Residents on the KZN South Coast enjoy an incredible subtropical climate and natural assets that encourage outdoor lifestyles. And this doesn’t stop with age! Far from slowing down, senior citizens are discovering that mountain biking – or trail biking – is not only fun and communal, it also supports healthy ageing.
“Cycling is one of the most rewarding forms of exercise for older adults, and it’s incredibly accessible on the KZN South Coast,” says Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, a subsidiary of the JSE-listed Crookes Brothers Limited.
“We’re seeing more seniors embrace trail biking not only for the physical benefits, but for the camaraderie and connection to nature it offers. The Renishaw Hills trail network, set within coastal forest and natural bush, has become one of the region’s most popular riding destinations precisely because it caters to different skill levels in a safe and scenic environment.”
Research continues to show that, for senior citizens, regular cycling has significant long-term benefits. These include:
· Improved heart health
· Strengthening muscles and joints without high impact
· Enhancing balance and coordination
· Supporting weight management
· Boosting mental wellbeing
· Social integration and connection
A Growing Cycling Community at Renishaw Hills
Among the passionate riders leading this movement is Richard Alkins, a resident at Scottburgh-based mature lifestyle estate, Renishaw Hills, for more than seven years – and an avid cyclist who has become one of the estate’s biggest trail ambassadors. Although he began cycling about eight years ago, Richard says he truly found his stride after Covid when he joined other experienced riders within the estate.
“There are about 40 to 45 kilometres of trails around Renishaw Hills,” he explains. “Much of it is single track through natural bush, which gives welcome shade on hot days. The sections vary in length and skill level, but they’re doable for all regular cyclists, just at your own pace.”
Popular routes include Mamba Alley, Renishaw First Climb, Escape Route, Simo’s Switchbacks and Canopies, Moonshine, Dog’s Leg, Sandwining, Compound Loop, Rollercoaster, and the newly developing Supertubes trail. The variety allows riders to choose different routes daily, keeping the experience original and exciting.
Richard says that an informal cycling group of around 16 members, many of whom are also from Scottburgh Cycling Club. The group is known for its supportive, community-driven spirit, with many members also involved in estate management, maintenance and security initiatives.
The cyclists meet regularly at Renishaw Hills main gate between 5.30am and 7am, depending on the season. Morning rides typically cover 30 to 40km, heading north or south of the estate, while beginners can opt to remain within the Renishaw trail network and select shorter distances.
“The rule is simple,” says Richard. “If you have a bike and you’re there on time, you’re welcome to join! We encourage new riders to cycle alongside experienced cyclists before tackling trails alone, and to get some local advice before purchasing bikes and equipment!”
Plans for Future Growth of the Sport
The sport is further supported by the impending launch of an on-site bicycle shop at the entrance to Crocworld Conservation Centre, which falls within the 1,300-hectare mixed-use development Renishaw Coastal Precinct – of which Renishaw Hills forms the first of many upcoming phases. Alongside the bike shop, plans are in place to extend the local biking trails, offering senior citizens and other cycling enthusiasts more options.
The growing popularity of trail biking among senior citizens and local residents will be evident at the upcoming Renishaw Solstice Race, taking place on Saturday, 20 June, from Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh, part of the Renishaw Coastal Precinct.
Hosted by the Scottburgh Cycling Club, the event forms part of the KZN Super Classic Series and includes a trail run and mountain biking races of various lengths. Participants can follow @scottburgh_cycling on Instagram for updates and enter at the Racepass website – https://racepass.com/za/races/renishaw-solstice-race
“The rising popularity of trail biking among Renishaw Hills residents and others in the area is very much part of the Renishaw Hills’ ethos, where active living forms an important part of community, connection, and long-term health,” continues Van der Merwe. “Healthy ageing is about staying engaged physically, socially and mentally. At Renishaw Hills, we’ve created an environment where that happens naturally.”
Beyond its extensive trail network, the mature lifestyle estate offers social clubs and a wide variety of sports and fitness options – with its first bowling green set to open soon!
Get in touch!
Far from being just an active retirement community, Renishaw Hills in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast is a premier mature lifestyle estate for individuals over 50, offering a vibrant, active lifestyle. For more details about Renishaw Hills or to arrange a tour, contact Kelly at 064 198 2693, email sales@renishawhills.co.za, or visit www.renishawhills.co.za.
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