A rainy day 2 for me
I’m currently making small vlogs during the road trip — you can watch them on my Instagram @quirijnwaaijenberg. I’m learning the art of shameless self-promotion, let me know if I’m doing it right, lol.
Friday morning started later than I hoped. I woke up at 7:45 and drove to breakfast around 8:15. Had a nice drive to Apollo Bay — this morning there was a huge swell, nice rolling waves, and already a lot of surfers in the water. I almost watched that more than the road... kidding, of course.
I had a big breakfast with muesli, a croissant, and a flat white. After that, I checked Komoot to see where I could go for my long ride and found a bike park a bit more into the mountains but still close by. The town was called Forrest — crazy, right?
When I arrived, it had just started raining. I really thought about not getting out of the car, but I checked the radar and saw it would only get worse. So, I finally stepped out, assembled my bike, packed food, drinks, and the rest... almost forgot the GoPro, oh well.
I was on my way to do a 60 km bike loop. Luckily, the rain stopped shortly after I started and didn’t come back. It was a really nice, mostly singletrack loop with some tough climbs — I even had to walk once because of slippery mud.
Finished the loop in 3 hours and 45 minutes, then cleaned my bike at the nicest little bike shop you can imagine.
After that, I packed everything, cleaned myself up as best as I could with just a towel, and went into town for a big burger at the only restaurant there.
Later, I decided to drive a bit further into the mountains to Colac, which is next to a big lake. I had hoped to swim at the local aquatic centre, but unfortunately, it was closed because of the Anzac Day holiday — it had closed at 4 PM and I arrived at 4:50. Not my fault, Google Maps didn’t say anything about it!
I sulked a bit but then headed to my accommodation for the night.
I'm currently here planning for tomorrow — but you'll have to hear about Saturday’s adventures after I live them.
Hope you found today’s story interesting! I would definitely recommend visiting Forrest if you’re ever in Australia.
Until tomorrow — Quirijn out.
Little side note: Anzac Day is the annual official day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand for all citizens who have participated in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. The day of remembrance takes place every year on April 25, marking the anniversary of the landing of the Anzacs during the Gallipoli campaign in the First World War.
