Well, I made it. Clare, that it is. Quite a ride. While the sub-title for the tour was the Tattler-Riesling Bike Trail Tour, the Tattler Trail (from Riverton to Auburn) doesnt exist at the moment. Its being upgraded and as such is closed to the public. Oh, well! The Riesling Trail is another story. Not quite like what I expected and they never tell you that it is mainly uphill all the way from Auburn to Clare. Built over the old railway line it follows a steam trains logic: straight, gradual grades (but still tiring after 20kms) and predictable in its meander. Made of packed earth and clay with a fine gravel surface, it is slower going than bitumen but bike-friendly - road bikes wouldnt be too happy. Only passed only cyclist on the way up yesterday afternoon and only 3 this morning as I rode the final leg up to Barinia (10kms North of Clare). Plenty of wineries to detour to on your way through, but if you visited even three to sample the wares, I doubt youd ever finish the trail (or be able to!). Certainly worth the effort, but if you were going to do it one way Id start in Clare (or Barinia for the full Monty) and pedal to Auburn. Ill get to do that tomorrow. For the record, Gawler to Riverton is OK. Plenty of wide shoulder and no really steep climbing. Again I get the impression that there is more up-hill riding going South to North than vice-versa. Speeding cars and trucks can be unnerving, but they were all pretty considerate. R&R today in Clare. A spot of casual touring, feet up with the Tiser and a glass of the finest riesling and just the kookaburras and magpies for company. Cheers!
Posted on: Sat, 29 Mar 2014 00:27:25 +0000