Lake Fundudzi Weekend.

After a good breakfast at Roxy’s in Bronkhorstspruit, last Saturday morning, the fourteen of us headed off to explore Venda. The weather was great and the scenic route; albeit a bit of a long way round, proved to be both scenic and a little demanding, as the area had a lot of thick sand and rutted roads to offer.

On the way to Louis Trichardt/Makhado.

Rustic accommodation at Camp Africa.

Upon arrival at our abode in the mountains; above Louis Trichardt, most of us headed straight for the pub without even thinking of unpacking the bikes. It had been a long day with seven hours spent in the saddle, this can create quite a vehement desire for liquid refreshment.

For supper Dave had literally “cooked his goose” for us, with rice, gravy, veggies etc. Copious amounts of beer flowed that evening with the occasional shooter and red wine for the more eloquent amongst us.

Next morning at sparrows we biked through the Soutpansberg to get to our breakfast venue; the Ultimate Guest House in Bluegumspoort.

On route we stopped for a break at Hangklip where some of the bikers decided to do a hike, most of them were sweating and out of breath by the time they returned to the bikes.  

Upon arrival at the B and B we enjoyed either a full English or continental, coffee and fruit juice’s. Most of us settled for both and a take away lunch pack for later in the day, as we would not find another civilised place to eat till supper time that evening.

On the way to breakfast, Hangklip Picnic Site.

Roads less travelled.

After breakfast we moved on toward Lake Fundudzi, unfortunately the route did entail a section of tar as there is no dirt alternative, but once off the tar it became dual sport heaven; or hell. Rutted washed away roads, steep inclines and soft sandy patches lurking around every corner. I had recce’d this route in December and it was not nearly as treacherous back then. A couple of bikes were dropped; including mine, fortunately without any serious injury.

Taking a break at Lake Fundudzi.

Exit Lake Fundudzi.

Lake Fundudzi.

The last kilo or so to the lake was really horrendous, “only for the brave” as Hardy put it, but we all made it and I have to take my hat off to those who  did so with pillions.

From the lake we back tracked and then turned off toward The Holy Forest. A protected indigenous forest and when one sees it, you understand why it is called “Holy”.

The Holy Forest.

Next stop was the Tshirovah Water Fall, here the lunch packs were eagerly consumed as it was at this stage already past two o clock. From Tshirovah we moved on with one more stop at the Tate Vondo view point. A truly amazing place this country of ours; adventure riders paradise.

Tate Vondo.

After a short break for a couple of photo’s we were camp ward bound, via the HF Verwoerd tunnel and back through Bluegumspoort, over the mountain through forestry roads and back to camp. At camp, Dave had a fire going and soon there was the all too familiar “Braaivleis” smell hanging in the air.

The conversations that evening ranged from spills to thrills from the days events, and the fact that the tour guide got lost. Sorry chaps, it will probably  happen again. The evening ended much earlier, for most of us, as we were pretty worn out from the days riding.

Monday dawned on us and it was time to head for home. Having said our goodbyes and farewell’s we split up into two groups, those in a hurry to get home and those who lusted for more dirt. At Ben Lavin Nature Reserve the dirt started, via Krooks Corner, Mooketsi, Dawiesville, Ramatoelaskloof, Olyfberg and a lunch stop at Haenertsburg. A very scenic route indeed.

Somewhere near Krooks Corner.

From Haenertsburg the route that lay ahead of us was mainly tar, except for a 60 km dirt shortcut from Moloto Road to Bronkhorstspruit. If there had been more dirt we would definitely only have arrived home well after dark. For me it was a ten hour trip to get home, but well worth it.

Dawiesville.

All round I know that everyone had fun, and some experienced some first hand dirt roading. Thanks to all of you who managed to join us on this trip and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Best Regards.

Michael.

082 897 0220

michael.steyn@hotmail.com

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