For this tour, you'll find below a detailed day-by-day itinerary that captures the uniqueness of each day's ride and highlights the exciting sights you'll experience along the way, leading you to Franschhoek, Hermanus, and Cape Town.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Cape Town to Franschhoek (110 kilometers / 68 miles)
Start your adventure at RETZA in Cape Town, where you'll receive your Royal Enfield motorcycle and all the necessary gear. Arrive at 08:30 at RETZA, where you will meet your RETZA tour guide, who will ensure that you will have a memorable journey ahead. After a brief orientation, set off for an unforgettable ride along the beautiful West Coast.
You'll cruise through Blouberg and Melkbosstrand, offering fantastic ocean views and a taste of the coastal breeze. Don’t forget to snap an iconic picture of the Table Mountain! The journey will continue as you head inland towards the Durbanville Hills Wine Route, where you can savor some of South Africa's finest wines.
This stop will provide the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the breathtaking vineyard landscapes. The next leg of your ride will take you through the charming town of Stellenbosch and over the Helshoogte Pass, a picturesque mountain road.
You'll finally arrive in Franschhoek in the afternoon, a place known for its incredible wineries, remarkable cuisine, and artistic flair. You will have plenty of time to take a leisurely walk to explore the historic city's charm and prepare for a wine-tasting experience in one of Franschhoek's renowned wine estates. Afterward, enjoy a delectable dinner in the town center.
Day 2: Franschhoek to Hermanus (170 kilometers / 106 miles)
This day, your ride will begin with the thrill of conquering Franschhoek Pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The road to Hermanus is a scenic delight, so be sure to have your cameras ready.
Stop at the Elgin Railway Market for a light snack and coffee. This artisanal market is nestled in the apple orchards of Elgin and is a great place to sample local flavors.
Continue your journey through the Highlands Pass, taking in the lush scenery. As you reach Hermanus, you'll be captivated by the stunning oceanfront and the opportunity to spot some majestic marine life.
Dine in style at one of Hermanus' oceanfront restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and watching the waves roll in. The sounds of the ocean will provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Day 3: Hermanus to Cape Town (220 kilometers / 137 miles)
This will be the final day of your West Coast Explorer tour, but it'll be packed with memorable sights. You'll depart from Hermanus and make your way towards Cape Town via the famous Clarence Drive and the Cape Peninsula.
The ride along Clarence Drive will leave you breathless as you pass through Rooi Els and experience some of the most magnificent coastal scenery in the region. There, you will get the opportunity to visit the famous South African penguin colony.
The twisting coastal roads will make for an unforgettable journey. Make a pit stop in Simon's Town to explore the historical charm of this naval town. Don't miss the chance to visit Boulders Beach, home to a colony of adorable African penguins.
Continue your ride towards Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The views there are absolutely mesmerizing. Your route will take you past Misty Cliffs and along the iconic Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads.
From there, head back via Hout Bay and Camps Bay, with magnificent views of the Twelve Apostles, Table Mountain, and Lions Head, before you arrive back in Cape Town, where your epic journey began. Return your Royal Enfield motorcycle at RETZA, concluding your three-day adventure.
The RETZA team hopes you've created unforgettable memories and can't wait to welcome you back for your next motorcycling adventure!
Skill levels required for this tour: Beginner, intermediate, and advanced
Beginner:
- Can ride for two to three hours
- Minimal riding experience
- Assistance required
- Comfortable with curves and leans
- Basic experience with unsurfaced roads
- Short distance ascents and descents
Intermediate:
- Can ride for three to four hours
- Average riding experience
- Little assistance required
- Comfortable with extreme curves and leans
- Average experience with unsurfaced roads
- Steep ascents and descents
Advanced:
- Can ride for five to six hours
- Extensive riding experience
- Assistance on demand (if required)
- Experienced with riding a variety of motorcycles
- Comfortable with any terrain and weather conditions
Riding a motorcycle in South Africa
To ride any of the 500cc Royal Enfield motorcycles, a valid motorcycle license is required. A learner's license and full licenses are allowed.