Winter is almost over and with this change of seasons comes an avalanche of events. If you, like me, are already itching for summer and feeling a little ‘spring’ in your step… then, Dad jokes aside, you’re going to love these events.
But how do you choose? Relax, you don’t need to — we’ve done it for you. These are the cream of the crop, so make sure you get your paws on tix before they’re sold out.
Namaqualand Flower Festival
When? 6-8 September 2019
Where? Gifberg Holiday Farm, Vanrhynsdorp
What? The is so much more than a festival. First off, there’s a trail run. As a lover of the trails and running, I was already sold. There are also route options (20km, 9km, 4km). Think swimming holes and breathtaking views along the way, plus caves featuring Bushman paintings.
The weekend includes stargazing, yoga, a beekeeping workshop, silent discos, and that’s just a fraction of the line-up. Camping is included in your ticket price, but there are glamping and guest house options available. What better way to celebrate spring than with a festival in the flowers? Get your tickets .
Tough Mudder
When? 19 October 2019
Where? Houwteq Campus, High Rising Road, Elgin
What? Last year I took part in the for the first time and I was blown away. It’s the most fun you can have in a puddle of mud, a pool of ice and the other obstacles along the way. I managed to convince three of my more adventurous buddies to join me and, needless to say, we’re frothing for this year’s event.
There’s a long and a short course (8km or 16km) and each of the routes contains obstacles built to test your grit, teamwork and fitness. You will get dirty, you will get wet, and you’ll most definitely get sweaty! But there are hot showers and cold beers waiting at the end, plus music and merch. Sound like a ? You bet it is – round up a team and now.
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Cape Cross Triathlon
When? 11-13 October 2019
Where? Beginning at Paul Cluver Wine Farm, Elgin
What? Again, I was lucky enough to take part in this triathlon last year – and what made it even more special is the fact that it was the first time the event was held. The is completely unique in that it’s an off-road travelling stage triathlon. That means not one but three triathlons in a row. And you don’t finish where you start. Like any stage race, you move to new locations each day and camp there each night.
The incredible team at Cape Cross organise the transportation of bags, bikes and belongings. All you have to do is enjoy the route, suffer a little on the climbs and take in the views along the way. For the ultimate challenge, .
Warm Water Weekend
When? 21-22 September 2019
Where? West Coast National Park, Langebaan
What? While we’re talking triathlons, here’s another goodie for your calendar: the . A mix of on-road and off-road with the cycle taking the tar and the run taking the trails, but all set in the stunning West Coast National Park.
Again, there are events options: choose between the standard triathlon distances (1.5km swim, 40km cycle, 10km trail run) or sprint triathlon distance (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km trail run). This all takes place on Saturday, but the weekend doesn’t end there. Stick around for an open water swim on Sunday, plus volleyball and SUPing. I mean, who doesn’t love a beachy weekend? to get in on the action.
The Secret Ladies Adventure Retreat
When? 25 October 2019
Where? It’s a secret (shhh)
What? Intriguing, isn’t it? Hosted by the and , this is one of those events that promises to be packed with great outdoor activities, camping, good food and like-minded women. There will be braaiing, a secret wine-tasting tour and hiking to waterfalls. Enjoy a weekend of learning new skills in the great outdoors – we’re talking fire workshops, survival tips and more.
The Secret Adventurer will organise everything. All you need to do is show up and be ready to connect to your roots. Ready to enter a world of adventure? for a weekend of fun.
