The marathon starts at 06:00 on the Elim Road. (±8.5km from Bredasdorp). About 1.5km down the tar road, you turn onto a farm road. Follow this route for 12km.

You’ll pass the original start of the marathon as it was run in 1978, along this stretch. The gravel road is fairly narrow, but there’s more than enough space to pass slower runners. Despite a hill or two to contend with, the first 13kms of the route are not too difficult.

Thereafter you start climbing the mountain. And it may feel like it’s never-ending (it includes a climb of 470m over 2kms). Beware: it’ll use up lots of energy if you’re in a hurry. Rather use this time to enjoy the spectacular mountain Fynbos (keep your eye out for the striking King Protea). A cash prize is up for grabs for the King of the Mountain – the first man to reach the water station at the FM Tower on top of the mountain (who also finishes the race).

From the FM Tower, it’s a wonderful downhill cruise on a gravel road, until you reach the main road in Napier. The most difficult part of the marathon is about to start: it’s the 16km stretch between Napier and Bredasdorp. Here you run on tar roads, and need to contend with several long, taxing hills. (Take the time to enjoy the views of the grain fields around you). 

(Please note: For much of this route, you’re running on private property so please don’t drop water sachets and energy wrappers on the route – which is harmful to the environment and to livestock.)