The fact that we were back in Victoria seemed to inspire one M Murray to seriously consider hitting the road at 5.30a.m. ! Thankfully for Kev and self we were staying 2kms further away in a different caravan park so could't be swayed by such foolishness instead settling (to Marysia's anguish) on a much more civil departure time of 9.30a.m. (.. as boys we needed to look good on the road !)
We left Nelson on a lovely morning with Maysia soon way out in front competing for space on winding roads with semis and log trucks ! To give the log truck guys some credit they at least gave us fair warning of their approach and often a wide berth in passing but still the force of the passing trucks while riding on a limited road verge was enough to make you feel constantly uneasy !
After about 25kms we had our first serious climb on tour a 3-4km effort that put "granny" as well as our tender bums back into play The descent following though was brilliant as for the first time on our trip we had the full effects of a tailwind right behind us. Henleys squeals of glee were evident through the forested area even though he was a km in front of me !
We finally turned off the main Nelson - Portland road at the 50km mark taking what felt like a lane towards Portland Airport where we encountered Portlands version of the Ottways a series of steeply rolling hills that made their way down to Cape Bridewater. CB on arrival looked stunning with its lovely breaking waves, white sand and aqua coloured ocean but unfortunately came complete with squadrons of marauding march flies that descended upon us as soon as we tried to take lunch. Even the Steve Irwin of Fly Catching one Kevin Catchem Henley put up the white flag as the flies threatened to devour him whole and fly away with his carcass if he stayed still !
Leaving CB and the carnage behind, we headed this time into Portland a 15 km undulating ride with the days heat beginning to take effect. Passing through Portland we headed out of town to Henty Bay to our lovely caravan park setting with 102 kms showing after a fine days effort.
Having checked in our wary approach to our cabin was justified finding out that our guaranteed view of the Ocean was correct only if you stuck your head out through the torn flyscreen on the side windoww. With no air con, a stifling room, and a toilet almost directly attached to Kevs bed we decided to back track to the office to seek out accommodation more befitting our social staus! With the gardeners shed unavailable we settled instead for the next best thing (see pic)
Nearly 700 kms down and only 300 to go !
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