Guest author Karen and her husband Wayne recently rode the Encounter Bikeway as part of the BikeSA Mini Coast to Coast event:
Wayne and I decided to enter the BikeSA Coast to Coast for a second time. However, not being super-fit or even wanting to ride on roads, we opted for the Mini version which was along the Encounter Bikeway.
The Mini Coast to Coast was the ‘family’ ride. However, as the weather was cool and windy and there had been a few showers, there were only about twenty riders.
To the Bluff and Back
The Mini Coast to Coast started in Victor Harbor at Warland Reserve and initially headed south towards the Bluff along the shared path.
As we rode we passed others out for a walk on the shared path. After about 20 minutes we had covered the 5 kilometres and were at the turn around point. After a short stop for a drink and photo we turned around and headed back along the way we had come.
We didn’t push ourselves because we had done this route last year. We knew what was ahead in the second half of the ride to Port Elliot – not the flat easy ride of the first half.
Soon we arrived back at the start and the volunteer ride leader was waiting for the group to regroup before heading out on the second leg.
Victor Harbor to Boomer Beach
Soon we were off again on the second half of the Mini Coast to Coast.
As we were heading out, we saw another of the ‘Uncool Kids’ completing his ride. Des had ridden the 66 km Ride on the road from Meadows and was still looking quite fresh. Well Done Des!!
The Cockle Train
We followed the road along past the bowling club into a little cul-de-sac where we had to cross the railway line. Looking both ways, we walked across the railway line, only to be shocked by the whistle of the Cockle Train as we got to the other side. Alas I wasn’t quick enough getting my phone out and missed a picture opportunity.
A view of the coast and the railway line, but alas no train. We crossed the bridge where people were fishing and headed up the ‘killer hill’.
We remembered this from last year. It ran alongside the main road into Victor Harbour and we had walked most of it last year. I was very pleased that I managed to make it to the top, be it in ‘granny gear’. Wayne still had to walk some of the hill, but managed a lot further than last year. After a short break to catch our breath, it was onward and upwards.
The Bikeway was well signposted, but there were also red BikeSA arrows to help find our way. The ride leader had gone ahead with the better, faster riders, which didn’t bother us as we wanted to enjoy it at our pace. We found our way along quiet streets that had a great view of the coast and across parks on short bike paths, some up and some down, but mostly up.
Boomer Beach to Port Elliot
Finally we came to Boomer Beach, the turnaround point for our ride last year. I had already decided that I was going to do the full course but I can see why we stopped here last year. The view was incredible. I had to stop and walk out to the little viewing platform to take a look (and a photo).
It wasn’t long and we were in the outskirts of Port Elliot. We followed the red arrows and soon we were at the second turnaround point and ready to head back towards Victor Harbour, but why rush?
We stopped to refresh and refuel and enjoy a chat with other riders who were doing the same.
Port Elliot to Victor Harbor
Before starting our return journey on the Mini Coast to Coast, I had to take the obligatory photo to prove that we had made it. We were both feeling rather pleased with ourselves.
We found it easier on the way back and had plenty of time to enjoy the views. However there were still a few ups, but more downs, which we were pleased about.
On the Mini Coast to Coast we had cycled a total of 24.8 kilometres and climbed 145 metres. The Encounter Bikeway is such a pretty ride I am sure we will ride it again, maybe the section from Port Elliot to Goolwa!?!
Karen has also recently participated in the Melbourne Around the Bay event.
For a more recent ride on the Encounter Bikeway, read about Brian’s birthday ride. Another excellent South Australian trail is the Riesling Trail in the Clare Valley.
