26 September 2026 · Waterford Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Blouklip Trail Run 2026
You might have driven down the Blaauwklippen Road on your way to one of the fantastic wineries in this valley — but have you ever dreamed of running along the Blouklip River, up towards the Helderberg mountain and along Stellenbosch mountain, passing these beautiful wine farms along the way?
Every year we grow the event and improve where we can. This year’s improved routes take the Xplore & Xtreme distances to the neck at Lourensford, with spectacular views of the Helderberg Dome and Suurberg. Starting at Waterford, you’ll pass a great number of indigenous trees approved by the WWF as part of an effort to sustain the ecosystem on the farm.
The Route
Why this race?
This is trail running at its most scenic. The Blaauwklippen Valley is home to some of Stellenbosch’s most celebrated wine estates, and the Blouklip Trail Run takes you through the heart of it — not on tar, not on a road bike, but on your own two feet, deep in the vines and mountains.
The Xplore route heads up to the foot of the Dome and the Suurberg, with some stunning trails at De Trafford Wines. A unique single track — the winemaker’s own regular walking path to the mountain — will be your route to their cellar. At Keermont you will run past their vineyards and along the river under a canopy of trees. A beautiful old bridge along the route will take you back in time — and a quick dip to cool down might also be on the cards.
The Xtreme route pushes further — heading up to the neck at Lourensford for sweeping views of the Helderberg Dome and Suurberg before descending back through the valley. A serious mountain route for experienced trail runners.
The Xperience route is the perfect introduction to trail running in the Stellenbosch winelands — accessible, beautiful, and just challenging enough to earn that post-race glass of wine.
Enter NowDistances & Prices
Choose Your Distance
Up to the neck at Lourensford — sweeping views of the Helderberg Dome and Suurberg await.
The winemaker’s singletrack, a river canopy at Keermont, and a beautiful old bridge waiting to be crossed.
Your first trail run, your child’s adventure, or just a beautiful morning in the Blaauwklippen Valley.
Everything you need to know
Race Info
De Trafford Wines — the winemaker’s own singletrack to the Suurberg. Trail running access money can’t buy.
Keermont Vineyards — vineyards, river canopy, and a beautiful old bridge that will make you slow right down.
Get directions on Google Maps
Drive 500m past Waterford Estate’s gate and turn right to reach the start.
⚠️ Please share a ride — carpooling is strongly encouraged to reduce traffic.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your start to collect your race number.
Online entries only — no entries on the day.
No substitutions or cancellations less than 7 days before the event.
Charged mobile phone
Rain jacket — compulsory kit determined by the day’s weather, but this is a mountain run. Come prepared.
Aid stations on all 3 distances. No dogs allowed.
🍷 Wine stands — you’ve earned it
🍔 Food trucks
🎵 Live music
Invite your friends, bring the family, and enjoy lunch under the trees next to the vineyards at Waterford Estate. Bring a picnic blanket.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page and this page for updates.