Your Midlands Trail Running & MTB Accommodation Base: Where to Stay Near Karkloof Events
- The Old Mushroom Farm
- Jun 12
- 4 min read
Stay at The Old Mushroom Farm to Race and Recover
You don’t get to the Midlands on the morning of the race! Athletes know the best races begin long before the start gun. By the time you arrive at your accommodation at The Old Mushroom Farm, the hard part (all the prep and training) is mostly done.
It’s best to get here a day early, sometimes two. Athletes travel from across the country to take part in Midlands trail running and mountain bike events, and make the most out of a race with a long weekend. Going into an event rested, and planning in adequate recovery time afterwards makes for better results. Give yourself time to settle into your race accommodation, to enjoy a relaxed braai, or dinner shared around the table at Bite Society, and you’re set up for success.
At The Old Mushroom Farm, your ‘base camp’ is ready, a space where you can enjoy the in-between moments spent in the countryside with the friends and family who’ve come to compete and cheer. Choose from a variety of self catering and b&b options from budget-friendly to plush apartments at The Old Mushroom Farm.
From world-class cycling routes to some of the country’s most loved trail runs, the Midlands, and Karkloof in particular, hosts a calendar of events that draws runners and riders back year after year. Below, we’ve rounded up a few of the bucket-list races on our doorstep, and why accommodation close by at The Old Mushroom Farm, makes all the difference.
On our doorstep: Key Midlands Events
Be sure to check the official event websites for updates
Thank you, 2broke2fixarover and activ8_endurance for the pics
Karkloof Youth Festival (SA Youth MTB Champs)
Dates: 8 – 10 August 2026
Start: Karkloof Country Club
A first for Karkloof and South Africa, this festival brings young riders together across multiple MTB disciplines. Expect skills sessions, talks, and a weekend built around growth and riding.
The Old Mushroom Farm is one of the closest accommodation options to Karkloof Country Club, only a 7 minute drive away.
uMngeni River Run
Date: 16 August 2026
Venue: WESSA uMgeni Valley Nature Reserve, Howick
Distances: 6km, 12km, 23km, 5km, 75km
A scenic and varied trail run through one of the region’s most beautiful reserves.
The Old Mushroom Farm is a short, 7 minute drive from WESSA, making us a great accommodation option near the race.
Karkloof 100 Miler
Dates: 24 – 27 September 2026
Start: Karkloof Country Club
Distances: 10, 20, 30, 50 and 100 miler runs Entry: R849 – R6,449
Africa’s fastest, friendliest, and most loved 100 Miler celebrates 10 years in 2026. From first-timers to seasoned endurance runners, every distance carries its own kind of reward.
The Old Mushroom Farm offers some of the best accommodation near Karkloof Country Club.
Howick Trail Run
Date: Sunday, 4 October 2026
Venue: La Petite France Café, Howick
Distances: 5km, 10km, 20km
Shorter distances, strong community energy, and a good day out on the trails.
Right next door to The Old Mushroom Farm!
GoGoGravel
Date: October 2026 (TBC)
Start: Karkloof Country Club
Distances: 60km / 100km
Known for its smooth gravel roads and sweeping Midlands scenery, this ride showcases a different side of Karkloof—less technical, just as rewarding.
*Please check all official race websites for event confirmation.
Thank you, Jo Kepler, Roshall Nemchund and Sandy Chowles for the pics.
Not racing? You’re still in the right place.
Karkloof trails aren’t only for event days. They are among South Africa’s top riding and running destinations year-round.
With an extensive network of trails built through Sappi plantations, shaped by a passionate local riding community, the area offers something for every level.
MTB loops: 10km, 20km, 30km
Trails graded according to IMBA guidelines
Start and finish at Karkloof Country Club
Day access available via the Club
Not everyone is chasing a finish line and The Old Mushroom Farm works just as well:
Whether you’re running, riding, or supporting from the sidelines, this is a base that works for the whole weekend.
Your Basecamp, Sorted.
Choosing the right accommodation near Karkloof trail events matters.
After a day on the trails, come back to:
Comfortable accommodation for deep rest
Space for bikes, gear, muddy shoes and tired legs
Fireplaces for cold Midlands evenings
Good coffee when you wake up, nourishing food, and well-equipped kitchens
Races and long rides take it out of you in the best way. Staying at The Old Mushroom Farm is a way to refuel.
These dates don’t stay open for long!
The Midlands’ biggest trail runs and cycling events draw visitors from across the country, and accommodation nearest the Karkloof trail event venue is always the first to fill. The earlier you book, the better your options, and the easier your weekend becomes.
Staying at The Old Mushroom Farm, you’re right where you need to be. Close to the routes, close to the energy, and set up with an accommodation base that makes the entire experience smoother from start to finish.
If these events are on your wishlist, now is the time to lock it in.
Book your race accommodation at The Old Mushroom Farm directly (for the best rates).
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