Left Hahndorf this morning in brilliant sunshine. Our first run was straight down the highway to Tailem Bend for petrol and brunch. Our original intention was to travel to Robe today, but we changed our mind to go to Mt Gambier instead. This meant travelling to Keith and then leaving the highway to travel through some of Australia's most beautiful wine producing areas around Coonawarra. The countryside is just spectacular with vineyards as far as the eye can see. We saw lots of water still lying around, a sign of the massive rainfalls experienced here a few days ago. After a straight run of 230km we stopped at Naracoorte for fuel and to restore some feeling in various parts of the body. Then on to the final 95km to Mt Gambier. Once again we used the Visitor Information Centre to find cheap accommodation in the city. They pointed us to Mac's Hotel right in the middle of the city. This beautiful old hotel was first licensed in 1864 and has been beautifully restored. At $65/night for a twin room it is hard to beat. Once we unpacked our gear, it was time for a beer or two on the upstairs verandah overlooking the city.
After our long ride it was very relaxing to have this beautiful verandah all to ourselves. It was also great to experience some warm weather for a change.
After a couple of pale ales it was time to head down to the beautiful old dining room for an excellent meal. All that was needed now was some great coffee, and so we walked into the city in search of a good cafe and hit the jackpot - a Royal Copenhagen icecream parlour that served great coffee. That's finished the night's activities off nicely. Time to return to the hotel, and prepare for tomorrow's short ride to Port Fairy.
Total Distance 410 km
Hooray for a nice sunshiny day. You definitely deserved one after the rain you've had.
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to feel the sun on your back.
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