Day 11 - Sutherland to Oasis (Cedarberg)

Trip Summary:

Stephen and I left Sutherland and the temperature was 1C. Luckily we were dressed for this. The temperature rose steadily to 18C by the time we got to Op Die Berg. At Oasis in the Cedarberg, it was a warm 28C.

At one point Stephen was ahead and missed the turning to Op Die Berg. I was lagging behind and by the time I got to the turn-off he was no-where in sight. I noticed his tyre marks showed he went straight. It was 27km before I could catch-up so we continued along the road resulting in an extra 70km trip.

It was another great ride through the following passes each with stunning views:

1) Verlatekloof Pass (Tar)

2) Peerboomkloof Pass (Gravel)

3) Katbakkies Pass (Tar & Gravel)

4) Blinkberg Pass (Gravel)

5) Grootrivier Hoogte Pass (Gravel)

The detour required us to travel North along the R355 which is a gravel road. We passed many vehicles travelling South and each vehicle kicked up a cloud of dust that prevented you seeing 20m ahead. You had to keep your direction and hope for the best until the dust moved on so you could reset your direction. A rider in another group ended up driving off the road due to this, luckily no injury or damage.

The Oasis is as the word says, a real "oasis". We stayed in tents Bravo 1 & 2 that included a matress and linen. The restuarant and pub were very busy as the accommodation was fully booked.

Stephen and I were sitting at the pub enjoying the view when a guy walked in who I recognized from Dubai with whom I worked. I called "Mark!" and he turned around. What are the chances? We chatted for a while. He and his mates were riding through the Cedarberg. They are extreme riders who race rather than amble along like Stephen and I. The clientelle at the Oasis are mainly runners, cyclists and motorbike riders which allows for a brilliant friendly vibe on site. We chatted to a number of other motorbike riders and share stories.