We would have struggled to get better weather, and rode most of the day in 15-20 degrees, slightly overcast.
The Adelaide crew met at 0830 at the Caltex servo at Bolivar on the northern outskirts of Adelaide, and fueled up. We had Richo and Paul, Don and Kathy (1300PanMagic), Marty (TouriST) and myself and Chris. Don led us north, and we took the scenic route north through Freeling, Kapunda, Eudunda and on to the World's End Highway (don't you love the name) to Burra for a cuppa at the local bakery. From Burra we headed to Jamestown, Stone Hut and arrived at Melrose right on 12.30 where we were met by Alan and Heather. John from Kadina turned up on his BMW, so in total we had nine for lunch.
Lunch was great, some OzSTOC shop items changed hands, and we wandered the main street of the historic little Southern Flinders Ranges town. Melrose is a wonderful spot to holiday, with a lovely caravan park by the creek, walking and cycling trails, two pubs, and a choice of cafes. Sadly "Bluey Blunstones" cafe is now closed. It was an old Blacksmith's workshop, converted into a cafe and I've had many meals and coffees there, sitting by an open fire, and surrounded by all the equipment and tools from a past era.
I've attached the all important "Flag" photo, and a map showing where this scenic little town is located.
We left around 3.00pm for the ride home, and rode to Crystal Brook to refuel, and then headed down the highway, stopping at Port Wakefield for a cuppa and a break. Chris and I arrived home at around 7.00pm after a very scenic ride. Chris and I rode a round trip of 620km, which we figured was her longest day ever in the saddle, and the new Sargent pillion seat gets a definite "thumbs up".
