14/10/09 continued... OUDTSHOORN

Now if you've been paying attention you'll know that we were picked up by Gavin, who took us on a scenic ride inland to Oudtshoorn for our stay at Backpackers Paradise. I fell in love with Oudtshoorn instantly. Its a cool town laid out on a grid and filled in with an awesome South African vibe.

After arriving we made the most of our first opportunity to use a washing machine and settled in to our huge room! We also had a late evening walk to the local shop (somehow surviving the mean streets!) before putting our names down for a tour the next day and then going to bed.

15/10/09

We were up bright and early today for a tour of the surrounding area which involved caving, ostriches and biking! After picking out suitable bikes (to prevent problems seen previously) we set off with Gavin to the Cango Caves. The caves were incredible, and HUGE!!! We travelled 600metres underground and saw massive stalactites and stalagmites!

We were then picked up again by Gavin and driven to the excellent Cango Ostrich Farm. After a quick history lesson the fun began. We were taken out to meet Betsy (ostrich) and Kieron was the first to volunteer for a hug from Betsy (!) the others obviously relieved that someone else went before them and survived! Next up everyone was offered a kiss from Betsy. A dried grass pellet was to be placed between the lips and then retrieved by Betsy! Kieron was 1 of only 2 to risk this kiss! We were then both given the opportunity to hold a baby (2 week old) ostrich in the palm of our hands. Very Cute!!! A walk past a breeding pair led us to the Racecourse! Roadrunner was saddled up and Kieron pushed uncerimoniously on to his back. The bag over Roadrunners head was whipped off and they were away, the fastest thing on 2 legs racing full pelt with Kieron on his back for 5 seconds of terror!!! (pictures to follow). After a quick massage courtesy of 3 hungry Ostriches the tour was over and we lef the farm to saddle up for part 3 of todays adventure.

A warm up ride down to some beautiful Tea Rooms for lunch was required first. After this pitstop we set off on a spectacular 14km bike ride through the semi-desert region back to Oudtshoorn and our hostel. 2 stops were all that was required, along with a few high 5's from some local children to help us complete this gruelling ride!

After such a hard day we treated ourselves to some cold drinks by the pool and an afternoon nap before going out for a meal at the Swiss Bistro, where I had a delicious rump steak and Kieron enjoyed an Ostrich Burger!

A well earned sleep followed.

16/10/09

A lazy stroll around Oudtshoorn town centre was followed by cards at the poolside as we waited for Gavin to take us back to George in order to meet the Baz Bus and travel on to Knysna.

Everything went on time and to plan and we enjoyed a nice drive and a Mcdonalds before embarking on the next leg of our journey to Knysna.