Day 3 Queenstown to Wanaka ..63km

As I write this we look over a beautiful Wanaka sunset reminsicing over a great day of cycling. We were up bright and early (I was the first to get my tyres pumped up!), downed breakfast and hit the road. About 25km on we turned off the main road and straight into the climbing-----the Crown Range road starts with 2 km of switchbacks followed by 5km of moderate rise. Then we climbed a further 5km to the summit in a ride I can only decsribe as the toughtest I have ever ridden in 30 odd years of cycling. This final gradient was such that we all suffered to some extent. You would struggle to find a rythym then as the gradient changed you were back to square one. There was nowhere to hide so it was a sense of real achievement for us all to get to the summit for a group photo. It was then a fast 20km downhill run to the Cardrona Hotel where we stopped for a well earned ale followed by coffee and complimentary chocolate brownies. Thanks to the Cardrona Pub for their spontaneous hospitality.

Today's weather was gloriously fine with a moderate breeze, coupled with awesome scenery to make it a special day. We're resting up for a big day tomorrow, 140km via Lake Hawea and Makarora to Haast on the West Coast. Thanks from the boys to all those for their kind donations. Thanks also to House of Travel for their assistance with our accommodation. I would recommend the Grand Mercure for a vacation in Wanaka--the place is very modern and stylish, great for families and the staff will do anything to help. Bye for now, Al. Up the Crown Range

Thirsty day after a hard climb

The Cadrona Pub

Top of the Crown Range

The Crown Range Awaits


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