Millwood Forest

Millwood Goldfields

overview
of Millwood Forest

Millwood Forest is a historic section of the Knysna Forest, located in the Garden Route National Park near Rheenendal, west of Knysna. It's known for its lush indigenous forest, deep gorges, and rich biodiversity, but also for its gold rush history in the 1880s.

making the
race possible

redbull_kindlingNIGHT BURNicon

Our Chase the Fox style criterium (for qualifiers and wild cards only) kicks off just past sunset after Stage 3. Bonfires light the loop at Burn Camp. Music from live DJs and the cheers of fellow riders make for a race atmosphere unlike anything else.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners squirtSquirt — Bike Maintenance Partner icon

Squirt is a South African innovation success story – trusted by riders around the world for its biodegradable bike care products. From its original long-lasting chain lubricant to its range of bio bike wash and sealant solutions, Squirt helps keep bikes at the race clean and running smooth.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners meerendalMeerendal – Wine Partnericon

Our partnership with Meerendal Wine Estate brings together the raw adventure of our race and the refined craft of one of South Africa’s most respected winemakers. In October, riders will enjoy a curated selection of Meerendal’s fine wines, specially chosen for the event—a true taste of South Africa.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners Red BullRed Bull – Energy Drink Partnericon

Red Bull powers the high-tempo build-up to the Night Burn – from the Red Bull KM qualifier on stage 2 to the energy, lights, music and pure after-dark adrenaline of Night Burn, held after stage 3.

SACT – Community Development Partnericon

Since 2001, the South African College for Tourism has been empowering marginalised youth in rural and peri-urban communities, creating opportunities in hospitality and conservation. With its focus on women’s empowerment and skills development, SACT has played a vital role in shaping the vision for our Burn Camps.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners vulproVulpro – Conservation Partner icon

We’re inspired by the resilience of the wild landscapes we traverse — and few species embody this spirit like vultures. VulPro, Africa’s leading vulture conservation organisation, is fighting to protect these remarkable animals from the brink of extinction.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners knysnaKnysna – Start Town icon

The jewel of the Garden Route has a history in off-road stage racing. Knysna marks both a beginning and a homecoming — the launchpad for a new gravel adventure shaped by decades of legacy.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners graaff reinetGraaff Reinet – Host Town icon

Graaff Reinet is South Africa’s fourth-oldest town – steeples, stories and proud Karoo identity. Surrounded by mountains and rich in Karoo heritage, this is the gateway to the Karoo and is a key race milestone.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners BlaauwaterBlaauwater Farms – Host Location icon

Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, beneath the watchful Lootsberg mountains, Blaauwater is a place shaped by time and tradition. Home to the Kingwill family for generations, it stands as a testament to resilience and connection to the land.

Nedbank Gravel Burn partners himoinsaHimoinsa — Remote Power Partnericon

Burn Camps are set up in remote corners of the Karoo, from scratch, where there was once just a patch of dusty, spiky ground. Now, the Burn Camps are bustling villages with power, lighting, heat, cold and running water — in many ways thanks to Himoinsa, a global leader in generator technology.

ready to ride?

Like what you see? Join us for Nedbank Gravel Burn 2026.