Media Release

From May 2027, The Hills Challenge and Gravel & Grit Festival will officially unite under a new banner: Hills, Gravel & Grit Adventure Festival.

The new festival brings together the rich heritage of The Hills Challenge with the innovation and rapid growth of Gravel & Grit to create a world-class celebration of mountain biking, gravel cycling, trail running and the spectacular landscapes that have made Montagu one of South Africa's leading adventure destinations.

Set against the dramatic Langeberg Mountain range and the rugged beauty of the Klein Karoo, participants will enjoy an unrivaled combination of mountain bike trails, gravel roads, mountain passes and exclusive farm routes, many of which are only accessible during the festival. Whether riders are elite competitors, weekend adventurers or families seeking an unforgettable outdoor escape, Hills, Gravel & Grit will offer an experience for every level of participant.

a Weekend filled to the brim with activities for the whole family.  Book early to avoid disappointment.

One Festival. Endless Adventure.

The inaugural Hills, Gravel & Grit Adventure Festival will feature an expanded program, including:

• Signature mountain bike races across Montagu's renowned trail network.
• Gravel races through the spectacular Karoo Gravel Corridor and surrounding countryside.
• Trail running events showcasing exclusive routes and breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Family rides, fun runs and youth participation events.
• Live music, local food, markets and community celebrations.
• Community fundraising initiatives, continuing the proud legacy of The Hills Challenge.

The festival also aims to strengthen Montagu's reputation as one of South Africa's premier adventure tourism destinations, encouraging visitors to experience the town's accommodation, restaurants, wine farms, local businesses and outdoor attractions while extending their stay in the region.

Hills, Gravel & Grit Adventure Festival Info

This is an exciting new season for two events and two event organizers collaborating in something bigger and better. 

The Hills Gravel & Grit Adventure Festival will contain much more than just trail running, mountain biking and gravel racing. We are bringing in more outdoor adventure activities by partnering with other disciplines.  

We plan to make this THE WEEKEND to be in Montagu.

Book your accommodation if you haven't already

Ink the date into your 2027 calendar

Invite your friends to join!

VENUE: Goedemoed

ACTIVITIES:  Night Neon Fun Run | Mountain Bike | Gravel Bike | Trail Run |

ROUTES:  will be shared as it becomes available

ENTRIES:  We plan to open Early Bird Entries by latest end of October.

Be sure not to miss out on the latest info as it becomes available, by following us on any of these platforms.

Sign up for the Newsletter

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Follow Makadas on Instagram

Follow Event page on Makadas Aventures

Follow Hills Challenge Event page

Book accommodation through MATA

Excitement is in the air and spring has sprung!

Get out there and keep fit!

Regards from a beautiful Klein Karoo