Following the conclusion of the 2008 Absa Cape Epic, a thousand-kilometre oddyssey across South Africa's Western Cape, we had to share these fantastic photos with you.

Geddan Ruddock and Gerard Dirks of Absa G Power during stage five

More than enough dust being kicked up on the last stage

Equally impressive as the terrain facing the riders, is the setup they enjoy once the riding is over

Shane Thomson in the singletrack in Grabouw forest during stage eight

Riding through Vergeleegen Wine Estate during stage eight

Despite such impressive scenery, the riders had little time to take it all in

The riders faced many challenges on the route, including a good few river crossings to dampen the dust

Sometimes there's no option other than dismounting and pushing or carrying the bike over rough obstacles

Karl Platt of Bulls checks his computer statistics after stage four

Dam crossing during stage four from Riversdale to Swellend

Jose Silva enjoying a slice of singletrack