CRUISEY {GOURMET} ROUND the HARBOUR BIKE RIDE: 20/02/22
The weather is SO important to have an enjoyable cycling and for ferry crossing – we ‘managed’ it just right! [The day before was too wet, and day after unsafely windy]. This was an atypical TC outing, but nothing like variety!
14 bods descended into a cafe at Port Chalmers for either a late breakfast, morning tea, or early lunch. After being adequately replenished, we arrived at the chartered ferry for friendly owner-operator Rachel to load our 9 ebikes and 5 ‘real’bikes like a weight-lifter. We were on our way soon after 11.00, blessed with sunshine, sea-spay, views and a well researched commentary. After mooring and offloading at Portobello, and a b
rief look at the township, we headed South on the flat finished trail [apart from 100m], diving in and out of all the bays, while avoiding other cyclists and walkers.
Soon enough we arrived at Glenfalloch right on the dot of time, only to find our outside booked table for 12.30 had been written up on their front desk as 11.30. However we were quickly established at 2 indoor tables, with refreshments and delightful lunch food [slightly different from my typical TC lunches!!]
With happy smiles and tummies, we set off to round the bottom of the harbour, for what’s becoming our traditional group photo with ‘the teeth’ -someones idea of Oamaru stones sculptures. Then Northwards, through the industrial and wharf areas to the Stadium, and up the cycle path to St Leonards. Here the trail ends, but he last remaining section costing 5 million [!!] to be completed by the end of the year to Port Chalmers.
Graham and I sorted some interesting quiet back-roads about 3 years ago to follow, rather than the busy main road. The only issue is, that there is quite of lot of up and down hill work.
Fine for ebikes and fit real-bikers, but can prove a struggle otherwise. I took one person a horrible flatter route, while the rest arrived back at the wharf at a similar time.
The six tail-enders to leave
, decided that to complete the ‘gourmet’ requirements, and to have a debrief, the local pub would fit the bill -and it did!
Thanks to Colin [and Ross for the tailor] carrying some bikes, and the rest of the crew: Jenny, Graham, Mary, Jeff, Bev, Norma, Heather, Karyl, Trish, Catherine, John and Graham, for a real beaut day!
I’ve begun planning next year’s more extensive ride! Jane
The weather is SO important
