So, we embarked on this brave (some might say slightly bonkers) mission from PE to Cape Town for the weekend. The mission: cram in some quality time with family and friends, and sneak in some cycling because why not turn an 8-hour car ride into an epic adventure on wheels?

We left PE at the crack of dawn (seriously, the sun was barely awake) to make time for a pit stop at Montagu. The plan was to stretch our legs and cycle a trail. We arrived fashionably late, right at noon—the perfect hour when only mad dogs and Englishmen venture out into the sun.

As we channeled our inner superheroes, changing into our cycling gear at the roadside (let’s just say it was an acrobatic feat worthy of Cirque du Soleil), we mounted our trusty steeds and rode into the woods.

The trail started off warmish, then decided to turn up the heat to ‘sauna-on-wheels’ level.

Midway, we stumbled upon the trail elves, or rather, the local guys doing trail maintenance. After some quick banter—and hoping for a magic shortcut—we continued, ignorant of the upcoming rock festival under our tires. We soldiered on until we hit the infamous Little Red Riding Hood loop. Spoiler: it’s no fairytale! More like a plot twist that left us huffing, puffing, and dreaming of lunch.

Now exhausted, we longed for a cold drink in an air-conditioned paradise. The last cozy stretch teased us with an easy path, but the sun was relentless, so we pulled the plug on the trail. The conclusion? A lovely track, but a winter endeavor for sure.

Sweaty and triumphant, we headed to Blu Vines, where we swapped cycling gear for something resembling dignity. The restaurant was a sight for sore eyes, with a veranda offering views that could make even the most seasoned Instagrammer swoon. Inside, it had character spilling out of every nook and cranny.

In conclusion, Montagu, you’ve got our future visits, minus the scorching heat!