Day 436 South Africa 12/01/2012, Plettenberg Bay - Knysna Backpackers, Knysna. 21.08miles/34.44km, 2hr12minutes, Av 9.4mph.

With only about 35km to go to the town of Knysna, we had a slow start this morning. There was no repeat of the previous night's party, so we woke feeling pretty good. It was certainly a very hot day though, which is not ideal cycling conditions.

Starting the cycling day by having to double back on ourselves, because of an inaccurate map, wasn't the most auspicious of starts. The whole town being built on a steep hill didn't help either, especially considering the heat. We soon got ourselves back on track and headed out of Plett and onto the main road.

Over the last few weeks we have struggled to find a shop or anywhere to have a drink along the road. So today, it came as a bit of a surprise when the road seemed almost wall to wall B&Bs, craft shops and farm stalls. We are obviously now fully on the 'Garden Route' to Cape Town.

Having stopped for a drink at very friendly staffed café, we set off again and just after 12pm arrived outside Knysna Backpackers. Set in an old Victorian era house, it is a pretty grand looking backpackers. We will be spending a couple of nights here, this time in a room, which will be nice after the tent!

Before heading out to have a look round the town, I had to fix Debs saddle which for some reason sprung apart. What looked to be an easy fix, turned into a bit of a pain until a flash of inspiration had it all put back together. I have no idea what she keeps doing to her gear, but I will be keeping a closer eye from now on! At least I just lose things, rather than break them!

Not wanting to spend too much time out in the heat, we only had a short look round the shops. Heading down to the waterfront will have to wait until tomorrow. What we saw of the town though looks quite nice. It is certainly an older more Victorian looking town than we have seen for a while.

While I returned to the hostel with the shopping, Debs had a nice massage and is now feeling a little better. We will be having dinner here tonight and a few glasses of wine should round off the day. Sightseeing tomorrow!