Swellendam to Robertson

November 14, 2025

We left Swellendam just after 8 to try and beat some of the heat. For once it was actually cool when we started and there was cloud cover for most of the morning making for nice riding conditions. Again we followed the mountain range west through more dairy country until we reached the fruit growing and wine region of the Robertson valley. We rode the last gravel section of the trip which made everyone more relaxed. It is amazing how riding that stuff is not only tough on the legs but a workout for your upper body too. After 55km we stopped at a large winery for a tasting and lunch in the lovely garden. We had just under 15km to ride after lunch to our accommodation for 2 nights. We thankfully have a day off the bike tomorrow because my butt needs a break from the sweaty chamois. There are activities planned but no cycling unless you really want to.

An official looking building in Swellendam as we left this morning

The dirt road that we dealt with today complete with the dust from a car going the other way. Fortunately we didn’t have to contend with too many cars or trucks

The group strung out. With me in the lead taking the photos and then George my German beer buddy who is on the other e-bike. Apparently we are being referred to as the “power dual” by the German group. I think it is funny.

A boarding kennel in English and Afrikaans

On this same property were some very cute donkeys or mules. Mules I think because of their markings. Mules are the offspring of a horse and a donkey. Karly was the mule whisperer getting to eat out of her hand.

A mule is bred from a male donkey and a female horse while a hinny is a bred from a male horse and female donkey. They have different physiology and temperament. I did not know this until now.

We thought these cows were all lined up to see us but I realized the farmer was coming with a tractor with hay.

Crossing the last bit of gravel onto tarmac, Yahoo!

They cover the orange grove to create better fruit for the export market. Expensive outlay but worth it in return

Pomegranate grove in bloom, never seen this before.

Mom and pop springbok with 2 youngsters.

One of the Swiss boys riding down a row of jacaranda trees as we approached the winery.

My lunch and wine tasting. I really only like one, the Pinotage.

I bought a bottle of ready to go Mimosas for $8.

My room up where the open door is, of course they put the old lady up the stairs.

The view of our accommodation from my balcony.

Today's ride: 71 km (44 miles)
Total: 254 km (158 miles)

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