We have been through the picturesque Hunter Valley numerous times, so this time we decided to carry on to Moonan Flat, at the foot of Barrington Tops state forest, to add a more scenic twist to the ride, with Graham as our guide.
Day 1: Map (334 km travelled)
Jalal, Grant and Mop, Mick and Belinda met us in Smithfield then we all carried on to the Pie in the Sky in Cowan, for coffee, where we met with Graham.
On our way to Wollombi, we stop to check out this culvert, part of the old convict trail.
Let's not forget Graham
Smile for the camera big fella.
Built by the convicts, it still stands quite strong.
There are two of these along the way and well worth stopping for a quick look around.
Eventually we arrive in Wollombi for a break at the pub.
The pub is loaded with character with it's bush furniture.
It's also home of Dr Jurd's Jungle Juice, best described as a strong Port. I couldn't help myself and bought a bottle.
This is what mad English men do when it gets hot and humid, pull their pants down of course.
We were met with Mick and Christina here, who carried on with us but unfortunately were met with a minor misfortune and did not continue all the way. Both are ok and being experienced adventure riders, took it all in there stride.
Soon after riding out of Singleton, we began passing through terrific pasture on about 20km of unsealed road.
This old moss covered sign says it all.
Graham led the way across several water courses and beautiful pasture until we arrived at this terrific spot with views across the valley, where we stopped for lunch.
A great example of the track we were riding on.
There he is with his pants down again and seems to be struggling with something.
These cattle grids appeared all along the track to keep the various stock in there paddocks.
The views across the valley were spectacular.
Thirsty work this. Even with your pants down.
Coming out of the dirt and on to tarmac, we arrive at the Linga Longa Hotel in Gundy.
Another great Aussie pub in a quiet country town.
After cool drink, we continue on to the tiny town of Moonan Flat.
This is the Victoria Hotel where we spent the night. Here, Lance met up with us after leaving home later, but spending the night and riding home with Jalal the next morning.
This sign gives an indication of the distance to Goucester, where we would be travelling on unsealed road the next morning.
Behind the pub is this suspension bridge crossing the Hunter River.
I took a walk across it and quickly remembered how bouncy these things are.
That's the car bridge running along side.
The bikes parked up in the rear yard of the pub.
Typical Aussie bush decorations.
The pub had a pool out the back that we took advantage of. Even if it was filled with water from the river.
The bar full of character as are so many country pubs.
There is a restaurant on site that served excellent meals that we enjoyed, with some drinks, to end the night after a big day.
Day 2: Map (448 km travelled)
The next morning, we set off at 8:00 am, but first a visit to Bells Bridge, crossing the Hunter River.
The original bridge still stands but no longer in use.
We then set off for a long ride over the Barrington Tops National Park on unsealed road.
Even more fantastic country side.
The boys checking how far to go or where the hell we were.
We crossed several gates and grids until we arrived in the park.
Oh God, still 78km to go !!!
Further on, we got quite high and rode in to fog.
The temperature dropped and became quite chilly.
Graham rises from the mist.
Obviously stays quite wet up there, judging by the moss growing on the trees.
Heading down the tops, Grant and Kelly discover they have a flat front tyre.
Lucky for us, we had our $2.99 puncture kit in the top box and repaired the flat with a rubber plug. Winner!
When we arrived on tar road, we stopped so that Grant could put a bit more air in the tyre, which not only held out, but got them home all the way to Wollongong safely and without incident.
The end of the dirt road, which I was glad to see behind me. Although the scenery was stunning, the track proved to be a challenge with its many gravel patches and mud sections.
My boots ended needing washing with a pressure cleaner.
The roadies cafe in Gloucester for lunch.
This was a welcome break. We left Moonan Flat at 8:00am and arrived for lunch at 1:00pm. Four hours to ride less than 100km. although we did stop several times and also repaired the flat tyre.
The second day was a very big day and very tiring for all involved. Cathy and I arrived home just before 7:00pm, dirty and exhausted but it was fun to say the least. Everyone had a great time, as always, and I'd like to thank Graham for his patience guiding the group over the tops and showing us the Australia most people miss out on enjoying.
