And guess what, rest days are over, so the wind blows again!!! At least this time it was from behind.
I hit the road just before 8am and had to battle into a head wind for the first 4km. Loose gravel as well, but once I hit the tar, things went well and I was doing over 40km/h, competing with the early morning car traffic.
Once I got onto the road going from the Strand to the Somerset Mall, I heard a serious creaking sound coming from the bottom bracket (bearings between the two pedals) and since I will be leaving "civilisation" now, I thought it best to pop into the bicycle shop along the way. They replaced my BB and I decided to buy a new wireless speedo since my GPS was also acting up. (Maybe I should have given my equipment another rest day?!) I had forgotten that I had my credit card on the handle bar pannier, and so I waited for Thys and Nerina to bring my wallet. This meant that I only got going again at around 11am (after doing only 17 of the 97 km I had to do for the day)
The long climb out of Somerset West was not nearly as bad as I expected and I was on my way to Stellenbosch soon. What a beautiful and scenic ride. The majestic mountains as a back drop with some of the vineyards starting to show autumn colours. Wow, what a fantastic country!
As I cycled through Stellenbosch, I caught up with T & N at a red traffic light and we agreed to stop for coffee somewhere outside Stellenbosch. We ended up at a new coffee shop / restaurant about 15 km out of town where I had freshly squeezed orange juice (to die for). The wind had dropped significantly and was still coming from behind. My wheels were singing on the tar and I had a song in my heart (I put on two new, semi-slick tyres the day before - what a difference from cycling on corrugated dirt roads!)
Road conditions were good and apart from some heavy traffic earlier in the day between G Bay and Stellenbosch, I had an easy ride.
I got to Malmesbury with an average speed of 21.3km/h (the fastest for this trip so far) after doing 97.2km. The caravan park is okay'ish, but we have rowdy neighbours again. I am sure they will settle down so that we can have a well deserved rest.
Tomorrow we will be off to Yzerfontein, via Darling. We are planning a lunch stop at Evita se Perron in Darling. The total distance for the day will be around 60km, so there is no need to rush. T & N will probably head back to G Bay first to pick up some luggage they left behind.
And oh, by the way, I had my 4th puncture today, just after I arrived at the campsite! (I also had a flat wheel after arriving at Peter and Desireé's place in Gordon's Bay - in both cases picking up thorns at my point of arrival - amazing!) This after putting new tubes in the tyres yesterday - I did however not put slime in the tyres - this was remedied immediately when I patched the leak!
Cheers then, 'till tomorrow. Thanks for all your support along the way - it is always good to hear from you.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
27 March 2010 - Hermanus (Sandbaai) to Gordons Bay
Today is actually Monday, the 29th, but I had a lovely day off yesterday and have only found the time to write now! Sounds like a holiday?!
Well, the ride from Hermanus to Gordons Bay was certainly along one of the most scenic routes in the world. On the one hand you have majestic mountains covered in Fynbos and on the other hand, the Atlantic Ocean with its rocky beaches.
I had the vision of perfect weather for this stretch of my journey, but this was not to be. The wind again, was howling from the West and I decided, for safety reasons, to load my pannier bags in the trailer and tackle the ride with only my handlebar bag and lunch box on the front carrier.
The wind did its best to blow me off the bike and I very nearly did come off a few times. For the most part, I was spinning in smallest chain ring and middle gears at the back (for those of you who don't cycle, this is like driving your car in 1st gear all the way!) There was a bit of rain as well from time to time, but it was not much of an issue.
From Hermanus, I rode past a turn-off to a viewing point for the Cape Epic Cycle tour. Time did not allow me to go and watch, and I would have loved to see the guys who are bigger maniacs than me!
The scenery between Kleinmond, Betty's Bay and Pringle Bay, is fantastic and even though I was fighting the wind, I was in awe most of the way. From Pringle Bay there is quite a long climb (but easy - wind did not help again!) to Rooiels. And what a sight as you crest the hill: The view took me back to when I was 9 years old and came over Sir Lowry's Pass for the first time and got my first glimpse of False Bay and Table Mountain in the distance. I was mind blown then, and I was mind blown (wind blown?) again!
Thys and Nerina joined me for coffee in Rooiels and then continued on to Gordon's Bay.
We are going to CT now, I will write later today!
Cheers for now.
Well, the ride from Hermanus to Gordons Bay was certainly along one of the most scenic routes in the world. On the one hand you have majestic mountains covered in Fynbos and on the other hand, the Atlantic Ocean with its rocky beaches.
I had the vision of perfect weather for this stretch of my journey, but this was not to be. The wind again, was howling from the West and I decided, for safety reasons, to load my pannier bags in the trailer and tackle the ride with only my handlebar bag and lunch box on the front carrier.
The wind did its best to blow me off the bike and I very nearly did come off a few times. For the most part, I was spinning in smallest chain ring and middle gears at the back (for those of you who don't cycle, this is like driving your car in 1st gear all the way!) There was a bit of rain as well from time to time, but it was not much of an issue.
From Hermanus, I rode past a turn-off to a viewing point for the Cape Epic Cycle tour. Time did not allow me to go and watch, and I would have loved to see the guys who are bigger maniacs than me!
The scenery between Kleinmond, Betty's Bay and Pringle Bay, is fantastic and even though I was fighting the wind, I was in awe most of the way. From Pringle Bay there is quite a long climb (but easy - wind did not help again!) to Rooiels. And what a sight as you crest the hill: The view took me back to when I was 9 years old and came over Sir Lowry's Pass for the first time and got my first glimpse of False Bay and Table Mountain in the distance. I was mind blown then, and I was mind blown (wind blown?) again!
Thys and Nerina joined me for coffee in Rooiels and then continued on to Gordon's Bay.
We are going to CT now, I will write later today!
Cheers for now.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
25 March 2010 - Pearly Beach to Hermanus
Things have been a bit hectic lately! Sorry, I do not always have the opportunity to write because of time issues, bad weather or no mobile reception. Excuses, excuses....
At this stage I am not even sure where I left off. Will try to recap briefly:
Day 1: Heideplaas to Wilderness - 77.5km
Day 2: Wilderness to Mossel Bay - 81.93km
Day 3: Mossel Bay to Gouritz - 67.46km
Day 4: Gouritz to Jongensfontein - 65.35km
Rest Day
Day 5: Jongensfontein to Witsand - 85.72km
Day 6: Witsand to De Hoop Nature Reserve via Malgas Pont - 66.85km
Day 7: De Hoop to Waenhuiskrans/Arniston - 77.71km
Rest Day
Day 8: Waenhuiskrans to Pearly Beach via Elim - 85.65km - will tell more about this ride below
Day 9: Pearly Beach to Hermanus (Sandbaai) - 71.74km
Day 8: Waenhuiskrans to Pearly Beach:
We decided to take a rest day in Waenhuiskrans and explore the surrounding area. After a night of heavy rain and a leaking tent, we set off towards Die Mond, Struisbaai and Cape Agulhas, the southern most point of Africa.
I suspect that due to the rain the previous night, there were many small tortoises out, drinking from the puddles in the road. This is always a pretty sight for me.
Die Mond is a "Cape Nature" Reserve with lovely picnic spots under the Milkwood trees, hiking trails and fresh water fishing. Worth a visit if you can spend the day as you have to pay a R25 entrance fee. We only had a quick look around and then continued on to Struisbaai.
Even though the wind was pumping, Struisbaai harbour was its usual, beautiful self with aquamarine water and colourful fishing boats. Great spot for photography and after taking some pictures, we had a quick drink at the Harbour Cafe.
From there, you continue in a westerly direction, driving right up against the rocky beaches to Cape Agulhas with its beautiful lighthouse built with limestone rocks from the area.
The Southern most point is a short distance away - I have attached a photo of Thys, Nerina and myself at the point marking the division between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
After a long day of exploring, we returned to a blustery campsite at Waenshuiskrans. Thys and Nerina's big tent (which I had been using the night before) was taking punishment in the wind and we decided to collapse it and that I would pitch my little tent for the night.
And so the morning of 24 March arrived. The plan was to ride to Elim - a Moravian Mission station with lovely Cape Dutch style thatched cottages lining the main road, spend the night there and push through to Hermanus the following day.
The going to Elim was good as the road had been tarred since the last time I drove on it. This came as a pleasant surprise and made riding much easier. There was a bit of a head wind in the morning, but since the terrain was quite flat, it was manageable. When I got to Elim, I phoned Nerina to ask her to find out how far it was to Pearly Beach. If I could push through, it would mean a shorter ride on the 25th. She said that it was somewhere between 25 and 35km and so I decided to push on (as it was still only 12:00).
But, ouch! The wind had picked up and was now coming directly from the front. This made the going very tough and there were times that I was doing 6 to 7km/h on flat roads! The road surface was now gravel, but it was in a fairly good condition.
A car pulled up next to me along the way (a lady and gentleman from Haga Haga in the Eastern Cape) and wanted to know the standard: where are you from, where are you going, why etc! The kind gentleman offered to drive slowly if I wanted to hold onto the trailer he was pulling, but I opted not to do this, as I don't think it would be very safe.
At one stage, I was asking God: if He could cleft the Dead Sea for the Israelites, could he not put a gap in the wind for me? Well, he sent my answer in the shape of a silver Isuzu bakkie with Nerina behind the wheel! I explained to her where to drive, and suddenly, because I was riding in the lee of the bakkie, I could my push my speed up to 20km/h going up slight hills! Believe me however, I was eating dust!
After way too short a distance, we had to turn off to the left and go over a hill (mountain?) with the wind blowing solidly from my right. By this time, it had picked up to at least 60km/h and road conditions had deteriorated seriously. There were many corrugations and lots of loose gravel. The wind from the side did not help at all and as a matter of fact, I was blown off my bike (or should I rather say the bike was blown out from underneath me). With the gusts, the bike was veering all over the show, and it was inevitable that my front wheel would end up in the loose gravel - and down she went! I am a bit bruised, but it is always the ego that takes a bigger beating!
The downhill that followed, was scary as I knew I was going too fast for the road conditions, 65.2km/h with a fully loaded bike!
The corrugations got worse and at times it was extremely difficult to make head way. Thys and Nerina had gone ahead at this stage to find accommodation and we ended up booking into a self-catering unit in Pearly Beach.
We had dinner at Loko 15, a local pub and restaurant. Lamb/tomato bredie(stew) was the dish of the day and at R25 a pop, it was an absolute bargain.
25 March: Pearly Beach to Hermanus (Sandbaai)
I woke up at 6am, packed my stuff and made coffee and oats for breakfast.
By 7:45 I was on the road. Not much sign of the predicted 30km/h westerly, but I was not going to complain! There were low clouds and it was wonderfully cool.
Not long into the ride, the first rain started falling, but did not stay around for too long. The road was virtually flat, and the going was good. As a matter of fact, I got to Gansbaai with an average speed of 20.7km/h!
Just out of Gansbaai, it started raining again, this time quite heavily with visibility decreasing rapidly. The road was very busy, and I was keeping a sharp eye on my rear view mirror. Every time a big truck (especially trucks - although cars are worse, just less scary) came up from behind, I pulled off the road and cycled on the gravel shoulder. The main climbing of the day, was done between Gansbaai and Stanford, but I have enough gears, even though my legs are tired!
I popped in to see some friends in Stanford, but they weren't in, so I kept going to Hermanus. Sadly, with the rain, the clouds were very low and I could not see much of the majestic mountains of the area. The weather was clearing as I approached Hermanus and my spirits started soaring as Hermanus was very much a milestone on this journey. If I had a breakdown between Plett and Hermanus, I would have had to make some plan for a lift, but from here on, we will have a trailer behind the bakkie with extra space.
Again I beat Thys and Nerina to our destination - her brother's house. Deon gave me some coffee and when my friends arrived, I tucked into some lunch (at least 5 slices of bread, an egg and avocado!) I am still a growing girl, after all!
After a warm shower, I had a very refreshing snooze and am writing this page now.
Stats for today: Distance 71.74km; Time on trail 4:02 ; time actually cycling 3:40 ; calories 1773
This page is too long, but at some later stage, when I run out of things to say, I will tell you more about my nutrition on the bike and other interesting things. (If this kind of thing interests you!)
Tomorrow is another rest day, and I must say, the timing is perfect! My body is a bit bruised and tender after the fall yesterday and it will do me good to rest and recover. We will clean the bakkie, do some birding and sightseeing in Hermanus.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
23 March 2010 Waenhuiskrans
No blog today, again!
Wind is howling, going to pack big tent up just now (7pm)
Have just pitched my small tent, packed Thys and Nerina's kitchen up and have to get off-line.
Promise to tell more later, in short, rain bucketed down last night, wind howling now and looks like more rain.
Change of plans, am going to Elim tomorrow and then Hermanus the following day. Weather prospects bad.....
Couldn't expect it to stay perfect, so cheers for now. Will catch up - if not tomorrow, then in Hermanus.
Otherwise all is well and bum seems to have healed well.
Cheers
Wind is howling, going to pack big tent up just now (7pm)
Have just pitched my small tent, packed Thys and Nerina's kitchen up and have to get off-line.
Promise to tell more later, in short, rain bucketed down last night, wind howling now and looks like more rain.
Change of plans, am going to Elim tomorrow and then Hermanus the following day. Weather prospects bad.....
Couldn't expect it to stay perfect, so cheers for now. Will catch up - if not tomorrow, then in Hermanus.
Otherwise all is well and bum seems to have healed well.
Cheers
Sunday, March 21, 2010
21 March, day 6 of cycling: Witsand to De Hoop Nature Reserve
Not much news this evening, too tired to write and don't have electricity, using laptop battery!
I am tired..... The road surface is very taxing, lots of corrugation and rocks and gravel. I think I am on the edge of developing a saddle sore, not sure what to do if this happens, but am using chamois cream.
Only did 66,85km today, but had 1007m ascent. Was on the trail for 7h37, but part of this time was spent drinking coffee at the Malagas Hotel, after crossing the Breede River by hand drawn pont / ferry.
Will tell more later, I promise, but for now it is cheers and off to bed!
I am tired..... The road surface is very taxing, lots of corrugation and rocks and gravel. I think I am on the edge of developing a saddle sore, not sure what to do if this happens, but am using chamois cream.
Only did 66,85km today, but had 1007m ascent. Was on the trail for 7h37, but part of this time was spent drinking coffee at the Malagas Hotel, after crossing the Breede River by hand drawn pont / ferry.
Will tell more later, I promise, but for now it is cheers and off to bed!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
20 March 2010 Day 5 - Jongensfontein to Witsand
The campsite at Jongensfontein will always stay one of my favourites, but sadly, one should avoid weekends as the noisy crowds move in. Our neighbours were partying till 3am... The setting of the caravan park is beautiful and we had a lovely spot under the milkwood trees.
I got going at 7:45 am after saying good bye to Andre and Hettie, my ex neighbours from Knysna, who were spending the weekend in the campsite. The wind was in my back and there was cool cloud cover for the first part of the ride. Road surface was a bit rough, but things improved gradually. About 20km's into the ride, I was caught from behind by Laurence, a gentleman from Cape Town with a holiday spot along the Duivenhoks River. We cycled together to Puntjie (where I saw a Rooikat (caracal) along the way. After a quick photo stop, we tackled the ride back to the main road going to Vermaaklikheid, where Laurence stayed behind and I started the serious climbing of the day. But this time, the clouds had disappeared and things had warmed up considerably.
The countryside is incredible. Just rocks everywhere and one can't believe how any animals can survive here. This is a major ostrich and sheep farming area.
I stopped counting when I got to 120 Blue Cranes, our very stately national bird. Always a pleasure to see these graceful creatures. At one spot, I was having a race with a Yellow Mongoose - I did not win....
When I crossed the Duivenhoks River, I could not help myself, and had to stop to dip my head in the water to cool off. From there on the wind picked up speed and by the time that I got onto the tar road going into Witsand, I was being pushed off the road by a South Easterly, blowing just off my nose. Hard work and even going downhill, I had to gear down and could only manage doing 11 to 12km/h!
Total distance for the day: 85,72km
Time spent cycling: 5:26:45
Time on the trail: 6:30:55
Calories: 2214
Ascent: 967m
The campsite in Witsand is not too hot and it is a real Afrikaner spot. As I write now, the Boeremusiek is blaring in the background. Hope to get to bed earlier today and believe I will sleep well, as the wind and sun takes a lot out of one.
Thys, Nerina and myself went for a lovely drive around town late in the afternoon and ended up having fish and chips at a local cafe / sports bar, while watching the Stormers and Cheetahs game.
Tomorrow we are off to De Hoop Nature Reserve and will cross the Breede River by hand drawn pont / ferry. Very exciting and I wonder what they will charge for a bicycle!
I got going at 7:45 am after saying good bye to Andre and Hettie, my ex neighbours from Knysna, who were spending the weekend in the campsite. The wind was in my back and there was cool cloud cover for the first part of the ride. Road surface was a bit rough, but things improved gradually. About 20km's into the ride, I was caught from behind by Laurence, a gentleman from Cape Town with a holiday spot along the Duivenhoks River. We cycled together to Puntjie (where I saw a Rooikat (caracal) along the way. After a quick photo stop, we tackled the ride back to the main road going to Vermaaklikheid, where Laurence stayed behind and I started the serious climbing of the day. But this time, the clouds had disappeared and things had warmed up considerably.
The countryside is incredible. Just rocks everywhere and one can't believe how any animals can survive here. This is a major ostrich and sheep farming area.
I stopped counting when I got to 120 Blue Cranes, our very stately national bird. Always a pleasure to see these graceful creatures. At one spot, I was having a race with a Yellow Mongoose - I did not win....
When I crossed the Duivenhoks River, I could not help myself, and had to stop to dip my head in the water to cool off. From there on the wind picked up speed and by the time that I got onto the tar road going into Witsand, I was being pushed off the road by a South Easterly, blowing just off my nose. Hard work and even going downhill, I had to gear down and could only manage doing 11 to 12km/h!
Total distance for the day: 85,72km
Time spent cycling: 5:26:45
Time on the trail: 6:30:55
Calories: 2214
Ascent: 967m
The campsite in Witsand is not too hot and it is a real Afrikaner spot. As I write now, the Boeremusiek is blaring in the background. Hope to get to bed earlier today and believe I will sleep well, as the wind and sun takes a lot out of one.
Thys, Nerina and myself went for a lovely drive around town late in the afternoon and ended up having fish and chips at a local cafe / sports bar, while watching the Stormers and Cheetahs game.
Tomorrow we are off to De Hoop Nature Reserve and will cross the Breede River by hand drawn pont / ferry. Very exciting and I wonder what they will charge for a bicycle!
Friday, March 19, 2010
18 March Day 4 Gourits to Jongensfontein, via Still Bay
I got an ear-full from a few friends for not writing yesterday! Sorry...
In this page I will give a brief description of yesterday's cycling, followed by a description of my day off in Jongensfontein.
I was expecting a very tough ride from Gouritz, as my gps maps did not show a direct route to Still Bay. This would have meant shooting north to Albertinia, then following the N2 before going south to Still Bay. What a joy and relief to find a direct route, going past lovely farmlands with lots of Fynbos and birds. Total distance in the end was only 65.35km, taking me 3h49 to complete (time on the track was 4h15 - the difference in time to be blamed on bird watching!)
I left Gouritz quite early in the morning and this was perfect for early morning birding. First 15km's were on smooth tar road and then changed to a fairly rocky dirt road. No worries as the scenery was breathtaking and I was looking out for little buck and other live animals.
My relief was great but I did not want to believe my eyes as I thought it must be Still Bay I could see in the distance, just as I crested a hill. Knowing that you don't have to do 101 km's somehow, revitalises you and gives you energy to go on.
The previous day, the lady at the municipal caravan park office, mentioned something about approaching SB through the Coloured Township and as I neared this settlement, I suddenly realised that stray dogs might be a problem. And sure enough, the highest heart rate achieved on the day, was as I was sprinting away from a dog!
As you near SBay, you drive/cycle along the Goukou River. This is a very enjoyable ride and a great part of my day off (Friday the 19th) was spent birding along the river and estuary with Thys and Nerina.
I made my way to Jongensfontein Camp Site, found a spot and before I could pitch my tent, I was joined by my travel companions. Our tents were pitched under the Milkwood Trees, with the sound of crashing waves just behind the dunes. A perfect camping spot if ever there was one!
The greatest part of today was spent birding along the river and estuary - Thys and Nerina are budding twitchers, and I am enjoying introducing them to this hobby of mine.
As I write now, I can hear the waves in the distance and the fat dripping in the fire as Thys is braaing for us.
I am packed and ready for tomorrow. I washed and oiled my bike today and bought spare pedals as I am slightly concerned about the bearings in my pedals. Will have it checked out and fixed if necessary in Hermanus, a few days from now. It helps to know you are prepared, should the worst happen! If a pedal breaks, I have to walk!
So, let me log off, we will be eating soon. Thanks for the comments a few of you have left, it is great to hear from you. Until tomorrow then, if all goes well. The ride should be around 75km, and the weather looks promising. Blessings!
In this page I will give a brief description of yesterday's cycling, followed by a description of my day off in Jongensfontein.
I was expecting a very tough ride from Gouritz, as my gps maps did not show a direct route to Still Bay. This would have meant shooting north to Albertinia, then following the N2 before going south to Still Bay. What a joy and relief to find a direct route, going past lovely farmlands with lots of Fynbos and birds. Total distance in the end was only 65.35km, taking me 3h49 to complete (time on the track was 4h15 - the difference in time to be blamed on bird watching!)
I left Gouritz quite early in the morning and this was perfect for early morning birding. First 15km's were on smooth tar road and then changed to a fairly rocky dirt road. No worries as the scenery was breathtaking and I was looking out for little buck and other live animals.
My relief was great but I did not want to believe my eyes as I thought it must be Still Bay I could see in the distance, just as I crested a hill. Knowing that you don't have to do 101 km's somehow, revitalises you and gives you energy to go on.
The previous day, the lady at the municipal caravan park office, mentioned something about approaching SB through the Coloured Township and as I neared this settlement, I suddenly realised that stray dogs might be a problem. And sure enough, the highest heart rate achieved on the day, was as I was sprinting away from a dog!
As you near SBay, you drive/cycle along the Goukou River. This is a very enjoyable ride and a great part of my day off (Friday the 19th) was spent birding along the river and estuary with Thys and Nerina.
I made my way to Jongensfontein Camp Site, found a spot and before I could pitch my tent, I was joined by my travel companions. Our tents were pitched under the Milkwood Trees, with the sound of crashing waves just behind the dunes. A perfect camping spot if ever there was one!
The greatest part of today was spent birding along the river and estuary - Thys and Nerina are budding twitchers, and I am enjoying introducing them to this hobby of mine.
As I write now, I can hear the waves in the distance and the fat dripping in the fire as Thys is braaing for us.
I am packed and ready for tomorrow. I washed and oiled my bike today and bought spare pedals as I am slightly concerned about the bearings in my pedals. Will have it checked out and fixed if necessary in Hermanus, a few days from now. It helps to know you are prepared, should the worst happen! If a pedal breaks, I have to walk!
So, let me log off, we will be eating soon. Thanks for the comments a few of you have left, it is great to hear from you. Until tomorrow then, if all goes well. The ride should be around 75km, and the weather looks promising. Blessings!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
17 March, Day 3: Mossel Bay to Gouritz River Mouth
Picture on left taken at Fransmanshoek while I made myself a mug of coffee.
I have decided to be less descriptive in the blog page. When I still had employment, I never had the time to read long stories! So, I will keep a separate diary with all the detail. (If I get around to publishing my book, you will be able to read the detail!) From now on I will keep it short, to the point and give basic stats. If you are happy reading a long story every day, let me know and I will continue doing so...
I left Mossel Bay at 08:39 this morning and for those of you who know the dorp, to get onto the N2, you have a serious climb. No time to warm up, but just keep your head down and the pedals spinning!
Total distance today: 67,46km Actual time riding was 3:57:34 but time from Msb to Gouritz spent on route was 5:53:45
Total ascent: 595m
Total descent: 581m
Calories burnt: 1676
Heart Rate average has dropped to 124 from an average of 149 on Monday. A sure sign that I am getting tired.
I had the wind from behind for most of the way, but had to fight a head wind into Gouritz. It looked like it might rain along the way, but it cleared up partially later in the day.
My bird tally for the trip stands at 70 with one new sighting for me!
Tomorrow is a long slog of over 100km to Stilbaai and Jongensfontein. The following day will be a well deserved rest day! Can't wait!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
16 March 2010 Wilderness to Mossel Bay
Woke up early this morning, but took so much time to get myself sorted, that I only got going by 8:24! There was a cold breeze blowing off the sea, but things warmed up very soon! I had to push my bike up to Wilderness Heights because I did not have the guts to cycle up Kaaimans River Pass. It has no space for cyclists and there are just too many reckless drivers flying up the pass. The hassle with Wilderness Heights is that it is incredibly steep! I gained 196m vertical climb over 2,19km!
The ride through Saasveld Pass, was beautiful - it is one of the last remaining pockets of native rain forest in SA. The road drops down to cross two dark watered streams (not rivers at present, due to the severe drought in the Southern Cape!) and needless to say, climbs up again after the lovely descents!
I made a quick detour to say goodbye to the Vorsters who had joined us for dinner the previous evening and got going after a refreshing cup of coffee and home made shortbread.
Whilst cycling through George, a car hooted at me and then came from behind, pulled up next to me and with window down, the passenger asked me where I was headed. One could not quite have a conversation like this, so they pulled off the road and I stopped next to them. This is what makes this tour enjoyable - meeting like-minded, enthusiastic and supportive people. The couple are heading off to Malawi soon for a similar tour, and I must say, I was tempted to ask if I could not join them! Guys, if you read this, please send me an e-mail with your contact details (karen.eichholz % vodamail.co.za) as I would love to hear more about your adventure. Excuse the missing @, I am told this prevents spam? Thanks Tillie!
I made my way through George and got onto the R102, past the airport (where I took a picture of the unfortunate SA Airlink plane that overshot the runway in December) and headed out to Glentana. This coastal village (if one could call it that - resort town would be more like it) has a fabulous setting right on the coast. This made a good spot to stop for lunch of baby potatoes, raisins, nuts and biltong.
Then on towards Groot Brak. I was passed by a slow motorcycle (got the feeling they were checking me out!) which I met again just outside Groot Brak as I cycled across the very narrow, single vehicle width bridge taking one to "The Island". The bikers (a guy and lady) stopped and we had the same conversation as I had had earlier in the day in George. Where are you going, is it safe, how far, how long, etc? The gentleman has just completed his 10th Argus Cycle Tour in CT and is hanging around Mossel Bay until the weekend, when Mossel Bay is hosting the Buffalo Motorcycle Rally. I will be sure to be far away by then!
I must admit that by this time my legs were protesting and I could feel that I have worked out more than my normal amount over the last 2 days. The slog into Mossel Bay, was just that! A slog! I made a quick stop for a gear tune-up at a bicycle shop along the way, as the chain has been chafing against the front derailleur.
At 16:00, a very tired cyclist reached the campsite at the Point in Mossel Bay. After speedily pitching my tent, I had a quick snooze and was joined by my travel companions 45 minutes later. A warm shower, coke, followed by a coffee (I hope I sleep tonight!) was just what the doctor ordered.
We had supper (left overs from last night), I caught up on blog, and will sign off now, to dive into my tent!
Cheers and be good
The ride through Saasveld Pass, was beautiful - it is one of the last remaining pockets of native rain forest in SA. The road drops down to cross two dark watered streams (not rivers at present, due to the severe drought in the Southern Cape!) and needless to say, climbs up again after the lovely descents!
I made a quick detour to say goodbye to the Vorsters who had joined us for dinner the previous evening and got going after a refreshing cup of coffee and home made shortbread.
Whilst cycling through George, a car hooted at me and then came from behind, pulled up next to me and with window down, the passenger asked me where I was headed. One could not quite have a conversation like this, so they pulled off the road and I stopped next to them. This is what makes this tour enjoyable - meeting like-minded, enthusiastic and supportive people. The couple are heading off to Malawi soon for a similar tour, and I must say, I was tempted to ask if I could not join them! Guys, if you read this, please send me an e-mail with your contact details (karen.eichholz % vodamail.co.za) as I would love to hear more about your adventure. Excuse the missing @, I am told this prevents spam? Thanks Tillie!
I made my way through George and got onto the R102, past the airport (where I took a picture of the unfortunate SA Airlink plane that overshot the runway in December) and headed out to Glentana. This coastal village (if one could call it that - resort town would be more like it) has a fabulous setting right on the coast. This made a good spot to stop for lunch of baby potatoes, raisins, nuts and biltong.
Then on towards Groot Brak. I was passed by a slow motorcycle (got the feeling they were checking me out!) which I met again just outside Groot Brak as I cycled across the very narrow, single vehicle width bridge taking one to "The Island". The bikers (a guy and lady) stopped and we had the same conversation as I had had earlier in the day in George. Where are you going, is it safe, how far, how long, etc? The gentleman has just completed his 10th Argus Cycle Tour in CT and is hanging around Mossel Bay until the weekend, when Mossel Bay is hosting the Buffalo Motorcycle Rally. I will be sure to be far away by then!
I must admit that by this time my legs were protesting and I could feel that I have worked out more than my normal amount over the last 2 days. The slog into Mossel Bay, was just that! A slog! I made a quick stop for a gear tune-up at a bicycle shop along the way, as the chain has been chafing against the front derailleur.
At 16:00, a very tired cyclist reached the campsite at the Point in Mossel Bay. After speedily pitching my tent, I had a quick snooze and was joined by my travel companions 45 minutes later. A warm shower, coke, followed by a coffee (I hope I sleep tonight!) was just what the doctor ordered.
We had supper (left overs from last night), I caught up on blog, and will sign off now, to dive into my tent!
Cheers and be good
15 March 2010 - Heideplaas to Wilderness
And so it began! Yes, it finally began and what a relief! The nerves were killing me before departure and I knew that once I hit the road, I would relax.
Monday was a perfect day - the way I have been visualizing the trip. Blue skies, no wind, not too hot. One could not ask for more!
I left the farm at 7:35 in the morning and headed for the N2. I was concerned about heavy traffic on this stretch of road, and to my relief, the traffic was no problem.
The cycle into Knysna went well and before I knew it, I was popping in to say goodbye to friends of mine. Two other stops were wasted as the people weren't in, but luckily, none were too far off the main route.
The other side of Knysna begged a quick stop, to take a picture of the old railway bridge (Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, sadly not running anymore) and the Heads in the distance. Road works were also not too much of a bother and so I continued to Sedgefield. On the way there, I was blessed with sighting two Bushbuck grazing in the long grass opposite Groenvlei.
In Sedgefield I made a quick stop with my family, for a cup of tea, then on to the bike shop for the tyres I ordered a few weeks earlier. Sadly these had not arrived, so I continued past Sedgefield and turned off the N2 towards Rondevlei Bird Hide. I stopped there for lunch, took my binoculars out and had a good time spotting some waders. The water level is quite low, so most birds were far off. I saw some Flamingo's way off in the distance - always special to see.
The road condition (gravel) was quite bad and my brains were shook up somewhat! Between the 2 Langvlei Lakes, I spotted a Malachite Kingfisher - also one of my favourites.
Not much happened further and by around 15:30, I made it to Wilderness National Park's Ebb and Flow campsite. After pitching my tent, having a shower and a lekker cup of coffee with Thys and Nerina (my friends traveling the same route by car), we went for a walk up-stream where we saw many Knysna Loeries (or Turaco's - think that is the new name). My bird count for the day was 46 species.
At 6pm we were joined by my "other Mother and Father", the Vorsters, from George, for a braai and kuier. A good time was had by all, and we were spoiled out of our socks, by Ma Sus's divine treats.
Then off to bed. So, the first day was complete and much enjoyed.
Monday was a perfect day - the way I have been visualizing the trip. Blue skies, no wind, not too hot. One could not ask for more!
I left the farm at 7:35 in the morning and headed for the N2. I was concerned about heavy traffic on this stretch of road, and to my relief, the traffic was no problem.
The cycle into Knysna went well and before I knew it, I was popping in to say goodbye to friends of mine. Two other stops were wasted as the people weren't in, but luckily, none were too far off the main route.
The other side of Knysna begged a quick stop, to take a picture of the old railway bridge (Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, sadly not running anymore) and the Heads in the distance. Road works were also not too much of a bother and so I continued to Sedgefield. On the way there, I was blessed with sighting two Bushbuck grazing in the long grass opposite Groenvlei.
In Sedgefield I made a quick stop with my family, for a cup of tea, then on to the bike shop for the tyres I ordered a few weeks earlier. Sadly these had not arrived, so I continued past Sedgefield and turned off the N2 towards Rondevlei Bird Hide. I stopped there for lunch, took my binoculars out and had a good time spotting some waders. The water level is quite low, so most birds were far off. I saw some Flamingo's way off in the distance - always special to see.
The road condition (gravel) was quite bad and my brains were shook up somewhat! Between the 2 Langvlei Lakes, I spotted a Malachite Kingfisher - also one of my favourites.
Not much happened further and by around 15:30, I made it to Wilderness National Park's Ebb and Flow campsite. After pitching my tent, having a shower and a lekker cup of coffee with Thys and Nerina (my friends traveling the same route by car), we went for a walk up-stream where we saw many Knysna Loeries (or Turaco's - think that is the new name). My bird count for the day was 46 species.
At 6pm we were joined by my "other Mother and Father", the Vorsters, from George, for a braai and kuier. A good time was had by all, and we were spoiled out of our socks, by Ma Sus's divine treats.
Then off to bed. So, the first day was complete and much enjoyed.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Getting nervous!
Today is Tuesday, the 9th of March. That means only 6 sleeps! I am not cycling at all at the moment. Saving the backside? No, just too lazy. I am still in Knysna and it has been incredibly hot here.
My cats are battling to settle down in their new home. They will be staying with Amanda, an ex neighbour and dear friend. My cats actually grew up here, but things have changed a bit for them in the 6,5 hears since I moved away.
I have been walking quite a bit - maybe that counts for some training - hope it is not training to push my bike, although I suspect that I will be doing a fair bit of that too.
Let me get back to work, catch you later.
Karen
My cats are battling to settle down in their new home. They will be staying with Amanda, an ex neighbour and dear friend. My cats actually grew up here, but things have changed a bit for them in the 6,5 hears since I moved away.
I have been walking quite a bit - maybe that counts for some training - hope it is not training to push my bike, although I suspect that I will be doing a fair bit of that too.
Let me get back to work, catch you later.
Karen
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