Directory

Don’t do this route on your own. Go in a group or, better still, if you’re doing it on an adventure bike, join Andy on the next adventure – it’s safer and much more fun! Tours from R5 999 pp DBB. Keep an eye on the website for dates. 1 Mountain View Country Inn, Lady Grey. Expect warm hospitality, classic decor and good food. From R510 pp sharing B&B. 082-962-1999 2 Lady Grey Dam. Take a small detour at the start of Joubert’s Pass to see the 25-metre-high dam wall. You can even take the stairs to the top if you’re that way inclined. Entrance is free. 3 Mountain Shadows Hotel, Elliot. Set at the top of Barkly Pass, the views from this hotel are spectacular. If you can look past the weird taxidermy, you’ll find an old-world stay with lots of character, a stately bar and comfortable beds. From R730 pp DB&B. 045-931-2233 4 The Cock and the Cat, Ugie. This fine surprise is tucked away in a modest house on the town’s main road. Don’t expect snappy service, but the toasted sandwiches (from R23) are worth the wait. 082-446-1980 5 Tenahead Mountain Lodge. This splendid stone lodge does an à la carte menu from 12pm to 2.30pm (burgers from R85). If you’re not in time for that, grab a coffee and a rusk (R20). 045-971-8901 6 Tiffindell Ski Resort. There’s much more to this spot than snow and skiing. Summer activities include grass skiing, mountain biking and wildflower tours (go early February for the best blooms). Rooms are cosy with great views. Accommodation may be scarce during ski season (1 June to 31 August). Chalets from R395 pp sharing. 011-781-2620 7 Rhodes River Park. This is a delightful spot to stop and relax. Sit on the deck or throw a frisbee. There’s a market here in December. Entrance free. 045-971-9003 8 Reedsdell Country Guest Farm, Wartrail. With great hospitality, good country fare (Kath Isted’s lasagne is a knockout) and genuine friendliness, this gorgeous farmstay was easily the best overnight stop on the trip. From R470 pp sharing B&B. 045-974-9900