Coming to Paarl on 24 - 27 September 2026
Festival Program
Thursday 24th September
Event Schedule :
06:30 : Registration & Number Collection ( SpiceRoute )
07:30 : PaarlBerg Trail Runs Start ( SpiceRoute )
Activity Schedule :
07:30 : Paarl Gravel Outride 30km & 60km (Spice Route)
09:00 : W&M E-MTB Outride 30km (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Paarl Adventure Festival EXPO (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Downhill Shuttles (Spice Route)
09:00 : Horseback Outride (Spice Route)
09:00 – 16:00 : Ford Main Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
09:00 – 16:00 : Ford Kiddies Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
11:30 – 17:00 : Wilderer Braai Day (Spice Route)
Friday 25th September
Event Schedule :
12:00 – 20:00 : Registration and Number Collection(Spice Route)
17:30 : PaarlBerg Sunset Hike and Trail Run 5km,10km(Spice Route)
Activity Schedule :
09:00 – 20:00 : Paarl Adventure Festival EXPO (Spice Route)
12:00 – 17:00 : Downhill Shuttles (Spice Route)
14:00 – 18:00 : Ford Main Pump track Open (Spice Route)
14:00 – 18:00 : Ford Kiddies Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
16:00 – 17:00 : Hero Legacy Kids Foundation Class (Spice Route)
18:00 : Paarl MTB Night Ride 10km, 20km (Spice Route)
17:00 – 21:00 : Spice Route Pasta Party
Saturday 26th September
Event Schedule :
06:00 : PaarlBerg Half Marathon (De Poort, Paarl CBD)
12:00 – 17:00 : Registration and Number Collection (Spice Route)
Activity Schedule :
07:30 : Cabal Social Road Ride (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Paarl Adventure Festival EXPO (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Downhill Shuttles (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Ford Main Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
09:00 – 17:00 : Ford Kiddies Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
09:00 : Horseback Outride (Spice Route)
10:00 – 17:00 : CBC Unplugged Beer Festival (Spice Route)
11:00 : Kiddies MTB Outride (Spice Route)
Sunday 27th September
Event Schedule :
06:30 : Registration and Number Collection (Spice Route)
08:00 – 17:00 : Western Cape Downhill (Spice Route)
08:00 – 15:00 : Paarl MTB Challenge (Spice Route)
08:00 – 15:00 : Paarl E-MTB Challenge (Spice Route)
Activitiy Schedule :
09:00 – 17:00 : Paarl Adventure Festival EXPO (Spice Route)
09:00 – 16:00 : Ford Main Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
09:00 – 16:00 : Ford Kiddies Pump Track Open (Spice Route)
A look back , with a glimpse of what’s to come.
Feedback from Visitors & Vendors
Race Village and Adventure Expo
24 - 27 September 2024
A Destination of Dreams
Spice Route, Paarl
A world-class destination with an amazing collection of artisans offering foods, gifts, beers and so much more.
- Expo Stands – explore the latest products from amazing brands.
- Pump Tracks – 2 Pump Tracks for Adults and kiddies
- Play Areas – 4 Plays Areas for kiddies
- Restaurants – 3 Restaurants and loads to eat
- Beverages – Craft Beer & Gin, Wine, Tea
- Artisans – Loads of great artisans to explore on the farm
Loads to do for the entire family
Events & Activities
- Gravel – For the dirt road enthusiasts
- Road – For the roadies
- XCM – Calling all Mountain Bikers
- Downhill – Adrenaline junkies dream route
- Trail Runs – Stunning Views for days
- Horseback Rides – Become a true Cowboy/Cowgirl
- Marathon – Endurance Athletes
- Kids Rides – Keep them entertained
- Scroll down to see more!
An Adventure Expo With A Difference!!!
At the heart of the Paarl Trails is the Hero Legacy Project, a non-profit dedicated to uplifting communities in and around Paarl. Through initiatives like the Trail Warrior Program, they create opportunities, build skills, and help care for the beautiful trails we all get to enjoy.
The Paarl Trails Network exists because of the hard work and pride of the Trail Warrior teams, who build and maintain these incredible routes. All proceeds from the expo stand sales will be donated to the Hero Legacy Project, helping them continue their meaningful work and grow a stronger, more connected adventure community in the region.
Spice Route Destination is a vibrant farm experience filled with exceptional restaurants, artisan producers, and activities to explore. With lush lawns beneath oak trees and beautiful valley views, it offers the perfect setting for both spectators and competitors to relax, connect, and discover a wide range of brands showcasing their products and services.
Exhibitors are invited to be part of this vibrant festival experience and connect directly with an active, outdoor-loving audience. Whether you offer adventure gear, lifestyle products, food, wellness services, or family-friendly experiences, this is a great opportunity to showcase your brand in a relaxed and energetic setting. Follow the link below to book your space.
Or email [email protected]
Events
Paarl Mountain bike Challenge
Mountain bikers, get ready for a true adventure at Paarl Adventure Festival. Take on exciting, scenic cross-country marathon routes designed for everyone, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic amateurs.
The XCM mountain bike events showcase the best of Paarl’s trail network, with purpose-built single track winding through diverse farms and attractions. Ride renowned trails such as Pinecone, Superbowl, Diamant, and loads more. Choose from 20 km, 40 km, or 65 km routes and enjoy a memorable day on the trails. The 20 km and 40 km routes feature low elevation and few, if any, technical sections, making them ideal for all skill levels. The emphasis is on fun and enjoyment. Please
note: these routes remain on the lower trails and do not climb Paarl Mountain.
The 65 km route offers an exceptional showcase of the Paarl Trail Network, packed with flowing single track, spectacular views, and exciting features.
Secure your place now and experience an unforgettable cross-country marathon at Paarl Adventure Festival.
Event Date : 27 September , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Hosted in Association with Paarl Trails
Expect only the best. From the best in the business.
Paarl E-MTB Challenge
E-bike riders, this one’s for you! Charge into Paarl Adventure Fest and get ready for a high-energy ride packed with big views, flowing trails, sneaky climbs, and plenty of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic weekend rider, the scenic cross-country marathon routes are built to deliver fun from start to finish.
Paarl Mountain is famous for testing mountain bikers with its climbs and elevation, but with an e-bike, every challenge becomes part of the thrill.
The E-Mountain Bike events will bring the best of the Paarl trails network to life, with custom-built single track winding through farms, attractions, and some seriously scenic terrain. Take on local favourites like Pinecone, Advocate, Superbowl, Diamant, and more, and experience these legendary routes with extra power, extra
confidence, and extra smiles. It’s fast, fun, accessible, and loaded with adventure.
The 20 km and 40 km routes feature low elevation and few, if any, technical sections, making them ideal for all skill levels. The emphasis is on fun and enjoyment. Please note: these routes remain on the lower trails and do not climb Paarl Mountain. The 65 km route offers an exceptional showcase of the Paarl Trail Network, packed
with flowing single track, spectacular views, and exciting features.
Event Date : 27 September , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Western Cape Downhill
Downhill riders, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience at Paarl Adventure Festival! Industry insiders call it one of the best downhill tracks in Africa, and now you can ride it.
Feel the rush as you navigate thrilling descents and challenging terrain designed to test your skills and push your limits.
Join us for this unparalleled adventure and see why this track is a must-ride for downhill enthusiasts. Secure your spot now and be part of an unforgettable downhill experience at Paarl Adventure Fest!
Event Date : 27 September , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Hosted in Association with Western Cape Downhill
Expect only the best. From the best in the business.
PaarlBerg Trail Run
Join us for an exciting trail run hosted in partnership with Run the Vines, featuring
the scenic lower parts of Spice Route, Fijnland, Vrymansfontein and Landskroon
farms. Choose between a 5km, 10km, or 20km route that takes you through beautiful vineyards and olive orchards. This course promises to be loads of fun for all participants.
Event Date : 24 September , Spice Route Destination, Paarl.
Hosted in Association with Run the Vines
Expect only the best. From the best in the business.
PaarlBerg Half Marathon
Steeped in tradition and endurance, the Paarlberg Half Marathon is more than just a race – it’s a legacy. Established in 1935 and presented by the historic Paarl Athletic Club, this race is proudly one of the oldest road running events in the country, second only to the Comrades Marathon. Today it is hosted and presented by Onsite Events in association with the Paarl Athletics Club.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, your first half marathon medal, or simply want to experience the magic of running through one of South Africa’s most scenic and historic towns, the Paarlberg Half Marathon welcomes you.
Lace up and be part of history.
Event Date : 26 September , Paarl
Hosted in Association with Paarl Athletic Club by Onsite Events
Expect only the best. From the best in the business.
PaarlBerg Sunset Hike/Run
What better way to welcome spring than to enjoy a spectacular Sunset Hike or Run. Join the team from Onsite Events on the Friday evening for a 5km or 10km Hike or Run.
Step into the wild beauty of Paarl Mountain Reserve on guided hikes through colourful fynbos and renosterveld, winding past ancient 500-million-year-old granite boulders and some of the most scenic viewpoints in the Winelands. Along the way, soak up sweeping views over the valley, dams, vineyards, and mountains while enjoying a relaxed outdoor adventure suitable for the whole family. Led by On Site
Events, the festival will feature two unique hikes, each offering a memorable way to connect with nature, explore Paarl’s iconic landscapes, and be part of the adventure-filled weekend.
Top off the evening by joining the Spice Route Pasta Party with some great food and drinks
Event Date : 25 September , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Hosted in Association with Onsite Events
Expect only the best. From the best in the business.
Event Registrations & Number Collections
To Make things easier for you and add some fun to Event Registration and Number collection we have placed all Event and Activity Registration and number collection in the Heart of the EXPO at Paarl Adventure Festival from 24-27 September at Spice
Route Destination . Now you can experience all the action in 1 place.
To Enter one of the OFFICAL events , click on the “Click Here to Enter “ block on of the above events.
To take part in one of the Activities or Social outrides , see information below on the activity OFFICAL EVENT number collection times:
#Paarl MTB & E-MTB Challenge
24 Sep : 06:30 – 08:00
24 Sep : 13:00 – 17:00
25 Sep : 12:00 – 20:00
26 Sep : 12:00 – 17:00
27 Sep : 06:30 – 10:00
#PaarlBerg Trail Run
24 Sep : 06:30 – 08:00
#PaarlBerg Sunset Hike/Run
24 Sep : 06:30 – 08:00
24 Sep : 13:00 – 17:00
25 Sep : 12:00 – 20:00
#PaarlBerg Half Marathon
24 Sep : 06:30 – 08:00
24 Sep : 13:00 – 17:00
25 Sep : 12:00 – 20:00
26 Sep : 05:00 ( at the Start)
#Western Cape Downhill
27 Sep : 07:30 – 10:00
Activities & Outrides
Paarl Gravel Outride
On Thursday 24 September we will be hosting a social Gravel Ride from Spice Route . There are 2 Distances on offer, a 30km and 60km . Routes will showcase some of the amazing gravel riding in and around Paarl.
Note that this is not a Event but a Social Ride . Lead and Sweep Marshals will be assisting
Date : Thursday 24 September
Meet up : Main event area , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Start time : 07:30am
Register :
30km Gravel Ride :
Click here to Enter
60km Gravel Ride :
Click here to Enter
Downhill Shuttles
Downhill Shuttles Are Go!
Get ready to rack up the vertical! We’re running downhill shuttle sessions all festival weekend. Whether you’re dialing in your lines for Sunday’s official Western Cape Downhill event or just looking to smash out as many laps as possible, everyone is welcome.
Heavy Warning: Needles Downhill Trail Needles is a strictly Black-rated trail. You must be an experienced downhill rider to tackle this terrain.
- Ride at Your Own Risk: There will be no medical services on-site during practice/lead-up days.
- Strict Route Policy: You must stick to the designated Jeep Track shuttle route for up-and-down access. The official Circular Shuttle Loop is strictly reserved for event day only.
Downhill Shuttle Days and Times :
Thursday 24 Sep : 09:00 – 17:00
Friday 25 Sep : 12:00 – 17:00
Saturday 26 Sep : 09:00 – 17:00
Shuttle Options
- Join an Organized ShuttleDon’t have a shuttle rig? No worries! We’ve got organized shuttles running throughout the weekend. Book your spot directly with the crew:
- Willem: 072 212 5346 | [email protected]
- Pieter: 082 781 2191 | [email protected]
- Ensure you buy both your Day Pass before hitting the track.
- Self-ShuttleRolling in your own setup?
- Stick strictly to the specified shuttle times in the event schedule.
- Ensure you buy both your Vehicle Shuttle Pass and Day Pass before hitting the track.
- Use the standard up-and-down shuttle route only (no circular loop access until race day).
Rudy Project Night MTB Ride
Experience the magic of cycling under the stars at Paarl Adventure Fest! We invite you to join us for an unforgettable guided night ride, where the trails come alive with the glow of bike lights and the excitement of nighttime adventure.
Feel the thrill of riding through Paarl’s scenic landscapes in a whole new light. This guided night ride offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Its not a event , its Chilled and just a great ride with a difference.
Don’t miss this special experience that combines the beauty of nighttime scenery with the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Join the Spice Route Pasta Party after for some amazing food and drinks after . Don’t Forget your Bike Light
Date : Friday 25 September
Meet up : Main event area , Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Start time : 18:00pm
Register :
Register for 10km :
Register for 20km :
Cabal Social Road Ride
Join the Cabal Bikes crew for an epic morning in the saddle! We’re taking on some of the absolute best roads in and around Paarl—think smooth, fast tar, crushing views, and zero race pressure. This isn’t a competitive event, just a pure social group ride built around good vibes and great riding.
Pick your distance, roll with the pack, and then stick around post-ride to dive into the excitement, food, and expo atmosphere at the Paarl Adventure Festival!
The Details
Date: Saturday, 26th September
Start Time: 7:30 AM
Start & Finish Venue: Spice Route Destination, Paarl
Routes: 40km (Short) | 80km (Long)
Secure Your Spot Grab the route details and RSVP on Strava by clicking the buttom below.
Hero Legacy Kid's Foundation Class
We’re bringing our hugely popular monthly Hero Legacy Foundation Class straight to the Paarl Adventure Festival!
Got a little ripper ready to roll? Kids aged 2 to 16 can take over the main pump track at Spice Route for an afternoon packed with fun, skills, and high energy. Our Trail Warriors crew will be on-site to help beginners learn the ropes, build confidence, or just cheer them on as they tear up laps. Parents are encouraged to join in the fun and soak up the atmosphere!
Don’t forget: Bring your bike and helmet!
The Details
Date: Friday, 25th September
Time: 16:00 – 17:00
Venue: Spice Route Main Pump Track
Who: Kids ages 2 – 16 (All skill levels welcome!)
Lock In Your Spot RSVP and let us know you’re coming on Strava:
W&M E-Bike Group Ride
30km. Intermediate and above. This one’s got legs.
If you’ve been wanting to link up the best trails on South side of Paarl has to offer in one ride, this is it. Bring your climbing legs, bring your nerve for the new stuff.
The Details
• Date: Thursday , 24th September
• Time: 09:00am Start
• Venue: Spice Route Main event Area
Please ensure you have a paarl trails day permit to ride : www.paarltrails.com
Horseback Outrides
Join Kirsti and the team for a spectacular horseback outride across the open plains of Fijnland Farm Estate and into Paarl Reserve. Riders will enjoy breathtaking views of the granite boulders, catchment dams, wide-open landscapes, fynbos, and renosterveld. Bring your own horse or book one of theirs for a memorable riding experience. Exploring Paarl on horseback is truly special and not to be missed.
Book your Space : [email protected]
Ford Paarl Pumptrack Adventure
Get ready to roll, pump, and play at the Paarl Adventure Festival! Spice Route Destination boasts two incredible pump tracks—including our main track packing 500 meters of pure flow, packed with rollers, table tops, and non-stop speed.
The Ford Paarl team will be right there on-site, bringing the energy and cheering you on as you rip through the laps. Open all weekend long, it’s the ultimate spot to hone your skills, throw down with friends, or squeeze in a quick session between the race action, festival expo, and Spice Route’s legendary food and drinks!
The Details
When: Open all festival weekend
Venue: Spice Route Destination (Main Pump Track)
Just bring your bike and helmet!
HeroLegacy Kiddies MTB Outride
Parents, bring your kids to Paarl Adventure Fest 2026 for exciting adventure and fun! We invite young riders to join us on our 1.5km or 3km MTB Fun OutRide, designed especially for kids. This is not an official event , but a fun social outride for the kiddies
Let your children experience the joy of mountain biking on routes, perfect for young adventurers of all skill levels. This ride is a great opportunity for kids to enjoy the outdoors, make new friends, and develop their cycling skills in a supportive environment.
Don’t miss out on this family-friendly outride that promises fun and excitement for everyone. Secure your spots now and join us for the MTB Fun Outride at Paarl Adventure Fest!
The Details
• Date: Saturday, 26th September
• Time: 11:00 AM Start
• Venue: Spice Route Main Event Area
• Distance : 1.5 & 3km
Purchase a Day Pass to enjoy the ride : www.paarltrails.com
Paarl Adventure Festival is set to deliver an unforgettable long weekend of action, energy, and outdoor fun for the whole family. From thrilling events and guided adventures to great food, festival vibes, and a exciting weekend out in Paarl, there will be plenty to see, do, and enjoy from start to finish.
Entry to the Race Village and Expo is free, making it easy for everyone to come soak up the atmosphere, support the participants, explore the exhibitors, and enjoy the festival buzz. Please note that individual events and activities may require separate bookings or entry fees. Start planning your adventure weekend now, we’ll see you in September!
For More Detailed Info Email us on : [email protected]
