Club "GS" Eastern Cape Drakensberg Tour - 8th to 16th October 2011 : Fully booked
The Club is again off to the Eastern Cape Drakensberg from the 8th to the 16th October 2011.
This is an "off" road Tour
Trip is as follows :
8th October : Cape Town to Port Elizabeth : Town Lodge
9th October : Mountain ShadowsHotel : Elliot
10 & 11 th October : Tsitsa Falls : Maclear
12th & 13th October : Walkerbouts : Rhodes
14th October : Mountain View Hotel - Lady Grey
15th October : Camdeboo Cottages : Graaf Reinet
16th October Home
Duration will again be 8 nights and 9 days.
Distance : Approx 3500kms
The ride will suite most riders (not beginners), the more experienced with pillions. Read the reports on the forum to see where you fit in.
Tour will be accompanied by a back up vehicle & trailer. This will carry your baggage as well as a range of spares, tyres, refreshments, etc.
Cost : R5500.00 PP.
Accommodation in Hotels, Inn's, and other Accommodation on a DB&B basis. No camping!
Lunches, snacks, refreshments, incidentals, fuel, etc for your own account.
Visitors are welcome.
Herewith more details ;
Does the following Tour in the Rhodes/Maclear/Barkley East/Lady Grey area make you sit up and take notice. It should as it is some of the most fantastic Off Road Mountain Pass riding that I have ever done.
Much of the riding is breath taking in it's beauty and the amazing scenery will have you looking for permanent accommodation in the area.
Check this out :
There are 8 beautiful mountain passes linking the Wartrail/New England districts with neighbouring towns that include Barkly East, Rhodes and Lady Grey.
Naudes's Nek - Maclear to RhodesWith a summit of over 2,920m above sea level, Naudés Nek Pass is the highest dirt road in South Africa. Connecting Maclear with historical Rhodes this pass is based on the route taken by the intrepid Naudé brothers in the 1890s. Following the path that their horses instinctively took they carved out the route with picks and shovels. Today the road is more usually travelled in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle, but it still presents a challenge, particularly in winter when heavy snowfalls are common. Local advice regarding weather and road conditions should be heeded before attempting this spectacular pass. |
Carlisleshoek Pass -Rhodes to Tiffindell Ski ResortRhodes has a colourful history dating back to the 1880s and features many Victorian buildings. In 1997 the entire village was proclaimed as a Conservation Area in the Government Gazette which gives it official protection in order to preserve its unique character - it is the only complete village in the country that is a National Monument from one end to the other. The town benefits from its proximity to Tiffindell Ski Resort in the winter and during summer months has become renowned for fly-fishing. The road from Rhodes to Tiffindell is scenic and steep. You don't need 4x4, but you do need controlled power, particularly where the cement strips zigzag their way up the most extreme section. Approaching Tiffindell Ski Resort you will pass under the highest point in the Cape (3.001m above sea level). Known by local tribes as 'Makhollo' (Great Mother), the Europeans named this peak Ben McDhui after the mountain in Scotland and it is affectionately referred to as BenMac by local residents. |
Volunteershoek Pass -Tiffindell Ski Resort to WartrailTiffindell Resort was established in 1993 to give South Africans an opportunity to ski near their homes and others to ski in Africa. The carefully selected position of the resort, on the south facing slope, ensures that the snow lasts, extending the time available for snow skiing. Slopes cleared and groomed during summer quickly transform to ski runs after even the lightest of snowfalls. After traversing the high plateau, the Carlisleshoek Pass winds its way down to the farming community of Wartrail. The road is narrow with some precipitous drop-offs, so do pause to check for oncoming vehicles coming up the pass as they have right of way. After the steepest section, the road gives wonderful views of Halstone Krans and the valley farmlands beyond. There are some interesting rock formations along this section, the most notable of which is 'Funnystone' which lends its name to the farm opposite. |
Lundean's Nek -Wartrail to Telebridge Border PostWartrail is a mountain farming community steeped in tradition. Many of the farms are still inhabited by direct descendants of the original settlers to the area. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Lundean's Nek connects this part of the Eastern Cape to the Lesotho border at Telebridge. You may wish to stop in at 'Woolys of Wartrail' for a delicious cake, cup of coffee and to admire their emus! You will pass by the remote Lundean's Nek police station - whose primary roles are to prevent rustlers taking stolen stock across to Lesotho and to prevent smugglers taking green grass or diamonds in the opposite direction. Just beyond the police station the summit of the pass provides fantastic panoramic views of the Maloti Mountains. As the road progresses towards Telebridge the river to your right forms a natural border with Lesotho. This area was part of the former Transkei and you will pass many remote mountain villages where traditional cultures and farming practices are still very much a way of life. |
Joubert's Pass -Lady Grey to Barkly East via the WittebergThe third highest pass in South Africa, Joubert's Pass traverses the Witteberg Mountains in a scenic loop. The road passes through beautiful farmlands before rising up through the Lammergeier Nature Reserve. Each year extreme adventure racers run across these exposed peaks in the 100km Skyrun which ends at Tiffindell Ski Resort. As you descend into Lady Grey it is well worth stopping at the town dam; the wall is 25m high and this area is makes a scenic picnic stop. You can walk up a natural staircase to the top of the dam wall. The beautiful Dutch Reformed sandstone church is a National Monument and each Easter is one of the locations throughout the town used for a passion play depicting the biblical story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. |
Otto Du Plessis - Clifford to IdaWhilst still on the tar road between Lady Grey and the Clifford turn-off it is possible to see part of the unique railway linking Barkly East with Lady Grey to the northwest. Owing to the mountainous terrain, a system of eight 'reverses' was incorporated into the line, which has a gradient of 1 in 36, one of only two such systems in the world. The Class 19D steam locomotive that stands in Barkly East's square is a reminder of the early days of rail transport. From the Clifford turn-off the road ascents steadily through farmland until reaching the summit of Otto Du Plessis pass. This point has panoramic views from the top of the escarpment over the Tsomo valley. It is reputed that on a clear day it is possible to see the Indian Ocean. This may be a dubious claim, but there is no doubt at all that the vistas are far reaching and spectacular. As the pass descends to Ida it winds through sandstone gorges, forests, farmlands and across rivers in a breathtaking mountain wilderness. This variety of habitat means that Otto Du Plessis is one of the best birding passes in the area, so keep your eyes open for mountain 'specials' that include Drakensberg Rock-jumpers, Ground Woodpeckers and a variety of siskins. |
Barkly Pass - Elliot to Barkly EastBarkly Pass is the only tarred road on the 8 passes circuit, but is still not to be underestimated as it can be extremely slippery in wet or icy weather. The sandstone buttresses and rock formations are magnificent. See if you can spot the tortoise at the top of the pass, and the hiking boot (complete with sock and laces) further down. Barkly East is well known for its sheep farming, but a lesser known claim to fame is that the town has recorded snowfall during every calendar month - although not in the same year! |
Bastervoetpad - Barkly East/Elliot to UgieThis spectacularly scenic road links the top of Barkly Pass to Ugie and combines technical driving with stunning views. The road is rough in places, so high clearance vehicles are recommended and 4x4 in wet weather. The pass is named after the Griquas who settled in the area for a while before deciding that the valleys around Maclear and Ugie were a more comfortable habitation. The rock formations in the area are of interests to geologists as there is evidence of glacial formation. The views at the top of the pass are breathtaking and reminiscent of Valley of a Thousand Hills. ..................................................................................... However this is not all. This is just some of the fantastic riding that we will have on our ride of 8 nights and 9 days. Oh......I guess you want to know how easy/difficult the ride is? It certainly will not suite rank beginners but the average rider with some stretch should make it without to much difficulty. .......................................................................................................... Interested? Use your real name and I need your e mail address please. E mail me on geoffrussell@absamail.co.za or respond on the Forum. |
Hi Geoff
Please put my name down for the October tour.
Regards
Geoff
John & Des Gillespie - Back up vehicle - October
Not missing out again Geoff, please put me on the October list!
regards
marita
The keeper-of-the-diary has given her nod. Please put my name down for the October tour as well.
Regards
Bob
Hi Geoff. PLease put me on the list for October. Can't wait!! Brent
Geoff,
Can you please add Jane as my pillion? She has decided to come along.
Regards
Geoff
Done.
Geoff, can you please add me to the list for October 2011.
Cheers
Graham
Hi Geoff
If John takes the big step and gets his GS before then, Anli and I will drive the back-up vehicle!
Du Toit
The dates for the October Tour to this area have been confirmed as 8th October to 16th October.
Greetings all,
The confirmed dates for the Tour are 8th to 16th October 2011. 8 nights - 9 days. 3400kms.
Confirmed cost is R5500.00 PP DB&B including the back up vehicle, driver & trailer. The back up vehicle carries your baggage, an assortment of spares as well as a cooler box for your refreshments on route. The trailer carries an assortment of tyres, tubes, spare fuel, tie downs, tools, etc.
You pay for your breakfast on day 1, your refreshments, lunches, snacks, fuel, any spares you use, incidentals, water, etc.
The list of those that have showed an interest in the Tour are as follows. I have copied those that were not sure if or when they could make it as well as some of those who booked the April/May Tour. This Tour is doubtful due to insufficient numbers.
Geoff & Jane Edwards
John & Des Gillespie - back up driver & crew
Marita Nel
Marcus Minutelli
Hennie & Mieki Botha
Bob Goode
Brent Sender
Bruce Bell
Graham Montgomery
John & Valda Finch
Phillip Horstman (tentative)
The itinerary is as follows :
8th October : CT - PE
9th October : Elliot
10th & 11th October : Maclear
12th & 13th October : Rhodes
14th October : Lady Grey
15th October : Graaf Reinet
16th October : Home
I will be calling for deposits probably in April of R2750.00PP. Remember please that deposits and final payments are non refundable unless you can, with my assistance, replace yourself on the Tour.
Please advise immediately should you want to be removed from the list.
The Tour will be upon us before we know it.
Regards,
Geoff
John & Valda Finch booked.
The April Tour is now done and dusted and it is time to finalise the October Tour.
There are still a few places available.
After requesting confirmation from those that were on the list the new list of participants is as follows :
Geoff Russell (Guide)
John & Des Gillespie (Back up) - Paid in full
Hennie & Mieki Botha - dep paid
Geoff & Jane Edwards - dep paid
Brent Sender - dep paid
Bob Goode - dep paid
John Finch - dep paid
Herman Ebersohn - dep paid
Graham Montgomery - dep paid
Phillip Horstman - dep paid
Stan van Rensburg - dep paid
Bernie Wentzel - dep paid
Charles Oertel - dep paid
Russell Rathbone - dep paid
Eugene van Vuuren - dep paid
Gunter Henke -
Wayne Fritz -
Andy Connell -
We now have an off road route through the farms from Lady Grey to just outside Graaf Reinet. About 300kms of dirt. This section was one of the many highlights of our recent Tour.
It takes us through farm lands past game reserves, two track sections and some lovely sweeping bends on good dirt roads. I loved this section.
Roll up ladies and gents there is still space available.
Heini Nel - booked
Hi Geoff
Please add Stan if you have space for one more 
Booked Stan.
On your new GSA I imagine???????????
Will call for deposits shortly.
I'd like to join as well
E mail address please Iwan!!!
Booked and on the list Iwan.
Awaiting your e mail address.
Deposits have been called for.
There are still a few places available.
Payments are trickling in!!!!
Heini Nel has withdrawn.
Deposits are paid (thanks) and there are still a few places available.
Another 2 riders booked.
HI geoff,
please put me on the list. I will email you my details and could you forward the banking details for the deposit
Eugene
Gunter Henke is also joining us!!
Wayne Fritz from Atlantic Motorrad is our latest entry.
Russell Rathbone booked.
Andy Connell has taken the final place.
Tour is now full!!
This is going to be a blast! All my old and my new buddies will be there - can't wait!
The total group is currently as follows :
Geoff Russell (Guide)
John & Des Gillespie (Back up)
Hennie Botha
JJ Mouton
Geoff & Jane Edwards
Brent Sender
Bob Goode
John Finch
Herman Ebersohn
Graham Montgomery
Phillip Horstman
Gunter Henke
Stan van Rensburg
Bernie Wentzel
Charles Oertel
Wayne Fritz
Russell Rathbone
Andy Connell
Chris Dunn
21 people!!!
Starting to check out what we are going to be doing on the Eastern Cape tour in October. Looks like we will be visiting my childhood friend Gary Tonks at the Camdeboo Lodge on the way home.
Here is my Google Map - if you know any details about the route, feel free to adjust it. This is what Google calculated (probably tar all the way), and it leaves out the riding around we will be doing in the Southern Drakensberg.
View Eastern Cape Tour in a larger map
Pre trip get together takes place tonight.
Departure is this coming Saturday.
Excitement is setting in!!!!
All the best to you guys on this trip - I know it will be awesome.! May you have good weather, good riding and no trouble.
En se' groete aan die OosKaap!
Maak so vir jou GK.
The excitement is high...........Katberg & Devils Bellows en nog baie meer berg passe wag vir ons.
I can! Suddenly everything is becoming trivial and the world is focussing on 'nog twee slapies' until adventure time.
Travel safe all of you and look forward to the stories on your return.
Just bumped into Bob Goode, Geoff Edwards (the 2 pensioners) and Herman Ebersohn all are pumped up excited and ready to go.
Only 2 more sleeps!!!!
Yeee Haaaaaa!!!!
Like with any travel, I can only relax once I actually leave.
Once I shut down my engine at the start point at 06H30 and shake off the past weeks hassles.
But between now n then....
I still need to put a new knobbly on my front wheel just now,
Then pack my bags
buy some last minute 'stuff' for the trip.
Then take my bike to have it's party dress put on.
Then go to Janet and ask again for the right combination of swear words to synch my blue tooth radio coms
and exchange my F4 speakers 'cos the left one went dead again.
Then go buy my padkos, pack into zip-lok bags for each day, bury that in my clobber
Take my gear to Geoff's back up,
Then have a hair cut, pluck nose hairs, trim toe nails- ALL VITALLY IMPORTANT DETAILS you cannot afford to neglect.
And I have to work today as well.
And then tonight I SIMPLY HAVE TO pack the bike trip ready.
Then Service my angel, enough to last 8 days away....
so by tomorrow you can see why I will be exhausted, frazzled and only when I arrive at the jump-off point can I get into safari mode.
But hell am I looking forward to just switching off the mobile, powering up the camera and having 8 days of sheer biking bliss!
Oh yes, come hell or high water, my bike will not manage to start until I know who is going to win on Sunday.
I didn't say 'until 11H00' I said until it becomes more or less clear where our team is next week.
All the best to everyone on this tour!!
What a fantastic trip. Big thanks to you Geoff for your superb organisation and patience. Thanks to everyone else for the cameraderie, advise and helpfulness. Special thanks to John & Des for your hard work and always being there to pick up the pieces.
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