The 48th Cape Town Cycle Tour is Racing Towards Fish Hoek!

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the world’s biggest timed cycling event returns for its 48th edition. Thousands of riders will flood the streets for the famous Cape Town Cycle Tour, choosing between the iconic 109km challenge or the punchy, high-energy 42km route. You may be chasing a personal best or cruising and soaking up the scenery, but either way, this ride delivers goosebumps from start line to finish chute.

A Global Pedal Party

The Cape Town Cycle Tour has long been a magnet for cyclists from every corner of the globe, but 2026 takes things to a whole new level. For the first time in history, the event joins the prestigious UCI Gran Fondo World Series, putting Cape Town firmly on the international cycling podium. Riders now have the chance to qualify for the 2026 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, set to take place in Niseko, Japan, from 26 to 30 August.

“Becoming part of the UCI Gran Fondo circuit positions the Cape Town Cycle Tour alongside some of the most respected mass-participation cycling events worldwide. The endorsement from the Union Cycliste Internationale means the race meets strict criteria related to organisation, safety, competitive structure, and event quality. This new status is expected to attract elite and amateur cyclists from across the globe who aim to qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. For South Africa, it signals that local sports events can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international standards, further strengthening the country’s global sporting reputation.”

From Past to Present

The Cape Town Cycle Tour didn’t start as a mega-event but as a movement. Back in 1978, what was then called “The Big Ride In” rolled out as a protest for safer cycling infrastructure. Organised by Bill Mylrea and John Stegmann, the first ride attracted just over 500 cyclists. What it lacked in numbers, it made up for in passion.

Over the decades, the route evolved into the legendary coastal loop we know today. The event also made history during apartheid by being non-segregated, welcoming cyclists of all races to ride together. It was also the first race of its kind to allow amateurs and professionals to share the same course, breaking down barriers and building community on two wheels.

Today, the Cape Town Cycle Tour hosts around 30,000 riders annually and remains a powerful force for health, inclusivity, and cycling development across South Africa. One of the Tour’s greatest achievements happens behind the scenes. Proceeds from the event support the Pedal Power Association and the Rotary Club of Claremont, funding cycling development, road safety initiatives and social upliftment projects. To date, more than R130 million has been channelled into community programmes — proof that every pedal stroke helps power positive change.

So whether you’re riding for speed, scenery, fitness or fun, the Cape Town Cycle Tour offers something rare: a world-class sporting event with heart, heritage and horsepower. One ride. One city. One unforgettable experience. Stay at Seaside Cottages and become part of a festive street crowd as the riders pass through the beachfront town of Fish Hoek! 

Other March Events in Fish Hoek

• Sunday, 15 March: Ride for Tears motorcycle charity run and Dog Show fundraiser at the Fish Hoek Athletics Club. Proceeds go to Tears Animal Rescue. It’s a great mix of motorbike enthusiasts, animal lovers, and families. Dogs and humans welcome!
• Saturday, 21 March: Human Rights Day is a national public holiday in South Africa, to commemorate March 21, 1960, when police killed 69 people during a peaceful protest against apartheid pass laws in Sharpeville. Today, community centres, markets, and local hangouts may host reflective or celebratory activities. Fish Hoek cafes, beach spots, surf clubs and restaurants often get busier as Cape Town residents take a breather by the sea.
• Rest of March: Beach life and ocean swims; Surfski, Kite Surfing, Life Saving and training sessions; Casual markets, local meetups and pop-ups.  

Base yourself at Seaside Cottages and have the time of your life!