Welcome to the Around The Rock Trail Run Series

Experience the beauty, challenge, and adventure of trail running around the iconic Paarl Rock in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The Around The Rock Trail Run Series takes you through four of Paarl’s most celebrated wine farms — Rhebokskloof, Laborie, Spice Route, and Fairview — each offering a unique blend of rugged trails, breathtaking scenery, and true Winelands hospitality.

Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a nature-loving newcomer, this series is designed to inspire, energize, and reward. Lace up and join us for a trail journey like no other — where granite giants meet vineyards, and every step tells a story.

 Why Run Around The Rock?

Paarl Trails Network
Boasting over 200 km of meticulously maintained singletrack and multi-use trails, Paarl Trails winds its way through vineyards, fynbos, granite outcrops, and valley vistas that offer a thrilling running experience. With routes spanning Rhebokskloof, Laborie, Spice Route, Fairview, Ridgeback and beyond, there’s a trail to suit every fitness level.

Cape Epic’s Paarl Spotlight

In March 2025, the legendary ABSA Cape Epic featured two full-stage circuits on the Paarl Trails around Paarl Rock, showcasing its stunning granite terrain and technical singletrack to the global mountain biking world. These stages, including one start-and-finishing at Fairview, highlighted the adventurous spirit and rugged beauty that our trail run series now brings to runners.

🏃 What to Expect in the Series

• Varied Terrain: Navigate granite-slab ascents, twisty singletrack, flowy vineyard stretches, and short, sharp climbs around Paarl Rock.

• Stunning Views: Every farm offers unique scenery—from the majestic rock faces to sweeping valley views and vineyard-laced hills.

• Feel the Epic Energy: Run along sections once conquered by elite cyclists in the Cape Epic, adding an electrifying edge to your experience.

• Winelands Hospitality: Each winery provides runner-focused amenities—refreshment stations, scenic cut-offs, and a warm finish-line reception.

Join the Journey

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking in the beauty of the Winelands, this series offers an unforgettable canvas: 200 km of official Paarl Trails, four iconic wine farms, and a connection to the legendary Cape Epic route. Lace up, join us, and traverse Paarl’s trails where nature, history, and athleticism converge.

Dates:

• 23 August - Fairview
• 14 September - Rhebokskloof
• 18 October - Spice Route
• 9 November - Laborie 

Series Entry Fees (All 4 Events): Your entry includes the permit and trail fee for all 4 events.

Only 50 spots available for the full series. Participants will be able to enter each event individually with the gift benefits.

5km - R1 300

10km - R1 600

21km - R1 900

Gift:

If you enter the whole series, you will receive the following gift pack. You have to pre-enter the series and run all 4 events to collect the wine bottle at the last event. More items might be added at no charge depending on the sponsors. I will keep you informed.

More Info:

Starting Times: Please note that this is only for the August and September Events. We will start 30min earlier for the last two events.

5km - Start @ 8:45

10km Start @ 8:30

21km Start @ 8am

• Medals for all finishers.
• Please do not leave any valuables in the car. You can leave it at registration.
• Registration will take place on the morning of the event and will be open one hour before the start.
• No refunds if you cancel your entry.
• Your entry will be removed if not paid after 3 days.
• Water stations will be available however it is always good to run with your own hydration pack.