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OTTERS' HAUNT

Your getaway at the Vaal River and Vredefort Dome

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082 475 8767

084 245 2490

info@otters.co.za


 


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MOUNTAIN BIKING

Dome Bergland & Vaal Valley - a paradise for trail riders!

Biking tips              How to find us

Guided & self-paced trails                  Fees

Welcome to the pages that outline a great variety of mountain biking trails in the Dome Bergland and Vaal River Valley. The list of trails is not exhaustive. Certain routes are closed to the public but we can get access, in some cases only for guided trails.

We also pioneer new trails regularly. Check our Ottspot blog for exciting events and news of explorations.

Please call ahead to gain entry. We do admit day visitors but it is really is best to stay over because there are so many trails and once you are here you'll want to explore several. Check the biking tips for the right equipment and clothing.

The area is a paradise for mountain bikers. The annual Crater Cruise (October) around the Vredefort Dome was voted the best mountain biking race in the country in 2005. There is something to suit every level of fitness and interest, including:

  • Gung-ho competitive mountain bikers and those in training for the Cape Epic and other events

  • Families, couples, and those who want to see the scenery rather than exhaust themselves

  • Recreational trail riders looking for new routes with varied challenges

  • Adventure racing teams can follow the self-paced routes set up for this purpose.

ACCESS AND RULES OF THE TRAIL

The Vredefort Dome is both a National and a World Heritage Site, so strict environmental rules apply. We also emphasise care and courtesy - such as closing all farm gates, being polite at all times, and leaving absolutely no trace of your presence. Please do not try to avoid payment or take in more cyclists than permitted: this only has the effect of closing down the trails for others.

Most of the trails are unmarked! Either you need a good map, with or without GPS co-ordinates (which we supply) or you need a guide. We are happy to introduce you to the area with its many options, and will either point you in the right direction or lead you. Without trail knowledge you are likely to lose your way and certainly will miss out on some of the top viewsites, challenges, and points of interest.

COME HERE FIRST                                                To top

Otters' Haunt is your point of entry to the trails. Come here to stay over or park as a day visitor. We have detailed trade leaflets. We will show you the maps, answer your questions, and advise you on suitable routes to suit your time and fitness. We have the GPS co-ordinates for several routes and are busy with more. You undertake all trips entirely at own risk. See the fees structure.

To make your visit enjoyable, please observe these basics:

1. CALL AHEAD: we must know you are coming. It is best to call a day or two beforehand although you can call on the day. We limit trail numbers, make special arrangements for access to certain routes, and offer guided trails should you want to be shown around or where access is only allowed under our guide.

2. DAY VISITORS: Office hours are 6.30am to 6pm. Come to Otters' Haunt reception. There is secure parking at our place or you can drive and park at trails further afield. We have a hot shower and toilet but not for groups over 6. When available and not in use, the Bush Camp can be hired for large groups. There are picnic and braai facilities for small groups of day visitors. Overnight accommodation at Otters’ Haunt is self-catering, with discounts for groups and free general info.

3. BIKING TIPS: Supply and maintain your own off-road bike. Many of the routes are corrugated, stony and thorny, so bring a full puncture outfit and tools for tightening up. It is advisable to insert tyre liner (rubberised anti-puncture strip) and to use double-strength inner tubes. It is essential to carry plenty of water and energy snacks. You must ride with a helmet. Night lights may be necessary. Carry a windcheater and do leave a change of clothes and towel at the car. Cash will be needed for access on certain routes. A lock and chain, though seldom used, may be a good idea.

4. ACCESS                                                            To top

  • GUIDED TRAILS: Organised guided trails are arranged and quoted on request. We do not have a schedule of such trails because much depends on the level of the group. Very popular in our line-up are the Tweezer Rocks breakfast route; the Hakuna Matata circuit and the Matopos Ascent. See trail descriptions.

  • SELF-PACED TRAILS: Most cyclists are happy to go off on their own. For open public trails this is no problem: we indicate the routes (eg Big Circle, Airport Ride). For certain trails you need our Access Coupon which must be presented if you are stopped and asked (eg Lion's Head Quarry). Other trails are closed except where led by our guide (eg Wild Olive Outlook).

  • See trails list for details.

FEES STRUCTURE                                                 

Email us or call us to inquire or book. Then come here.

DAY PARKING R50 per vehicle Limit: four vehicles. Arrange parking for large groups in advance.
TRAIL BRIEFING R35 per group of 4 Call ahead. 15 minute detailed map presentation and worthwhile routes to try. Unless doing guided trail - no charge.
SPECIFIC ROUTE MAP if available R35 Road and track directions, with GPS where available. Area ecology, history and info on sites of interest.
ENTRY FEES TO SPECIFIC ROUTES Depends on landowner. We will let you know when arranging access. Generally around R20-R30 per head, sometimes up to R65. Our coupon system admits you on payment at our end.
DAY VISITORS AND PICNICS FOR CYCLISTS AT OTTERS R35 per head max 6. Kids 3-13, R25. Otters' Haunt is NOT a resort but we do have exclusive small picnic sites for visitors. No braai fires except at Bush Camp.
TOILET & SHOWER AT OTTERS Included in parking/visitors Only for paying day visitors.
GUIDING FEE

R 200 per group of 4

R100 per hour extra

Min fee covers group of 4 or less. Thereafter, add R35 per head to max 12.

WE DO NOT HAVE A SHOP

BLOGSITE  "OTTSPOT"

See www.ottspot.iblog.co.za for exciting explorations (biking, hiking,  whitewater, adventure) and other news.

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Photo Gallery

General shots of cycling the Dome Bergland

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At Otters' Haunt we have mapped the trails and are the centre for biking know-how in this area. Call ahead and come here for briefings - we do not provide info on the phone.

Trails List, Descriptions and Map

ACCESS AND RULES OF THE TRAIL:

Read this first!

 

Copyright 2003-6

Website by Editorial Assignments, Vaal Cybercentre.  info@otters.co.za