21.12.2015 – 30.12.2015
The west coast is rich of spectacular natural highlights along a scenic route and famous for its unpredictable weather conditions. As here on a long stretch the feet of the mountains (and a few decades ago even the Fox Glacier) are kissing the ocean it is raining a lot and the air is often foggy. Due to the humidity all kinds of tropical green is flourishing on a thin line in between mountains and water. Grotesque volcanic formations are dropped all along the shore completing the dramatic scenery. Even though there is just one small road available drivers, usually tourists with campervans, are driving relaxed and carefully. For the few exceptions we installed a buckle of flowers on a long stick as a distance holder which worked out fine. It’s truly a paradise to pedal in if you are lucky with the weather. We were. Obviously we started to meet more and more other cycling tourists as well.
We visited all of the touristic highlights: Pancake rocks, Fox Glacier, Knights Point, Bruce Bay and Greymouth. But our real highlights were the West Coast Wilderness Trail, the lovely Rapahoe Motorcamp and the first Hectors dolphins we discovered at Ship Creek. As well we got to experience the famous sandflies that made us dance like maniacs while watching at the sea. Apparently god invented them to keep paradise free of settlers. Very effective idea indeed.
There is not much more to say. Just look and dream!
PARIS2BERLIN 