Raw Africa Boutique Collection and its flagship five-star Sky Villa Boutique Hotel in Plettenberg Bay have launched a number of new mountain biking trails as part of their ongoing project to create a destination that merges botanical gardens with attractions for mountain bikers.

The collection worked with local mountain biking association Trail Lynx to launch the property’s first MTB trails in December 2021, under the name of Sky Trails. One year later, on December 4, additional trails were opened, along with new parking facilities and a place where riders can gather and prepare. R2m (€110 000) was also invested in fencing to ensure that the trails are safe for children.

Trail fees are R60 (€3.50) per day and R300 (€17.60) for 12 months of unlimited access.

Sky Trails will host a five-stage mountain MTB race during Sky Villa’s inaugural Plett Wine and Adventure Festival, which takes place on December 16 and 17.

The aim of the annual event will be to highlight Plettenberg Bay as a destination, showcase local heritage and promote collaboration and a sense of community. In addition to the MTB race, the event will host a Sky Fun Run, a yoga session and various wine and beer tastings and culinary offerings. 

Raw Africa Boutique Collection has a strong focus on eco-tourism principles, with part of its mandate being to protect the precious fynbos habitats found on its seven properties in the Western Cape.