To Ladismith

December 13, 2025

The Huis River Pass, at the second crossing of the river.

Mountain View self catering chalets, my home in Ladismith.

Immediately after leaving Calitzdorp, the R62 began to rise into the hills ahead, asi had expected. Today was always going to be granny ring, climbing gear ratio day. I have said before and will say again, I find climbing exhilarating. The views are breathtaking, the pace is slow, and the sensation of gaining altitude using one's own steam is rewarding. All that's required is discipline and time.

The Huis River Pass was today's big climb. A 16km stretch at an average gradient of 7%. It wasn't a particularly hard climb but pacing it right was crucial. What remained of the ride after the climb was constant undulation, which is always an energy sapper. Heavy rain last night ensured the temperature hovered below 27 degrees Celsius, and cloud cover helped maintain cool conditions. I enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and rock formations. The Huis river was dry, as have been all the rivers I have crossed in South Africa except the Vaal and Orange. The Huis River pass was disappointing, perhaps because of the lack of water flowing, but the ride up on either side was spectacular.

Ladismith is a quiet, mainly residential, town in the Klein Karoo. Life here seems to revolve around the Spar Supermarket which is a hive of activity. Wide streets, lined with bougainvillea, crisscross the town. Children play football in shady alleyways, and bored locals hang out outside the gabled Town Hall drinking beer and smoking cannabis. I took a stroll around town and actually like the laid back vibe I experienced. Houses seemed less security conscious, fences and gates being shorter and not electric, which made me think crime was less frequent in this area. As usual, people made eye contact, smiled and said hello at every opportunity.

My home for the night would be the Mountain View self catering chalets, which lived up to its name in spectacular fashion. While reading my book in the afternoon after a light lunch, I had a visitor - a small greenish snake, who meandered its way across my verandah having passed right under my chair! Ladismith is blessed with cooler weather even in the hottest months, so the evening was cool and pleasant enough to enjoy without being pestered by mosquitos.

Today's ride: 52 km (32 miles)
Total: 2,427 km (1,507 miles)

Rate this entry's writing	Heart	1
Comment on this entry	Comment	0