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Stoney Ridge Off-Road Academy
Reviewed: DO #9, 2004
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Awards:
Top 10 winner 2004 
Contact:
Jacqui Ikin | John Rich
Cell phone:
082 338 8809; 073 697 5108
Telephone:
036 354 7012
E-mail address:
jacqui@stoneyridge.co.za
Web page:
http://www.stoneyridge.co.za
Nearest town:
Weenen (14km) |
-28.775000, 29.945860
|
Route distance:
Up to 200km | 10 - 12 hours
Surrounds:
The Stoney Ridge Off-road Academy is essentially a training venue, but the trails are of a far higher standard than one normally finds at such a facility.
The trail:
Because most of the trails are guided, they can be tailored to suit all experience levels, time constraints and all types of vehicles, while invariably placing an emphasis on relaxed family fun for outdoor enthusiasts.
There are six trails. Five are 4x4 trails, and one is for 4x2s with diff lock. The trails wind through 2 400 ha of scenic indigenous bushveld, featuring a range of natural terrain from steep slopes and rock steps to sand, mud, river crossings and dongas. There are escape routes should you run into any difficulties.
Stoney Ridge also offers the option of self-drive GPS routes or a variety of guided trails where there's much to be learned from the gentle coaxing of guide John Rich. And if you don't know how to use that GPS yet, enrol for one of the regular courses. Stoney Ridge is one of the recognised venues for Mitsubishi Xplorer and offers some of the finest 4x4 driving tuition available in South Africa.
Accommodation:
The simple, rustic bush camp offers comfortable tented accommodation on raised wooden platforms. Tasty and wholesome meals available on request.
Camping:
There's a campsite on the banks of the Bloukrans River. 
101 Trail Guide | 2010
Stoney Ridge Off-Road Academy
Within the malaria-free wilderness of the Thukela Biosphere Reserve, in the riverine forest on the banks of the Bloukrans River, is where you will find Stoney Ridge.
Essentially a training venue, the Stoney Ridge Off-road Academy is recognised by Mitsubishi Xplorer.
Owner John Rich is well known in the industry, personally and as a training facilitator.
The six trails are of a very high standard. Five are 4x4 trails and one is for 4x2s with diff lock. Most are guided and can be tailored to suit individual experience, time constraints and vehicle limitations.
The trails wind through 2 400 hectares of indigenous bushveld, taking in a range of terrain – from steep slopes, shale, rock steps, sand, river crossings and dongas.
There are escape routes along the way should you run into difficulties.
Official training courses are held over two days and include lectures and practical training.
GPS courses are also available. The latest addition is the option of a self-drive GPS route or an instructional trail with John as your guide.
John and his wife, Susan, offer laid-back hospitality, with wholesome meals, hot showers and comfy beds.
Children are welcome, so it is a great family destination.
What you need to know
Accommodation:
The Phumula Bush Camp caters for up to 24 guests. Meals are available on request, and include a full farmhouse breakfast, light lunch and sumptuous dinner, served either around the campfire or in the large boma with log fires and bar. There’s also a campsite on the banks of the Bloukrans River.
What else?
Mountain biking, hiking (packed lunch provided), fishing, mountain climbing, abseiling, game viewing, river-tubing in summer and birding (290 species). Archery, paint ball, horse riding and team-building exercises are available on request. Photographic courses can be arranged.
Contact:
Jacqui Ikin
036 354 7012,
082 338 8809,
John Rich
073 697 5108;
jacqui@stoneyridge.co.za,
john@stoneyridge.co.za,
www.stoneyridge.co.za
Nearest town: Weenen (14 km)
Best time to go: All year round
Trail distance: Up to 200 km
How long will I be driving: 10-12 hours
GPS: S28.76719 E29.95766
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