September 2006
Selfguided Tour Karoo, West Coast and Cedarberg

What can we say….. our friends & family called us crazy: „You want to spend your honeymoon on motorcycles rather than on a sandy beach????“
Guess what, it was the best decision we could’ve made! Jürgen’s route planning for the two of us was simply ingenious, the choice of accommodation (we MUST mention Charles and his lovely house in Prince Albert!!!), the suggestions for scenic routes and ways to avoid the main roads – simply fantastic. Add to that the hospitality we found everywhere and the friendliness towards bikers (which you don’t always get in Europe), amazing! Finally of course the story about Dave losing his wedding ring because he was being sick with a stomach bug and lost so much weight that the ring dropped off his finger and – because it was found by a room maid and returned to the landlord – finally made its long way to be reunited with the panicking groom in Cape Town before we flew back to old Blighty. The bikes (F650 Dakars) were our first choice and we loved riding them. So much that we’re now considering swapping our Japanese bikes at home for them (once the wallets permit us to do so).
We’ve definitely lost our hearts to South Africa, and we’ll be back (once we get a chance in our jobs to get more than 2 weeks off!!)
Anyone not sure whether to go for this kind of trip – for whatever reason – don’t hesitate, it is actually feasible even for those who are not sooooo experienced riding on unsurfaced roads. Just take it easy and take in the beautiful countryside. (and don’t forget the sundowner drinks and to imbibe on the lovely SA wines….)
Dave & Sabine
England