In 2002, a South African guy Kevin Vermaak took part in the famous La Ruta race in Costa Rica and was inspired to start something similar in his home country.

Now, 12 years later, the race known as Cape Epic invites hundreds riders to cycle 435 miles over eight days including 14,850m of climbing through South Africa’s wine regions.

Amateurs compete alongside professionals, but you’ll have to get in there early as spaces are limited. You can either apply through the early bird option or hope to be allocated a lottery space.

It’s a team event, so you’ll need someone mad enough to do it with you. Entry fees for 2015 are R 53,700 per team (£2,971). Read more about the race here.