enhancing the experience, a pit stop awaits at the cherished Karoo-themed diner, Knus Karoo Kombuis.

About Laborie: 

Nestled at the foot of Paarl Mountain is Laborie, a historic wine estate in the core of Paarl. It's an epicenter of activities and offers arguably the most striking view of Paarl Mountain.

Wander up the Avenue, and you'll encounter Stoep, the estate's quaint bistro-style eatery. With panoramic views of lush vineyards and majestic mountains, it's a treat for the senses. Open daily, Stoep prides itself on offering scrumptious breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, all centered around local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients.

Guests can pick up a variety of Stoep's offerings, including handcrafted pasta, desserts, and ready-to-eat meals at the Estate's Farm Grocer. Dedicated to uplifting local enterprises, the Farm Grocer offers a selection of fresh bread, meats, cheeses, home goods, and of course, wine.

And, since Laborie is a wine estate, wine aficionados can indulge in wine tasting sessions at the historic Manor House. There, you can savour Laborie's finest wines, complemented by a curated cheese or charcuterie board.

Find more information including the route profile here: https://paarltrails.com/experience/laborie-xc-bucket/