DIRT ROAD DELIGHT
6-13 FEBRUARY 2010
Taking the very best gravel roads that South Africa has to offer, we explore the Eastern Cape and Free State.
Included in this very scenic route are the spectacular Baviaanskloof, the Swartberg Pass and Die Hel.
Join us for a ride steeped in history!
Day 1
We depart from Johannesburg and travel through the Eastern Free State, skirting Lesotho.
Our overnight accommodation is at a Country Hotel.
Distance: 620km
Day 2
Depart after breakfast.
We follow the scenic Eastern Cape roads as we continue heading for the coast.
Tonight we will stay in the surfing mecca of the Eastern Cape.
Treat yourself to fresh seafood at dinner.
Camping, own meals.
Distance: 590km
Day 3
Today we pack-up, and head for Patensie. After breakfast in this quaint town we head for the hills so that the true adventure can begin.
We ride deeper into the mountains on our way to the breathtaking Baviaanskloof.
We now cross streams, ride on narrow tracks across the mountains, until we reach our destination in the middle of the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area.
The campsite is located beneath a dramatic cliff overhang in a gorge close to the road.
The site is equipped with gas and paraffin lamps, built- in braai, hot and cold shower and flush toilet, mattresses, cooking utensils and it can accommodate up to 15 people.
All that you need to bring along are clothes and sleeping bags, and they will even supply breakfast and dinner upon request - of course!
Only one group at a time is allowed, so it is all ours!
Camping with dinner and breakfast included.
Distance: 170km
Day 4
We exit Baviaanskloof and ride an unbelievably beautiful pass which will take us from Uniondale to Knysna. After lunch we continue along the Garden route to our next breathtaking overnight spot at one of the most scenic camp sites on the Eastern Cape coast.
Camping with own meals.
Distance: 250km
Day 5
Today we leave the sea and head inland.
We travel along a national monument to Oudtshoorn.
From Oudtshoorn we head on to the Swartberg Pass. This pass is considered one of the most spectacular in the world.
We ride an untarred road with steep zigzags and sudden switchbacks and the most breathtaking views at every turn, until we reach the turn off to Gamkaskloof.
'Die Hel' is a fascinating valley, where a small,proud community lived in isolation for more than 100 years. Access was on foot or by horseback and harvests of dried fruit and wild honey were carried out by pack animals.
Legend has it that Gamkaskloof was discovered when Trek Boers lost their cattle and followed their spoor into the fertile valley.
Petrus Swanepoel was the first to farm there and the valley supported the hard-working community until 1962 when a road was carved into the valley. A gradual exodus occurred and the last farmer to leave was Piet Swanepoel in 1991.
We camp in 'Die Hel' and dinner is included.
Distance:170km
Day 6
Depart from this wonderfully historical place.
We now ride back towards the Swartberg Pass, to the summit which is 1583m above sea level and then descend into the valleys of the Klein Karoo.
We visit the quaint hamlet of Prince Albert and then head on to ride a gorgeous tar pass, Meiringspoort.
We stay on tar until Graaf-Reinet and then travel on dirt to our overnight spot in a remote Karoo village that will touch something in your soul.
Accommodation is at a guesthouse on a B & B basis.
Distance: 470km
Day 7
After breakfast we head for Colesberg and Phillopolis. We then continue on good gravel roads through the central Free State to our Guest farm.
Accommodation is on a B & B basis.
Distance: 481km
Day 8
We depart for home after breakfast, heading towards Bothaville and Viljoenskroon.
We end our adventure back in Gauteng.
Distance: 412km
Total Distance 3200km
Cost
No Back up vehicle
Rider: min 4: R5 200-00
5-7: R4 500-00
8+: R3 400-00
With Back up vehicle
Rider: min 4: R9 500-00
5-7: R8 300-00
8+: R5 900-00
Pillion: R2 300-00
Included in Tour price
- Guide
- 4 Breakfasts as per itinerary
- 2 Dinners as per Itinerary
- All Camping and accommodation fees
Excluded in Tour price
- Toll fees
- Fuel
- Meals not specified
- Drinks
- Other activities
- Motorcycle Rental
