SierraWhisky
Puppy
I wonder how many of my trips trips started by staring at a road map, some while occupying a toilet seat?
Part 1
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Mule packed, leaving Nelspruit - Wed 16 Sept 2009.
Bad road, lots of coal trucks and roadworks between Ermelo and Newcastle via Volksrust. About 8 or 9 20min stops.
Got late at Memel, my stopover for the night. Should have taken Standerton-Vrede road instead.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQ2nctR1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/zVwxRvPOty8/HPIM4152.JPG">
Lamp, some whisky, enamel mug - my companions for the night at Flintstones, near Memel.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQA3Xk7CI/AAAAAAAAALM/16Na7ex1eUA/HPIM4159.JPG">
Next morning - Thu 17 Sept 2009. Beautiful stone cottage - Flintstones - belongs to Jeanne & Mel Botes (singer, guitarist, songwriter).
https://www.wheretostay.co.za/flintstones
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCEt9hbsbI/AAAAAAAAAdc/2_wdzCV-Nqc/HPIM4170.JPG">
The view from Flintstones Cottage. I did not want to leave, will surely come back.
S27.72575_E29.61696
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDrnLbXPI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/h81016BoV9c/200909171291.jpg">
Flintstones signboard at turn-off. About 7km from Memel. Oom Jannie Botes has the keys, and checks on the place.
S27.72986 E29.61113
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDriMBS_I/AAAAAAAAAcU/nQRMpF9CgRg/200909171292.jpg">
Vaaltyn heading for a storm.
(google vaaltyn = common name for a donkey, however this pack mule runs like a thoroughbred horse)
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQQ3mxgWI/AAAAAAAAALU/FAFZpVS00c4/200909171294.jpg">
Memel Hotel, excellent country hotel kept in good nick by Chris.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDr8QmpZI/AAAAAAAAAcY/rF80lN74J_E/200909171296.jpg">
I took the dirt road to Verkykerskop, then an excellent tar road to Harrismith.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGRrWy1DI/AAAAAAAAAdo/uXF0l0EvSdk/200909171298.jpg">
Winding road in the Golden Gate National Park.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPllYkjoI/AAAAAAAAAKE/ozOSl30dQUE/HPIM4171.JPG.jpg">
I always thought of a cliff bungy jump venture when passing here.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQNJsCbDI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Mc876fPYTJI/200909171299.jpg">
Finally another dirt road - between Cathcart and Hogsback.
From Golden Gate I passed some prospering towns like Clarens, but also some dilapidated shitholes like Hobhouse.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDrxeJy7I/AAAAAAAAAcc/mZAdovfmUKw/HPIM4177.JPG">
Roadside scene near Hogsback.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP7m-feQI/AAAAAAAAAKc/-otisoiKN9Y/200909171300.jpg">
Hogsback.
At this point I realised Vaaltyn had a front wheel running flat. The filling station only had basic stuff, and was about to close.
I put some tyre fix muti I brought with me, in the front wheel. Seemed to work.
Could not find any nail or thorn though causing the puncture.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPkPOl9eI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/0esaj4tYmS0/HPIM4179.JPG">
18 Sept 2009 - The next morning at Away With The Fairies Backpackers where I booked in the previous night. Excellent views! Great hospitality.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP7eapQwI/AAAAAAAAAKY/zZSqi3rfSEI/HPIM4182.JPG">
Radiator cowl attachment pin broke off on dirt road. Fixed with Pratley glue and cable ties.
Note stick to hold cowl in position while glue sets.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP8cajrLI/AAAAAAAAAKo/ys5HsrheebQ/HPIM4183.JPG">
Away With The Fairies Backbackers main dorm.
Charlotte, my sister-in-law from George, still had her F650GS in the BMW repair shop after radiator damage on a recent Baviaans trip,
so she sat out doing the Baviaanskloof with me. I then called Wouter Brand from Tracks-4-Africa to join me.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPlYAVwwI/AAAAAAAAAKA/9jVowg06iQ8/HPIM4185.JPG">
Arc view.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP30G96UI/AAAAAAAAAKM/2I81-MJKEqU/HPIM4192.JPG">
Probably the bath with the best view.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP5HxY__I/AAAAAAAAAKU/w_KcEg8VleU/200909181307.jpg">
Till recently this was a dirt road. Fortunately the canopy was preserved.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDsHndOqI/AAAAAAAAAcg/_PZWqeZZHI4/200909181310.jpg">
Bungy jumping - the "no strings attached" bridge.
One should rather practice first from the old Van Stadens bridge in the foreground.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR1ecXrI/AAAAAAAAAds/WfmVLSoVbQk/200909181313.jpg">
Sand covered the road at Gamtoos River Mouth.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP2tGUqLI/AAAAAAAAAKI/zQpOdlodQnc/200909181314.jpg">
Dunes at Gamtoos River Mouth.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR2uzJTI/AAAAAAAAAdw/lWT6cH6PArc/200909181317.jpg">
Got some clobber for myself & the kids. Not special prices though.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPkWulZWI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/TR4EVn_55s8/200909181320.jpg">
The Greek Restaurant = excellent food and hospitality.
Jeffreys Bay - S34.05211_E24.92316
Here I met Wouter Brand who came from George to do the Baviaans with me.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP71sWHkI/AAAAAAAAAKg/NkBfrFamMJo/200909191324.jpg">
Cristal Cove Backpackers, Jeffreys Bay
S34.03282_E24.93186
Wouter Brand checks his kit - Sat, 19 Sept 2009.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP8lXOe1I/AAAAAAAAAKk/knpLkkjIJDc/HPIM4195.JPG">
Note GPS mapping equipment and front suspension adjustment kit.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP38kqnDI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/SKDLMeh-XZw/HPIM4197.JPG">
Wouter Brand's BMW F800GS.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP86mtIsI/AAAAAAAAAKs/FvYWG5zfQ2Y/SW_pics_0909%20101.jpg">
The purpose of Tracks-4-Africa = constantly updating road travel data.
A traveler armed with the latest T4A GPS map must be informed about dead ends like this.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR9oYkvI/AAAAAAAAAd0/L1IDGrqIRw8/200909191328.jpg">
Some old transport memorabilia at the Padlangs road stall near Patensie.
S33.72874_E24.76466
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR3tiP1I/AAAAAAAAAd4/emynBiaWfD0/SW_pics_0909%20110.jpg">
Waitress, Wouter, SW.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBTsJAJQ0I/AAAAAAAAANA/pVspOYTpLfk/HPIM4198.JPG">
Can you see her? Queen Victoria?
When the first boere-kryger fell a few hundred metres from here, she looked away - today she's still looking the other side.
S33.75669_E24.68788
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUrt6VdfI/AAAAAAAAAN4/4LqXBodmIUM/200909191332.jpg">
Gamtoos River
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBTyzaC0qI/AAAAAAAAANE/kco8_qmO4SU/SW_pics_0909%20113.jpg">
SW on Baviaanskloof road.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJvSSDg4I/AAAAAAAAAFo/GzPMnmJTo6g/200909191333.jpg">
Wouter on Baviaanskloof road.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUr0G-HMI/AAAAAAAAAOA/og-VSvtQww8/SW_pics_0909%20114.jpg">
Hey, Jafta, wat maak jy daar?
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBU9czNY6I/AAAAAAAAAOg/lXp1WJfW3B4/200909191337.jpg">
Control gate entrance to Baviaanskloof Wilderness area.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZF3zqUI/AAAAAAAAAeA/NKBSH3kupF8/HPIM4201.JPG">
One of many scenic views.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUvIT9m6I/AAAAAAAAAOc/O_hF1wL1eek/HPIM4204.JPG">
The baboon skull - the ultimate symbol of evil in Africa - looking into the Baviaans (baboons) Kloof.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZFsGQHI/AAAAAAAAAeE/R1XuNW53ucQ/200909191340.jpg">
Wouter coming down Doodsklip.
S33.65787_E24.43310
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUk-jzgQI/AAAAAAAAANk/NEJ8bGY05a0/200909191343.jpg">
Wouters claims that BMW makes good engines, but lacks on suspension building,
so Wouter fitted KTM suspension.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUpDyJthI/AAAAAAAAANs/6Io_UacJP4s/200909191344.jpg">
BMW stock suspension replaced with more sophisticated front and rear suspension.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVCztX9pI/AAAAAAAAAOk/AvSjrHp4L2w/HPIM4205.JPG">
At a picnic site we met a father-&-son team from Prieska - Con and Andries on their KTM's.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZC35P-I/AAAAAAAAAeI/8ib4gxxSI04/200909191345.jpg">
Neck brace - apparently a must have.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUrg5n6KI/AAAAAAAAAN0/t3PwPW-cHVY/200909191346.jpg">
Neckbrace fitted.
Why smiling? I told him:"...en ek gaan die foto vir my dogter stuur."
En toe pak hy tande uit.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUr1R1MWI/AAAAAAAAAN8/nCNjBpJ9Dyk/200909191347.jpg">
Another stop to admire the view.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVV4miJaI/AAAAAAAAAOw/fobAdKBKTcY/200909191348.jpg">
Breathtaking views in all directions.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZATu5JI/AAAAAAAAAeM/binNcxht5DU/HPIM4207.JPG">
More breathtaking views.
Places like Baviaanskloof might be the Creator's way to give us a glimpse of Heaven.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVZk70VVI/AAAAAAAAAPE/2lR6knJmQ5I/SW_pics_0909%20117.jpg">
A paw-by-paw challenging some rough terrain.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKFUNgGBI/AAAAAAAAAHY/tOkAJEaqjk0/200909191355.jpg">
One of those old world police stations when the buildings & gardens were still the pride of the station commander.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKc4TCgNI/AAAAAAAAAIs/XzMa2Pv4ebI/SW_pics_0909%20118.jpg">
Looking for "iets vir die dors".
At some stage, without me noticing, Wouter turned off on a secondary road looking for a shop. As I could not see his dust anymore,
I opened throttle to catch up with him. Wouter enquired at a donkey cart driver and confirmed that I have passed him.
So I was "chasing" Wouter and Wouter was chasing me. Eventually I stopped to take some pictures, so Wouter caught up with me.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVbja-YgI/AAAAAAAAAPI/CZTQQ8WKFQY/200909191359.jpg">
Uitspan at Uitspan Camping & Accommodation.
S33.51585_E23.70521
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKhosaaFI/AAAAAAAAAI4/R7U6A0lGePE/HPIM4208.JPG">
The restaurant at Uitspan.
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZaXOM2I/AAAAAAAAAeQ/CNeG0y6hGZA/200909191361.jpg">
This harvester is old, really old.
Manufactured by Clayton & Shuttleworth Ltd, Lincoln. Date unknown.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKNIeWArI/AAAAAAAAAHw/VF5U_xKQ5a4/200909191368.jpg">
The chalets and campsites in the kloof at Uitspan. I assume the rock was there first.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKQDiRMbI/AAAAAAAAAH4/mDqNMxR4XK4/200909191369.jpg">
Near the N9 between Willowmore and Uniondale,
waiting for the cyclists in their cars to pass and dust to settle.
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKAyyaggI/AAAAAAAAAGw/TUeDR-30MZQ/200909191372.jpg">
Approaching a bridge on the Prince Alfred Pass between Avontuur and Knysna.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKEw_vRUI/AAAAAAAAAHU/X5Ge8yylcQc/HPIM4210.JPG">
One of those places where you quickly want to stop for cold refreshments,
but it's such a nice place, nice people, exceeding expectations, so you end up spending the night.
S33.81354_E23.17497
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKItu379I/AAAAAAAAAHk/DuqVdcmYzBI/200909191373.jpg">
Angie, SW & Harold in the pub. Harold and Angie are the owners of this lovely place.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJxpFOiZI/AAAAAAAAAFw/klEDTLmvvHc/HPIM4214.JPG">
Chef Cha-Cha preparing our meal in the neat kitchen.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJzeoTkyI/AAAAAAAAAF8/QRSpZ4a2-fc/HPIM4216.JPG">
The pub at Angie's. I like the black wattle chairs.
More alien trees should be cut and converted into furniture and other uses.
<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJ-ZrFZ9I/AAAAAAAAAGc/EIVZE22vL-0/200909191375.jpg">
Basil, the resident sheep "dog".
<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCJ-_9UlQI/AAAAAAAAAec/13kgRDDhFg4/200909191378.jpg">
Harold is still a serious biker, he has owned 61 bikes in his life.
His current bikes are a Cagiva 1000, this Suzuki 1100 SlingShot and a Honda CRF450 off-road.
<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCJ_BFcWvI/AAAAAAAAAeg/XfGf9aqC1LQ/200909191379.jpg">
Carl's KTM 950, SW's KLR650, Bernies' 1988 Honda Africa Twin, Wouter's BMW F800GS.
Part 1
<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBIvkZXY3I/AAAAAAAAAFA/3H1IY9_HRVA/HPIM4150.JPG">
Mule packed, leaving Nelspruit - Wed 16 Sept 2009.
Bad road, lots of coal trucks and roadworks between Ermelo and Newcastle via Volksrust. About 8 or 9 20min stops.
Got late at Memel, my stopover for the night. Should have taken Standerton-Vrede road instead.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQ2nctR1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/zVwxRvPOty8/HPIM4152.JPG">
Lamp, some whisky, enamel mug - my companions for the night at Flintstones, near Memel.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQA3Xk7CI/AAAAAAAAALM/16Na7ex1eUA/HPIM4159.JPG">
Next morning - Thu 17 Sept 2009. Beautiful stone cottage - Flintstones - belongs to Jeanne & Mel Botes (singer, guitarist, songwriter).
https://www.wheretostay.co.za/flintstones
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCEt9hbsbI/AAAAAAAAAdc/2_wdzCV-Nqc/HPIM4170.JPG">
The view from Flintstones Cottage. I did not want to leave, will surely come back.
S27.72575_E29.61696
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDrnLbXPI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/h81016BoV9c/200909171291.jpg">
Flintstones signboard at turn-off. About 7km from Memel. Oom Jannie Botes has the keys, and checks on the place.
S27.72986 E29.61113
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDriMBS_I/AAAAAAAAAcU/nQRMpF9CgRg/200909171292.jpg">
Vaaltyn heading for a storm.
(google vaaltyn = common name for a donkey, however this pack mule runs like a thoroughbred horse)
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQQ3mxgWI/AAAAAAAAALU/FAFZpVS00c4/200909171294.jpg">
Memel Hotel, excellent country hotel kept in good nick by Chris.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDr8QmpZI/AAAAAAAAAcY/rF80lN74J_E/200909171296.jpg">
I took the dirt road to Verkykerskop, then an excellent tar road to Harrismith.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGRrWy1DI/AAAAAAAAAdo/uXF0l0EvSdk/200909171298.jpg">
Winding road in the Golden Gate National Park.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPllYkjoI/AAAAAAAAAKE/ozOSl30dQUE/HPIM4171.JPG.jpg">
I always thought of a cliff bungy jump venture when passing here.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBQNJsCbDI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Mc876fPYTJI/200909171299.jpg">
Finally another dirt road - between Cathcart and Hogsback.
From Golden Gate I passed some prospering towns like Clarens, but also some dilapidated shitholes like Hobhouse.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDrxeJy7I/AAAAAAAAAcc/mZAdovfmUKw/HPIM4177.JPG">
Roadside scene near Hogsback.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP7m-feQI/AAAAAAAAAKc/-otisoiKN9Y/200909171300.jpg">
Hogsback.
At this point I realised Vaaltyn had a front wheel running flat. The filling station only had basic stuff, and was about to close.
I put some tyre fix muti I brought with me, in the front wheel. Seemed to work.
Could not find any nail or thorn though causing the puncture.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPkPOl9eI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/0esaj4tYmS0/HPIM4179.JPG">
18 Sept 2009 - The next morning at Away With The Fairies Backpackers where I booked in the previous night. Excellent views! Great hospitality.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP7eapQwI/AAAAAAAAAKY/zZSqi3rfSEI/HPIM4182.JPG">
Radiator cowl attachment pin broke off on dirt road. Fixed with Pratley glue and cable ties.
Note stick to hold cowl in position while glue sets.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP8cajrLI/AAAAAAAAAKo/ys5HsrheebQ/HPIM4183.JPG">
Away With The Fairies Backbackers main dorm.
Charlotte, my sister-in-law from George, still had her F650GS in the BMW repair shop after radiator damage on a recent Baviaans trip,
so she sat out doing the Baviaanskloof with me. I then called Wouter Brand from Tracks-4-Africa to join me.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPlYAVwwI/AAAAAAAAAKA/9jVowg06iQ8/HPIM4185.JPG">
Arc view.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP30G96UI/AAAAAAAAAKM/2I81-MJKEqU/HPIM4192.JPG">
Probably the bath with the best view.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP5HxY__I/AAAAAAAAAKU/w_KcEg8VleU/200909181307.jpg">
Till recently this was a dirt road. Fortunately the canopy was preserved.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCDsHndOqI/AAAAAAAAAcg/_PZWqeZZHI4/200909181310.jpg">
Bungy jumping - the "no strings attached" bridge.
One should rather practice first from the old Van Stadens bridge in the foreground.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR1ecXrI/AAAAAAAAAds/WfmVLSoVbQk/200909181313.jpg">
Sand covered the road at Gamtoos River Mouth.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP2tGUqLI/AAAAAAAAAKI/zQpOdlodQnc/200909181314.jpg">
Dunes at Gamtoos River Mouth.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR2uzJTI/AAAAAAAAAdw/lWT6cH6PArc/200909181317.jpg">
Got some clobber for myself & the kids. Not special prices though.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBPkWulZWI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/TR4EVn_55s8/200909181320.jpg">
The Greek Restaurant = excellent food and hospitality.
Jeffreys Bay - S34.05211_E24.92316
Here I met Wouter Brand who came from George to do the Baviaans with me.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP71sWHkI/AAAAAAAAAKg/NkBfrFamMJo/200909191324.jpg">
Cristal Cove Backpackers, Jeffreys Bay
S34.03282_E24.93186
Wouter Brand checks his kit - Sat, 19 Sept 2009.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP8lXOe1I/AAAAAAAAAKk/knpLkkjIJDc/HPIM4195.JPG">
Note GPS mapping equipment and front suspension adjustment kit.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP38kqnDI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/SKDLMeh-XZw/HPIM4197.JPG">
Wouter Brand's BMW F800GS.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBP86mtIsI/AAAAAAAAAKs/FvYWG5zfQ2Y/SW_pics_0909%20101.jpg">
The purpose of Tracks-4-Africa = constantly updating road travel data.
A traveler armed with the latest T4A GPS map must be informed about dead ends like this.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR9oYkvI/AAAAAAAAAd0/L1IDGrqIRw8/200909191328.jpg">
Some old transport memorabilia at the Padlangs road stall near Patensie.
S33.72874_E24.76466
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCGR3tiP1I/AAAAAAAAAd4/emynBiaWfD0/SW_pics_0909%20110.jpg">
Waitress, Wouter, SW.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBTsJAJQ0I/AAAAAAAAANA/pVspOYTpLfk/HPIM4198.JPG">
Can you see her? Queen Victoria?
When the first boere-kryger fell a few hundred metres from here, she looked away - today she's still looking the other side.
S33.75669_E24.68788
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUrt6VdfI/AAAAAAAAAN4/4LqXBodmIUM/200909191332.jpg">
Gamtoos River
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBTyzaC0qI/AAAAAAAAANE/kco8_qmO4SU/SW_pics_0909%20113.jpg">
SW on Baviaanskloof road.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJvSSDg4I/AAAAAAAAAFo/GzPMnmJTo6g/200909191333.jpg">
Wouter on Baviaanskloof road.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUr0G-HMI/AAAAAAAAAOA/og-VSvtQww8/SW_pics_0909%20114.jpg">
Hey, Jafta, wat maak jy daar?
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBU9czNY6I/AAAAAAAAAOg/lXp1WJfW3B4/200909191337.jpg">
Control gate entrance to Baviaanskloof Wilderness area.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZF3zqUI/AAAAAAAAAeA/NKBSH3kupF8/HPIM4201.JPG">
One of many scenic views.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUvIT9m6I/AAAAAAAAAOc/O_hF1wL1eek/HPIM4204.JPG">
The baboon skull - the ultimate symbol of evil in Africa - looking into the Baviaans (baboons) Kloof.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZFsGQHI/AAAAAAAAAeE/R1XuNW53ucQ/200909191340.jpg">
Wouter coming down Doodsklip.
S33.65787_E24.43310
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUk-jzgQI/AAAAAAAAANk/NEJ8bGY05a0/200909191343.jpg">
Wouters claims that BMW makes good engines, but lacks on suspension building,
so Wouter fitted KTM suspension.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUpDyJthI/AAAAAAAAANs/6Io_UacJP4s/200909191344.jpg">
BMW stock suspension replaced with more sophisticated front and rear suspension.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVCztX9pI/AAAAAAAAAOk/AvSjrHp4L2w/HPIM4205.JPG">
At a picnic site we met a father-&-son team from Prieska - Con and Andries on their KTM's.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZC35P-I/AAAAAAAAAeI/8ib4gxxSI04/200909191345.jpg">
Neck brace - apparently a must have.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUrg5n6KI/AAAAAAAAAN0/t3PwPW-cHVY/200909191346.jpg">
Neckbrace fitted.
Why smiling? I told him:"...en ek gaan die foto vir my dogter stuur."
En toe pak hy tande uit.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBUr1R1MWI/AAAAAAAAAN8/nCNjBpJ9Dyk/200909191347.jpg">
Another stop to admire the view.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVV4miJaI/AAAAAAAAAOw/fobAdKBKTcY/200909191348.jpg">
Breathtaking views in all directions.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZATu5JI/AAAAAAAAAeM/binNcxht5DU/HPIM4207.JPG">
More breathtaking views.
Places like Baviaanskloof might be the Creator's way to give us a glimpse of Heaven.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVZk70VVI/AAAAAAAAAPE/2lR6knJmQ5I/SW_pics_0909%20117.jpg">
A paw-by-paw challenging some rough terrain.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKFUNgGBI/AAAAAAAAAHY/tOkAJEaqjk0/200909191355.jpg">
One of those old world police stations when the buildings & gardens were still the pride of the station commander.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKc4TCgNI/AAAAAAAAAIs/XzMa2Pv4ebI/SW_pics_0909%20118.jpg">
Looking for "iets vir die dors".
At some stage, without me noticing, Wouter turned off on a secondary road looking for a shop. As I could not see his dust anymore,
I opened throttle to catch up with him. Wouter enquired at a donkey cart driver and confirmed that I have passed him.
So I was "chasing" Wouter and Wouter was chasing me. Eventually I stopped to take some pictures, so Wouter caught up with me.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBVbja-YgI/AAAAAAAAAPI/CZTQQ8WKFQY/200909191359.jpg">
Uitspan at Uitspan Camping & Accommodation.
S33.51585_E23.70521
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKhosaaFI/AAAAAAAAAI4/R7U6A0lGePE/HPIM4208.JPG">
The restaurant at Uitspan.
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCIZaXOM2I/AAAAAAAAAeQ/CNeG0y6hGZA/200909191361.jpg">
This harvester is old, really old.
Manufactured by Clayton & Shuttleworth Ltd, Lincoln. Date unknown.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKNIeWArI/AAAAAAAAAHw/VF5U_xKQ5a4/200909191368.jpg">
The chalets and campsites in the kloof at Uitspan. I assume the rock was there first.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKQDiRMbI/AAAAAAAAAH4/mDqNMxR4XK4/200909191369.jpg">
Near the N9 between Willowmore and Uniondale,
waiting for the cyclists in their cars to pass and dust to settle.
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKAyyaggI/AAAAAAAAAGw/TUeDR-30MZQ/200909191372.jpg">
Approaching a bridge on the Prince Alfred Pass between Avontuur and Knysna.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKEw_vRUI/AAAAAAAAAHU/X5Ge8yylcQc/HPIM4210.JPG">
One of those places where you quickly want to stop for cold refreshments,
but it's such a nice place, nice people, exceeding expectations, so you end up spending the night.
S33.81354_E23.17497
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<img src="https://lh6.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBKItu379I/AAAAAAAAAHk/DuqVdcmYzBI/200909191373.jpg">
Angie, SW & Harold in the pub. Harold and Angie are the owners of this lovely place.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJxpFOiZI/AAAAAAAAAFw/klEDTLmvvHc/HPIM4214.JPG">
Chef Cha-Cha preparing our meal in the neat kitchen.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJzeoTkyI/AAAAAAAAAF8/QRSpZ4a2-fc/HPIM4216.JPG">
The pub at Angie's. I like the black wattle chairs.
More alien trees should be cut and converted into furniture and other uses.
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<img src="https://lh3.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StBJ-ZrFZ9I/AAAAAAAAAGc/EIVZE22vL-0/200909191375.jpg">
Basil, the resident sheep "dog".
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<img src="https://lh4.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCJ-_9UlQI/AAAAAAAAAec/13kgRDDhFg4/200909191378.jpg">
Harold is still a serious biker, he has owned 61 bikes in his life.
His current bikes are a Cagiva 1000, this Suzuki 1100 SlingShot and a Honda CRF450 off-road.
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<img src="https://lh5.ggpht.com/_NIDPVSXBKWQ/StCJ_BFcWvI/AAAAAAAAAeg/XfGf9aqC1LQ/200909191379.jpg">
Carl's KTM 950, SW's KLR650, Bernies' 1988 Honda Africa Twin, Wouter's BMW F800GS.
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