We had excellent conditions for our final two days on the bike with little wind, a comfortable temperature and no rain. Averaging speeds of between 20-30kms per hour meant we could afford longer breaks, munching on goodies, kicking back on the grassy verges while learning interesting facts about Belgium. This is where our fabulous cycling companions, Bart and Griet hail from.
Did you know these things about Belgium?
- It is the Capital of the European Union.
- This small country has three official languages: German, French and Flemish with English being used at times as a common denominator.
- Belgium currently is in political turmoil and has not had a government for the last six months.
- This is where Belinda's favourite beer (Hoegaarden) and Roland's favourite ice cream (Haagen-Dazs) originates. Hmmm, maybe this should be the next place we visit?
The closer we got to Ushuaia, the greener the landscape became, with more lakes and rivers appearing and our old friend, The Andes. After another pleasant day of riding we descended for the last time and set our sights on Ushuaia nestled in between the Beagle Canal and mountains. Our day didn't end here as there is a little over 20kms more of road after Ushuaia, with 'Ruta 3' officially ending in Lapataia. So we grabbed some groceries in the bustling centre of Ushuaia and went in search of our final wild camping spot of the trip. Just before the entrance of the Tierra Del Fuego National Park (and Lapataia) was a building under construction that we got permission to sleep in which gave us protection from the elements.
Up at the crack of dawn (to miss the crowds and the entrance fee) we set off on the final ride of our trip. We had the road to ourselves as it wound through forest, past lakes and waking wildlife (we saw a Zorro!). It was a beautiful morning, very peaceful and intimate. As we rounded the last curve, Bahia Lapataia came into view and we had no choice but to come to a stop. With all our eyes wet we embraced in some serious bear hugging, still not believing we had finally made it after 17 months on the road and our minds flashing over special memories from the 16 different countries we had visited.
We simply had a lovely morning in the park and ended up staying at Lapataia for six hours! After multiple photos in front of the famous sign we enjoyed several quiet hours at the shore picnicking and dosing in the sun. Once the bus loads of tourists started to arrive it was time to pack up and have an obligatory ride in the BOB trailer before heading back to Ushuaia.
Patagonia is famous for it's 'cordero' (lamb) as well as Asados (BBQ's) so it seemed fitting to have a celebration meal with Bart and Griet at a 'Tenedor Libre' (all-you-can-eat) restaurant. Griet and Belinda watched the boys put back several platters filled with every kind of meat imaginable. They even had room for ice cream!
It made sense to spend our first night in 'Camping La Pista Del Andino' where again many other cyclists have either finished or started their trip. Fernando, the owner was another person that made our final days extra special. In his quiet way, we were presented with a bottle of champagne complete with a toast. This definitely doesn't come included and especially when he sees so many other cyclists through his campground we were quite taken aback.
Our final day of cycling was 100% PERFECT.
One resounding fact continues to penetrate our many crazy emotions and thoughts as we process and come to terms with our 17 month bicycling trip ending. Like a wedding, the day is primarily centered around the bride and groom. But without help, support and encouragement from family, friends, other cyclists, new friends made along the way and sponsors this adventure would not have been possible. You have made it amazing to the power of awesome. THANK YOU!
Because of YOU:
Our trip = (AMAZING) ^ AWESOME
More to come next blog including videos .............................