ROUTE

WHERE THE SHEEP TRAIL TAKES YOU...

DAY 1

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

DISTANCE: 8KM

WATER POINTS: WP 1 – Tot-Hier-Toe Padstall| WP 2 – Aunt Evelyn | WP 3 & 4 – Boetie’s Pub and The Village Inn.

ROAD SURFACE: A mix between Jeep tracks, Single tracks, Gravel and District road.

ROUTE: Day 1 is all about exploring the enchanting village of Nieu-Bethesda and discovering the hidden gems that make it so special. The 8 km route winds through town, with unique pit stops and local highlights along the way.

Starting on the village’s iconic gravel streets, runners soon tackle a switchback singletrack climb up the surrounding koppie, where a stop at Aunt Evelyn’s house offers a refreshing homemade ginger beer. The route then meanders along scenic singletrack and past Nieu-Bethesda’s historic water furrows, the lifeblood of the village. A dual check-in stop at Boeties Pub for a cold beer and The Village Inn Restaurant for a delicious cinnamon-sugar pancake keeps the energy high before runners return to the race village, having experienced the true charm of this unique Karoo town.

DAY 2

CONQUER THE CLIMB

DISTANCE: 19.3KM | CLIMBING 300M

WATER POINTS: WP 1 – 9km | WP 2 – 15km

ROAD SURFACE: Mainly gravel roads.

ROUTE: Runners head out of Nieu-Bethesda on a gradual gravel climb, rewarded with sweeping views across the valley. Settle into your rhythm, soak up the scenery, and make your way to the welcoming waterpoint at Doornberg Guest Farm. Owned by the same family for over 150 years, Doornberg’s historic homestead, gardens, and farm buildings offer a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage.

From here, the route transitions onto a combination of jeep track and singletrack, winding through mesmerising Karoo landscapes. The final 6 km takes runners through a series of picturesque koppies, following the spring-fed stream that has supplied Nieu Bethesda with fresh water for more than a century.

As the route gently descends toward the finish, the pace quickens and the scenery remains unforgettable. By the time you cross the line, you’ll have experienced the very best of the Karoo and your adventure cup will be overflowing.

DAY 3

THE PADSTAL PARTY

DISTANCE: 6KM | CLIMBING 148M

WATER POINTS: 3.6KM

ROAD SURFACE: A mix between Jeep tracks, Single tracks, Gravel and District road.

ROUTE: The final day of Run the Owl Route is a relaxed 6km leg loosener and, just when you think you’ve discovered all that Nieu-Bethesda has to offer, there’s one last surprise waiting. Runners head out towards the double suspension bridge crossing the Gats River before skirting the edge of town on scenic gravel roads. The route leads to the beloved Tot Hier Toe Padstal, where farm-style treats and steaming moerkoffie await. Take a moment to meet the friendly farm animals – from ostriches and lambs to turkeys and more – before enjoying the final stretch back to the finish, bringing an unforgettable Karoo adventure to a close.