The Management Authority for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site (COHWHS) will be extending its off-road cycle trail, with completion expected next year.

The site has created 40km of cycle lane (80km counting both road sides) and 18km of off-road trail for mountain biking enthusiasts. The off-road trail runs parallel to the cycle lane in the road reserve.

Hein Pienaar, COHWHS Deputy Director of Development Management, says the green light has been given for the extension of the off-road cycle trail by another 12km. “Our ultimate goal is to develop 100km of cycling lanes and off-road cycle trail in The Cradle, giving professional and leisure cyclists a lengthier ride.”

About 30km of the 40km cycle lanes are within the World Heritage Site, with an additional 10km forming part of the The Cradle Loop – a cycle loop that extends to the Sterkfontein Caves.

In phase three, says Pienaar, an off-road trail will link the Sterkfontein Caves to the Maropeng Official Visitor Centre.

Several venues in The Cradle offer facilities for cyclists, with easy access to the cycle lanes and trails.

Bidon Bistro in Muldersdrift has toilets, showers and bike-washing facilities for cyclists.

The new Thatch Café at the entrance to the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve has a bike and adventure park for BMX enthusiasts plus bike-washing facilities and is currently upgrading its showers for cyclists.

Velverde Eco Hotel in Lanseria offers secure parking, shower facilities and a snack shop with coffee to go.