Jeli to Dabong: no success at Gunung Stong state park :(

Monday January 29, 2018, 40 miles (65 km) - Total so far: 3,409 miles

(5,487 km)

Today's ride was very pleasant indeed. Highway 66 is pretty quiet, and very scenic with mountain views and bridges across picturesque rivers. The surface is still pretty rubbish though!

We were hoping to camp at Gunung Stong state park, and also to visit the waterfall. We stopped for some lunch in Jelawang, then headed to the park...we stayed straight after the sign which means a VERY STEEP hill, but great views of the waterfall. If you turn right, it's a lot flatter!

On arriving at the park, we did notice a 'sorry we are closed' sign but the gate was open, so we persevered. Hmm, no one to take money at the entrance...restaurant closed.... Eventually we found a couple of people but things were very unclear due to the language barrier. They eventually tried to give us the number of another resort, which we interpreted as the accommodation being closed. To be honest, we weren't that disappointed as there was nowhere obvious to camp, there was rubbish everywhere and the loos / showers were in a state of disrepair. Shame not to get closer to the waterfall though.

Plan B was to cycle a further 7km into Dabong, to stay at the lovely Rose House. The owners are so kind - tea and toast is offered when you arrive. The room is fantastic, more like a mini-suite (with sofa, small kitchen area with kettle and sink) and sofa. Very comfy, and 80RM! Cold shower, but who cares in this heat! We tried to find out what the deal is with the park...and we think you have to go with a guide. Not sure if this is a temporary arrangement - but we'd recommend staying at Rose House anyway!

Will add photos from the last few days if we ever have wifi again.....