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