Cycling around Germany from 14th. June to 26th. July. 2009
|
Why a tour all round Germany with an e-bike and a normal bike? Because I want to find out
the pros and cons of an e-bike. A tour around Germany offers mountains, hills and plains over about 4000 kilometres. There are enough Campgrounds around to charge the battery. I have usually charged the battery in the sanitary, sometimes at the reception. The problem with the reception is that opening times in the morning are usually too late for us. I connected the battery on the heater or sink with a bicycle lock, to be sure that the battery will still be there in the morning. In Switzerland, it is possible to rent a battery for a week or a month. A battery is expensive (about Swiss Fr. 1000 or € 700). It is a good solution if you need it only during the holidays. The expense of charging is about 5-10 euro cents. That means the costs for the entire tour around Germany are € 2.15 to € 4.30. Now to the function of an e-bike: The pressure on the pedals is measured electronically. I can determine how much support I would like to receive. There are four possibilities. With the engine off, you cycle like any other bike, with support of 50%, 100% or 150% of your own muscle strength. Rika usually cycles with 50%, in headwinds and hilly terrain 100%, in steep gradients 150%. |
Bremgarten - Schluchsee.
Bremgarten - Schluchsee.
Day 1 Sunday, 14th. June 2009
Kilometres: --------------- 83.43
Altitude:.-------------------- 997
Average. ------------------- 14.4
Temp: --------------------- 29 ºc
Time: ---------------------- 5:46
Bremgarten - Brugg - Villigen - Leuggern - Waldshut - Uehlinger - Grafenhausen - Schluchsee.
Bridge over the Rhine River to Waldshut, our starting point. |
Brewery in Rothaus |
Camping in Schluchsee |
The weather can't be better for us to start our journey. Rika (my sister) bought an e-bike,
so we want to test it. I hope that after 4000 kilometres ride, I will get to know the pros and cons of electrically
assisted bicycles.
In the morning we cycle to Waldshut along the Rhine, our starting point for our trip around Germany. We cycle on
quiet roads, which have few more hills than the main street.
I take a photo of the bridge over the Rhine in Waldshut and hope to be back here in 6-7 beautiful and exciting
weeks.
From Waldshut to Schluchsee we have to climb approximately 600 meters. As long as the ground is flat, I can keep
up with the e-bike but if it gets steep, I cannot keep the pace. We decide that both of us cycle our own speed.
If Rika arrives at the top of a hill, she will have to wait until I reach the top of the mountain. Until now it
was vice versa.
Schluchsee - Schuttern (South-East of Offenburg)
Day 2 Monday, 15th. June 2009
Kilometres: 116.69-total 200.12
Altitude: ------219--total --1216
Average:----------------------20.3
Temp: --------------- 19 º - 22 ºc
Time: 5:44 --------- total -11:30
Schluchsee - Titisee - Höllental - Freiburg - Emmendingen - Herboldsheim - Lahr - Friesenheim - Schutter.
Town hall in Kippenheim |
City gate in Freiburg |
Overnight stay in Schuttern |
It was foreseeable that it would be raining last night because it was very warm and humid
yesterday afternoon.
After the first few miles it starts to rain again and it keeps on all morning long.
We cycle along Titisee and through the Höllental-Valley, unfortunately the damp weather ruins the mood somewhat
and even Freiburg doesn't look as lovely as it really is.
From Titisee (950m.) to Freiburg (390m.) we get fast forward.
In the afternoon the sun comes out and we decide to pitch our tent in Shutter.
We didn't even start to pitch the tents when the first drops start falling from the sky. Fortunately, the campsite
manager offers us a room for the night.
Schuttern - Zinswiller (France)
Day 3 Tuesday, 16th. June 2009
Kilometres: 111.62 total 311.74
Altitude: -------184 total --1390
Average: ---------------------17.2
Temp: -----------------------27 ºc
Time: 6:28 ----------total -17:58
Schutten - Kehl - Rheinau - Herrlisheim - Haguenau - Merzwiller - Zinswiller.
The Rhine at Kehl |
The river Kinzig flows here in Kehl into the Rhine. |
Initially a bit cloudy but then the summer begins.
From Kehl we cycle on a dyke on the German side of the Rhine.
While we enjoy a wonderful meal in Rheinau we charge the battery. It takes about an hour and lasts for another
25 kilometres.
We leave Baden-Württenberg and cross the border to France.
At Haguenau, a somewhat larger town, we cycle on a road, which circumnavigate the town and we soon find the N62
which leads us to the campsite in Zinswiller.
Gravel for Switzerland? |
The city gate of Haguenau |
The battery is charged in the tent |
Zinswiller - Saarlouis.
Day 4 Wednesday, 17th. June 2009
Kilometres: 105.34 total --- 417.08
altitude: --------516 total------1906
Average: ------------------------ 18.1
Temp: -------------------------- 29 ºc
Time: 5:49---------- total---- 23: 47
Zinswiller - Bärental - Mouterhouse - Rohrbach - Sarreguemines - Saarbrücken - Saarlouis.
Mouterhouse, many lakes along the road. |
If people allows nature. |
The river Saar |
There is almost no traffic on the D36 from Zinswiller to Rohrbach. Gradually it is going
up to Mouterhouse then the slope looks like a small pass. We cycle this route along many small lakes where local
people pursue their hobby,fishing.
No clouds in the sky, it is fun to cycle this way.
Via Sarreguemines, a town at the border, we come back to Germany and follow the river Saar. Now we enter the 2nd
State of Germany "Saarland". We meet a gentleman Mr. Köstner, who accompanies us for a few miles
and we get many tips and hints from this region.
Old bridge in Saarbrücken |
Break for a drink |
Beautiful bike path along the Saar |
The Flyer and Koga-Miyata |
Modern Bridge |
I stand next to it due to show the size |
Saarlouis - Konz.
Day 5 Thursday, 18th June 2009
Kilometre: 74.96 -- total 492.04
Altitude: -----106 -- total-- 2012
Average: --------------------- 17.6
Temp. ----------------------- 22 ºc
Time 4: 15---------total ---28:02
Saarlouis - Merzig - Saarburg - Konz
Along the Saar |
through little villages |
and outside |
The tent is wet from the dew but fortunately the sun is already shining in the morning.
We cycle along the river Saar, sometimes on the right side sometimes on the left.
In the afternoon clouds appear in the sky, therefore, we have to decide whether we rent a room or pitch the tent.
Since the weather forecast is not promising we decide for a room which belongs to the campsite. We can use the
washer and dryer, to travel on with fresh clothes tomorrow.
During the day, we have eaten from the leftovers in our bags so we try in the camping's restaurant a "German"
hot meal. German meals mean huge portions. We are very hungry after such a strenuous cycling day and manage the
German meal.
From experience I know the first few days I'm thirsty but after a few days my hunger grows too.
Mining |
Little chapple in the forrest |
Sluice gate |
Saarburg an der Saar |
Camping in Konz |
Konz - Waxweiler (South-Eifel)
Day 6 Friday, 19th June 2009
Kilometre: 77.13 total 569.17
Altitude: ---- 820 total --2832
Average: -------------------14.7
Temp: -------------15 º - 22 ºc
Time: 5:13 -------total -33:15
Konz - Wasserbillig - Echternach - Irrel - Prumzurlay - Oberweis - Altscheid - Waxweiler.
From left the Saar flows into the Mosel |
The President of the bike club gives us a few tips for this area |
Wasserbillig (Luxemburg) |
The Sauer (Luxemburg-Germany) |
Over this old bridge in Echternach we come back to Germany |
As we slept over in a room, packing is quick this morning.
We cross the Moselle River and cycle up to the little village Wasserbillig (Luxembourg).
The President of a cycle club wants to know where we come from and where we are going. We get tips how to go the
next 20 kilometres.
Following the river "the sour", which is the border between Germany and Luxembourg, we cycle up to Echternach.
A couple from Rur-Eifel recommends cycle up the river Pruem, because it is the prettier route.
They are right, almost no traffic and very beautiful. But it is constant up and down, rarely flat. The slopes are
between 8% to 10%. (Days height 820m.)
On the last mile of our daytrip the front gear cable breaks and it is Friday evening. I hope I can find a bike
shop tomorrow to replace the cable the same day.
An old mill at the river Prüm |
River Prüm |
|
I count 30 Motorbikes |
Day 7 Saturday, 20th. June 2009
Kilometre: ---48.32 total 617.49
Altitude: --------406 total --3238
Average: ----------------------14.5
Temperature: --------11 º - 18 ºc
Time: 3:19 ---------- total -36:34
Waxweiler - Pruem - Olzheim - Reuth - Stadtkyll.
Stadtkyll; Church and guild - tree |
Here in Waxweiler there is only one bicycle rental. The girl at the reception says that
in the next village is a bicycle mechanic, which heaves a sigh of relief. I cycle to the next village in the third
smallest gear and find out that the bike shop is closed since 2 months. The next opportunity is in Prüm, a
district town, where chances will be higher. A beautiful bike shop is open but unfortunately only a salesperson
is present. I've never done it before but there is no other choice than to try it by myself, however it is worth
an attempt. At the end of many trials I have a new cable, but it doesn't work. Today, Saturday and Sunday I have
to cycle in the three smallest gears. The best thing I can do is to see it from the positive side. Same parts of
this area are very steep. This is why I am glad that I can cycle in the three smallest gears to continue.
We manage to arrive the beautiful village Stadtkyll.
Every 2nd car at the camping has a Dutch number, a sign that the Dutch boarder is not far away.
Retrospective view on Stadkyll, a hilly landscape. |
Stadtkyll - Heimbach
Day 8 Sunday, 21st June 2009
Kilometre: 53.06 - total 670.55
Altitude: -----536 -total -- 3774
Average: --------------------15.0
Temperature: -------13 º - 18 ºc
Time: 3:31 --------total --40:05
Stadtkyll - Dahlheim - Schmidtheim - Schleiden - Gmünd.
We leave Rheinland-Pfalz and start with Nordrhein-Westfalen |
There is a restaurant/bakery in the centre of town witch offers every Sunday different
breakfast options. The small breakfast is so big that it is enough for us.
We cycle out of the valley. When we get up the hill we have a nice look back at the city of Stadtkyll which still
lies partly in the morning mist.
Up here the sun shines and the wind blows a little, an ideal place to dry the tent.
We follow the "Big Eifel Route", in the midst of a National Park.
The Rureifel is a beautiful area.
Tomorrow we will follow the river Rur. It will be our companion to Roermond (Holland) where the Rur flows into
the Meuse.
Picnic area wit view on Heimbach |
Monastery Mariawald |
Hilly Rureifel |
Castle Hüngebach in Heimbach |
Camping in Heimbach |
Half-timbered houses in Heimbach |
Heimbach - Rosenthal (Dutch border)
Day 9 Monday, 22nd, June 2009
Kilometres: 101.94 total 772.49
Altitude: ------ 434 total --4208
Average: ---------------------16.3
Temperature: --------14 º -20 ºc
Time: 6:15 -------- total --46:51
Heimbach - Nideggen - Jülich - Linnich - Hückelhoven - Wassenberg - Rosenthal.
The river Rur |
Gate in Nydeggen |
Another gate |
We find a bike shop very early this Monday morning, but on a piece of paper is written
"open at 3 p.m."
It is a disappointment but not that tragic. First we have breakfast and we tell the baker that the bike shop is
unfortunately closed until 3 p.m. She picks up the phone, calls the bicycle dealer, and after a while she tells
us, it is ok, you can go to the bike mechanic after the breakfast.
The bicycle is jacked up and the bike mechanic shows me exactly the problematic parts.
From now on I will always carry a spare cable with me because now I know how to replace the cable.
After half an hour I cycle with a perfect working gear. It is wonderful cycling with all gears working perfectly.
From Heimberg a mountain road with a lot of serpentines, leads up to Nideggen, a beautiful little town.
We cycle along the Rur on gravel paths to the Dutch border. In larger towns we leave the path to have a look at
the centre and have a break.
The Rur is about 15 feet wide and winds through the valley, mostly densly forested on both sides.
Over small bridges |
and on gravel paths |
along the Rur |
Citadelle of Jullich |
Rur dam |
Rosenthal (Dutch border) - Xanten
Day 10 Tuesday, 23rd June 2009
Kilometre: 99.93 --- total 872.42
Altitude: ----152 ----total --4360
Average. ----------------------17.0
Temperature: --------13 º - 22 ºc
Time: 5:51 ----------total - 52:42
Rosenthal - Roermond - Reuven - Venlo - Straelen - Geldern - Sonsbeck - Xanten.
Today we cycle through Holland |
The first religiouse building in Holland |
Reuver, coffee break |
A bit mist at departure, and only 13 º c. but that is changing rapidly. In Reuven
we are able to have our first coffee break already on a terrace.
In Venlo we cycle to the centre. We know the city only from passing through by car. I become aware of how much
I miss when I travel by car.
Venlo has a very nice old town with a pleasant marketplace.
Shortly before Xanten a passer-by tells us that there is still a mountain to climb. Indeed, it goes a while up
with 1% to 2%. They have given the mountain the name, "Sonsbecks Switzerland".
After visiting a part of the old town and the Cathedral in Xanten, a couple shows us the way to the campsite and
we cycle with them, Kaethy and Hans, the 3 kilometres outside of town.
The river Maas |
Town hall in Venlo |
The river Maas |
Kaethy + Hans leads us to the camping |
Cathedral in Xanten |
Sunset in Xanten |
Xanten - Weseke (Borken)
Day 11 Wednesday, 24th June 2009
Kilometre: 56.18 ------ total 928.60
Altitude: -----127 ----- total -- 4487
Avg. ------------------------------ 17.1
Temperature: ------------------ 25 ºc
Time: 3:16 --------------total -55:58
Xanten - (by ferry crossing the Rhine) - Hamminkeln - Borken - Weseke.
Xanten has also houses with beautiful facades |
Marketplace in Xanten |
Cathedral |
The Rhine at Xanten |
Waiting for the passage |
We start the day with a sightseeing tour through the old town of Xanten because it was
too late yesterday evening. Then we cycle to the ferry to cross the Rhine. The ferry (only for pedestrians and
bicycles) runs only on certain days. Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The first few Kilometres we cycle on a dyke, then on cycle paths through small hamlets and forests.
Finally summer is back and we are now glad that the path leads through shady forests. The only thing bothering
is the wind. Rika goes ahead and I can cycle in slipstream with an average of 20-24 Km/h. From time to time, I
have to call "not so fast".
The bike paths are excellent.
At about 3 p.m., we arrive in Weseke. My cousin Christel and her husband Jupp live here. The last time we have
seen each other was many years ago. The reception is very warm and coffee with cake is already on the table. (In
former times my cousin has learned confectioner) In the evening three of their children pop in and start heating
the grill. The evening goes by very quickly. As I have a look on the clock I'm surprised that it shows 11p.m.
Rack for bikes |
Solar panels on every roof |
Does he makes it right? |
Weseke - Denekamp (Holland)
Day 12 Thursday, 25th June 2009
Kilometre: 78.31 total ---1006.91
Altitude: ------91 total ------ 4578
Average: -----------------------19.1
Temperature: ---------------- 28 ºc
Time: 4:05 -------total ----- 60:03
Weseke - Vreden - Gronau - Losser (Holl) De Lutte - Denekamp.
Farewell from Christel Jupp |
and Agnes |
At about 9 a.m. we say goodbye to Christel and Jupp and cycle to the nexst cousin Agnes
in Vreden. We haven't seen each other for years too. It is a nice meeting, whereby time goes too quickly. At lunchtime
we leave Agnes and cycle towards Gronau, to cross the border to enter Holland for the second time.
In the first village Losser, a celebration takes place. The temperature rises to 28 ºc. in the shade. We are
looking for a sun-protected place on a terrace and watch the festival buzz.
Until Denekamp we cycle on a road which is green marked on our map. A local tells us that it is the most beautiful
route in Holland.
I don't know how many stars the camping in Denekamp has, but I would give it at least 5.
Today we have crossed the first 1000 kilometres.
Curious cows |
Church in Denekamp |
Sluice Almelo - Nordhorn canal |
Denekamp - Papenburg
Day 13 Friday, 26th June - 2009
Kilometre: 120.86 total 1127.77
Altitude: -------50 total ----4628
Average: ---------------------19.5
Temperature: ---------18 º 28 ºc
Time: 6:11 --------total ---66:14
Denekamp - Nordhorn - Lingen - Meppen - Stavern - Renkenberge - Wippingen - Neuböger - Neulehe - Aschendorf
- Papenburg.
Almelo - Nordhorn canal |
Townhall Meppen |
Dortmund-Ems canal |
Today will be a day along canals.
"Almelo Nordhorn" is the first one. Then in the city of Nordhorn we change to the canal "Ems Vecht"
and in Lingen we follow the Dortmund - Ems canal until Meppen. All the 40 kilometers cycling along canals we meet
only one single car.
We cycle mainly on quiet gravel paths with lot of trees, sometimes through woods.
From Meppen on we follow a military road for 20 Kilometres (prohibited to cars).
It is probably because of the forests that the wind today is not so strong.
In northern Germany a lot of potatoes are eaten |
Meppen |
Papenburg - Nordenham
Day 14 Saturday, 27th June 2009
Kilometers: 109.27 total 1237.04
Altitude:---------30 total ----4658
Average: -----------------------18.9
Temperature: ---------- 18 º 25 ºc
Time: 5:45 --------- total ---71.59
Papenburg - Rhauder - Barssel - Westerstede - Jade - Rodenkirchen - Nordenham.
Deutsche Fehnroute |
Ost-rauder-fehn |
There's no problem to cross the city of Papenburg. For a while we follow the "German Fehn Route", then via Barssel and Apen to Westerstede. A very beautiful city, with many flower decorations in the pedestrian zone. We are already in Jade at 3 p.m., our destination for today, but we decide to cycle a bit further. The shops in Germany are open until 8 p.m. on Saturday i.e. enough time for shopping.
Many avenues between Barssel - Apen |
Westerstede |
North-German farmhaus |
Nordenham - Krautsand (Wirschhaven)
Day 15 Sunday, 28th June 2009
Kilometre: 83.98 -total 1321.02
Altitude: -----80 - total ----4738
Average: ---------------------19.4
Temperature: ---------16 º 24 ºc
Time: 4:19 --------total -- 77:18
Nordenham (ferry across the Weser) - Bremerhaven - Bad Bederkesa - Moor aus Moor - Hemmoor - Krautsand.
Is this flax? (On 22.03.2012. Daniel wrote, this is Phacelia. Thanks Daniel) |
These small flies are very fond of the colour yellow, but only yellow |
From a closer look |
There are 16 ºc when I get up. It's too cold to make a coffee.
We only can hope that a bakery is open which also offers coffee.
After 5 kilometres, we find a bakery, and have time enough for breakfast, the ferry over the river Weser to Bremerhaven
leaves at 9 a.m.
The trip via Langen to Bad Bederkesa is fantastic. The avenues alternate with oak, birch and beech trees.
We arrive already at 1p.m. in Hemmoor and the appetite is big enough for lunch.
The campsite in Krautsand is our destination for today, and only 20 kilometres to go.
In the afternoon the sun comes out and the temperature rises quickly up to 25 ºc.
Farry over the Weser |
Low water |
Church of Krautsand |
The Elbe at Krautsand |
with sandy beach |
Krautsand - Friedrichstadt
Day 16 Monday, 29th June 2009
Kilometres: 105.63 total 1426.63
Altitude: -------131 total --- 4810
Average: ----------------------19.7
Temperature: ----------16 º 28 ºc
Time: ---------5:30 total -- 82:48
Krautsand - Wirschhafen - Glückstadt - Wilster - Hochdonn - Meldorf - Heide - Lunden - Friedrichstadt.
Crossing the Elbe. The Frenchman cycles with, a unicycle as a trailer |
Windmill in Wilstadt |
|
Church in Heide |
On the ferry to Glückstadt we meet a Frenchman from Chamonix. His goal is the South
of Norway. That must be the Mecca for base jumping. It is a kind of sport where you need good nerves. They jump
from ledges and sail down with special made clothes.
Around noon we reach the Nord - Ostsee - Kanal. The ferry is free, a little farther away is a bridge only for the
train. It was built 80 years ago and quite recently it has been overhaulen.
During our lunch, with a view to the bridge, we dry our tents while we put them over the bicycles. The sun is coming
out at the right time.
All the roads we cycle on cycle paths. That makes cycling verry pleasant.
At 6 p.m. we reach Friedrichstadt, built in the 16th Century by the Dutch. That is why one could believe to be
in Holland with "canals and facades of the houses" like in Amsterdam.
Bridge for the train at Hochdonn on the Nord-Ostsee-Canal |
On the other side of the dike in Friedrichstadt |
|
Camping, protected by dikes |
Friedrichstadt - Westenholz
Day 17 Tuesday, June 30th 2009
Kilometre: 85.31 total --1511.94
Altitude: ----167 total ------4977
Average: ----------------------17.4
Temperature: ----------18 º 28 ºc
Time: 4:55 ------ total -----87:43
Friedrichstadt - Husum - Flensburg - Langbillig - Westenholz.
Channels and facades in Friedrichstadt similar to Holland |
|
Friedrichstadt is foundet |
in the 17 century |
by the Dutch |
We make a sightseeing tour through the beautiful town of Friedrichstadt.
We have 20 Kilometre to go to Husum, a beautiful harbour town, which we also visit.
The trip from Husum to Flensburg is a 40 kilometre straight road, the A 200. Parallel is a cycle track.
The pedestrian area of Flensburg is beautiful. We are relaxing on a terrace after 40 kilometres fighting against
the wind, without any protection of forests or buildings.
In the afternoon we cycle up to the Baltic Sea. Here begins the Baltic-Sea-Route which will lead us to the island
of Rügen.
Husum |
Wanderup picknick area |
Flensburg |
Flensburg |
Connection for Akku |
Sunset in Westernholz |
The many cornfields would suggest that here in the north much bread is eaten |
Westenholz - Laboe
Day 18 Wednesday, 1st. July 2009
Kilometres: 108.08 -total 1620.02
Altitude:------- 273 -total ----5250
Average: ----------------------- 19.8
Temperature: ----------- 18 º 28 ºc
Time: 5:30 ----------total --- 93:13
Westenholz - Kappeln - Arnis - Thumby - Eckernförde - Schwedeneck - Friedrichsort - (ferry) Laboe.
History of the mill |
to read, click on the image |
Roofs like in Denmark |
Kornfeld lined with cornflower |
Windmill in Kappeln |
Waiting for the ferry in Arnis |
The smallest city in Germany, Arnis |
With the ferry across the fjord Schlei |
Thatched roof |
We find the cycle path along the Baltic Sea and continue to Gelting. Via Kappeln we arrive
in Arnis, "the smallest city in Germany," as we are told, with 360 inhabitants. Here we take the ferry
over the fjord Schlei.
We remain on the cross-country roads through small villages like Winnemark and Thumby.
The temperature is fine to have a picnic on the beach in Eckernförde. Many people are swimming in the sea,
but for me the water is still a bit too cold.
We remain on the Baltic Sea route and via Surendorf we come to the ferry in Friedrichsort.
On our map it looks like the whole fjord around Kiel is overcrowded. The ferry will bring us in 15 minutes to the
other side of the fjord to Laboe. It is not really a ferry but a ship which is very difficult to embark for people
with bikes. There is a flight of stairs, and a bridge which is too narrow for bikes with luggage to enter. This
is the most expensive ferry so far, € 14.
Eckernförde |
Laboe |
Grain up to the Baltic Sea |
Harvest time is soon at the Baltic Sea |
Laboe - Priwall (Travemünde)
Day 19 Thursday, 2nd. July 2009
Kilometre: 93.06 --total 1713.08
Altitude: -----369--total --- 5619
Average:---------------------- 19.1
Temperature: --------- 18 º 29 ºc
Time: 4:54 ---------total -- 98:07
Laboe - Lütjenburg - Schönwald - Neustadt - Haftkrug - Travemünde - Priwall.
Marketplace in Lütjenburg |
Schönenwalde |
Since 2 weeks we get up with sunshine. In southern Germany and Switzerland it is raining
at the moment. We are very lucky.
Before departing in the morning we usually have some fruits, for example a banana and apple, depending on what
is left in our luggage bags. The right breakfast, we have after approximately 20 to 30 kilometres. Lütjenburg
is 30 kilometres away which means breakfast will be in Lütjenburg. Last year it has been a stop over for coffee
on my way from the North Cape.
With Lütjenburg we reach "Holsteinisch Switzerland". The hills are not high but we cycle constantly
up and down with almost no wind this morning
We take the road 501 via Schönwalde and arrive in Neustadt at the "Lübeckerbucht" and are back
at the Baltic Sea. At the tourist information I ask if there's a campground on the peninsula Priwall.
To get there we need again to catch a ferry in Travemünde.
It is still early in the afternoon as we arrive at the campsite. We can use the washing machine and dryer so we
can start with clean cycle cloths tomorrow for the next, 7th State on our tour "Mecklenburg-Vorpommern".
On the ferry to Priwall |
Neustadt, Lübecker Bucht |
Vour-master in Priwall |
Harbour in Priwall |
Priwall - Pepelow
Day 20 Friday, 3rd. July 2009
Kilometre: 80.64 total 1793.72
Altitude: ---- 323 total ---5942
Average: --------------------17.8
Temperature: ------- 18 º 30 ºc
Time: 4:31 ------- total --92:38
Priwall - Dassow - Gravesmühlen - Wismar - Hornstorf - Kartlow - Blowatz - Pepelow.
Corn, corn, corn. |
Heiligegeist church in Wismar |
Centre Wismar |
Break |
After a few miles, we reach the former GDR.
There is a local fair in Gavesmühlen, which always brings life and bustle with it.
The next stop is Wismar. In the Church of the Holy Spirit is a guided tour. The church has one of the oldest stained
glass windows through which the sun shines in bright colours.
On the way out of Wismar we ask a group of men for the right direction. The men do not agree with each other and
there is a loud confrontation. Somewhat embarrassed, we sneak away unnoticed from the group. After a while we see
a sign which shows the right track. Nevertheless, we lose our way, however to our advantage, because we're coming
through small picturesque villages on quiet roads.
Centre Wismar |
This small flies like yellow but only yellow |
Sunset in Pepelow |
Pepelow - Bodstedt
Day 21 Saturday 4th. July 2009
Kilometers: 109.95 total1903.67
Altitude: 244 -------total ---6186
Average :--------------------- 18.5
Temperature: ------- 19 º - 26 ºc
Time: 5:56 --------- total - 98:34
Pepelow - Neubukow - Kröpeliner - Bad Doberan - Rostock - Niederhagen - Graal-Müritz - Ribnitz - Hall
- Bodstedt.
Harbour Rostock |
Pedestrian precinct Rostock |
When we leave the camping, there are already 19 ºc although the sun doesn't really
shine.
In Bad Doberan we see a locomotive with a few wagons driving through the street. I want to take a picture, but
it is already gone.
Rostock, is not my town, though there are a few beautiful buildings, for example the town hall. Also the pedestrian
zone has beautiful facades but they are too high to get a cosy effect.
After Rostock we leave the A road 105.
We cycle on dirt paths sometimes paved roads to the north.
The cornfields, lined with cornflower are already yellow, and will certainly be harvested in the next few days.
Town hall Rostock |
Church Rostock |
Ribnitz |
Bodstedt - Stralsund
Day 22 Sunday 5th. July 2009
Kilometre: 44.85 total 1948.52
Altitude: 80 ----- total ----6266
Average: --------------------17.2
Temperature: --------18 º 23 ºc
Time: 2:37 -------total - 101:11
Brodstedt - Barth - Grabow - Krönnevitz - Preetz - Straldund.
The river and city Barth |
Roadside |
Barth |
Fountain in Stralsund |
Rathaus Stralsund |
After 10 kilometres we are in Barth. I appreciate the fact that bakeries are open on Sundays
in Germany.
We continue the journey and it begins to rain slightly, stops and starts again, poncho on, poncho off, for several
times.
Today is Sunday, so the main road is ours. From Duvendiek on, a few miles of cobblestone begins which is neither
good for the bike nor for our back. Faster than 10 km/h is impossible.
It's still raining a little as we arrive in Stralsund, and we book a night in the youth hostel at Stralsund.
In the afternoon we stroll into town, luckily it isn't raining anymore. We meet cyclist from Augsburg coming back
from the island of Ruegen. The east coast is very touristic and there are a lot of tourists, everything is expensive.
The Northwest, however, is empty with wide flat land, is their impression. Tomorrow we will make our own experiences.
Back from the city stroll, we are more exhausted than, of 50 kilometres cycling.
Nikolaichurche in Stralsund |
Cycle couple from Regensburg |
Nikolai churche |
Stralsund |
Town hall Stralsund |
Stralsund - Prora (Sassnitz, Rügen)
Day 23 Monday, 6th. July 2009
Kilometre: 81.64 total 2030.16
Altitude: ----- 89 total --- 6355
Average: ------------------- 17.7
Temperature: ------- 18 º 27 ºc
Time: 4:37 ------ total -105.48
Stralsund - Gustow - Garz - Putbus - Binz - Prora (Sassnitz)
Dyke and bridge Stralsund-Rügen |
Tree-lined walk |
Sassnitz North-East of Rügen |
Accommodation and breakfast is from 7 a.m. on. Youth hostel means, few packing in the morning.
We cycle on a country road via Garz and Putbus. The name of this avenue is "Deutsche Alleen Strasse".
The road is newly asphalted but without a cycle path. Fortunately, there is not much traffic. As soon as we enter
a Village the roads gets terrible for cycling.
Large cobblestones are hard to cycle. Where the cobblestones are missing, the holes are filled up with asphalt,
or still empty. In Vilmnitz it gets that bad that cycling is impossible and we push the bikes through the village.
From Binz on, the roads are wonderful, smooth and without unevenness, even with a cycle path along the coast towards
the north.
Until now we have paid for a camp site € 11 to € 15 (for both). Here they charge € 39
When I ask why so much more than in other parts of Germany, the explanation is "the season is very short",
(shorter than in other places in Germany???)
We find a private campground for € 24
The campground is located in an area which is shown on our map as "flintstone fields". Around 2 p.m.
we are finished with pitching the tents.
We cycle to Sassnitz (7 km) without luggage. We enter a cutter for 12 people and travel along the 9-kilometer coastline
of chalk cliffs.
The chalk coast of Rügen, crumbling every year slightly |
Prora (Rügen) - Gahlkow (Greifswald)
Day 24 Tuesday,7th June 2009
Kilometre: 89.44 total 2119.60
Altitude: ---- 285 total -- 6640
Average: --------------------18.3
Temperature: --------18 º 24 ºc
Time: 4:53 -------total --110:41
Prora - Bergen - Putbus - Garz - Glewitzer Fähre - Greifswald - Kemnitz - Gahlkow.
Bergen centre of Rügen |
Glewitzer Ferry connection to the mainland |
Until Bergen (20 km) there is a bicycle path which runs parallel to the road. After some
time we have to leave the cycle path due to tarmac the path, the main road is already asphalted.
Bergen is the largest city on the island and here I can get Euros from my post account.
We cycle via Putbus and Garz to the Glewitzer ferry who brings us back to the mainland.
From Rheinsberg to Greifswald, we have two choices, the new ore the old road. On the new one is much traffic and
the Old is made of cobblestones. We decide for the old one. After 16 kilometres we are totally shaken. Cobblestone
streets looking good, but for cycling, it is a disaster.
Our tents neighbour comes from Holland. They make the Hanseatic Cities Tour.
I didn't know that there are so many Hanseatic Cities but the neighbour says there are more than 200 of them.
Today is market day in Greifswald |
Mill and tatched roof house |
Many tatched roofs in Kemnitz |
Gahlkow - Pasewalk.
Day 25 Wednesday, 8th. July 2009
Kilometre: 89.43 ----total 2209.03
Altitude:-----152 ----total ----6792
Average: ------------------------19.3
Temperature: ------------16 º 24 ºc
Time: 4:38------------total -115:24
Gahlkow - Memnitz - Hanshagen - Anklam - Ferdinandshof - Pasewalk.
Streets this way or another |
they are both hard to go |
At the old part of the church, the stones are the same as the road |
Wind power station in Anklam |
City of Anklam |
We cycle through hamlets and villages with adventurous roads, sometimes just sandy, sometimes
cobblestones of which the holes are not always easy to avoid. Later on we come to a road which feels like velvet
and we get fast forward.
It is suddenly stormy when we arrive in Jatznick. We just have time to look for shelter before the rain, thunder
and lightning begins. After half an hour break, all is over.
In Pasewalk I go to the tourist info and ask whether the campsite 20 Km further still exists. Unfortunately, the
answer is no.
She says: "Here in Pasewalk we have a meadow where people can pitch their tent". You get a key for the
sanitary fittings and we get € 20 as deposit, and € 10 for the night. We are surprised by the beautiful sports
and leisure complex.
Because the space is not under surveillance, we can put the bikes in the shed.
The city of Pasewalk provides this building and meadow to |
canoeing and cycling fans |
Pasewalk - Parsteinersee.
Day 26 Thursday, 9th July 2009
Kilometre: 84.77 -total 2293.38
Altitude: ---- 360- total ---7152
Average: ---------------------17.5
Temperature: ---------16 º 23 ºc
Time: 4:50 --------total -120:14
Pasewalk - Prenzlau - Greifenberg - Angermünde - Parsteinersee.
This plant has been mixed under the cornflower and has a slightly deeper blue |
||
Gate in Prenzlau |
|
Angermünde |
Beautiful market place in Angermünde |
It doesn't rain but we have a strong headwind, certainly the strongest on our tour.
From Switzerland to Flensburg the wind came from Nord-west to Nord-east. In Flensburg the wind changed to East
wind. We didn't trust our ears when we heard the weather forecast in Rügen, "the wind will turn to the
Southwest"!!!
The positive of an e-bike, even with headwind, we reach 20 km./h.
Via Prenzlau we cycle to Angermünde where we have a long break.
As we reach the Parsteinersee, our destination for today, we have cycled only 85 kilometres but we feel as we had
cycled 120 Km.
Between Prenzlau and Angemünde |
Harvest at a wind power station |
Parsteinersee - Bad Saarow.
Day 27 Friday, 10th. July 2009
Kilometers: 102.69 total 2396.07
Altitude: ------ 347 total ---7499
Average: -----------------------18.1
Temperature: ----------16 º 20 ºc
Time: 5:39 --------- total -125:53
Parstein - Bad Freienwalde - Wriezen - Prötzel - Münchenberg - Fuerstenwalde - Bad Saarow.
Bad Frauenwalde former hospital. Now Concert Hall (1696) |
If this is a fireplace, then these storks have chosen a nice warm place |
Almost all German cities have a tower like this in Munichenberg |
The wind is very strong and we ask ourselves whether it is possible to get even worse.
After our first break in Bad Freienwalde it gets dark and soon the sky opens. Rain, thunder, lightning and even
hail comes from above. It is probably getting worse!
After a quarter of an hour, the rain turns into lighter rain, and a while later the sun appears again.
Destination for today is the Scharmützelsee. Unfortunately in Fuerstenwalde, it starts to rain again.
I have a look on my map to I see whether somewhere in the vicinity is a youth hostel. And there is one indeed in
Bad Saarow 10 kilometres away. We are lucky it is Friday and not occupied.
Bad Saarow - Bagenz (Cottbus)
Day 28 Saturday, 11th. July 2009
Kilometers: 102.91 total 2498.98
Altitude: -------201 total ----7700
Average: -----------------------19.9
Temperature: -----------16 º 23 ºc
Time: 5:10 ---------total --131:03
Bad Saarow - Lindenberg - Beeskow - Friedland - Lieberose - Peitz - Heinersbrueck - Roggoser - Laubsdorf - Bagenz
(Spremberg Dam)
Two towers at the walls of Beeskow |
8 twin towns from Friedland |
The roads are very good, many tree-lined roads and a lot of sunflower fields. It is still
a bit fresh in the morning but great for cycling.
Arriving in Friedland, we have enough kilometres and appetite for a 2nd breakfast. A Polish cyclist is almost finished
with his breakfast when we enter the Restaurant. When bikers meet there are many topics of conversation. He is
been retired recently and has organized a celebration for his colleagues, which will take place in a few days.
He is on his way home and won't miss his date.
The landscape between Lieberose and Peitz is, with his many sunflower fields in full bloom, especially appealing.
At a lake in Peitz, we have picnic. A Greenpeace fan wouldn't be happy with this panorama. I count 9 cooling towers
on the other side of the lake. They belong to a lignite power plant. In contrast he would love, what we see 10
kilometres further. We cycle along one of the many wind parks in this area. I count mostly 25 to 30 windmills for
one park.
On a cobblestone road that leads to the campsite, we are shaken all over the place.
Today I landed in a ditch. I cycled up too close to Rika, touched her rear wheel and lost balance. Unfortunately,
the mirror of my helmet is broken. It looks like a mirror for my helmet is not available in Germany. I will buy
a new one, once I'll be back in Switzerland. A mirror is cheap but has big advantages. For me almost indispensable
now that I'm used to it.
Lieberose, left sunflowers right corn |
Peitz, brown coal fired power station |
Spreestauwehr Bagenz - Tauscha (Radeburg)
Day 29 Sunday, 12th. July 2009
Kilometre: 87.22 -total 2586.62
Altitude: -----176 -total -- 7876
Average: ------------------19.3ºc
Time: 4:30 -------- total 135:33
Bagenz - Spremberg - Hoyerswerda - Berndorf - Swepnitz - Königsbrück - Tauscha.
Spremberg |
Königsburg |
With a banana and an apple we start this stage on a beautiful Sunday morning. There is
almost no traffic on the roads which leads through many forests. It is mostly oak forest with scattered birches
and beeches. Sometimes corn fields, most of them are already harvested.
Hoyerswerda is a disappointment, but a stay in a bakery/restaurant is a bit of an compensation.
The poncho is in the meantime on the bottom of my bag.
We went to a camping place shortly before Dresden, to be in the city early in the morning. From a cycling couple
in Königsbrück we get good suggestions which way to Dresden is the best and most beautiful. They recommend
via Radeburg and Mauritzburg is the best solution. Unexpectedly before Radeburg, we see a street sign to a campsite.
It lies deep in a forest and has a small lake.
In this forest the campsite of |
Tauscha is located on a small lake |
Tauscha - Freiberg.
Day 30 Monday, 13th. July 2009
Kilometre: 78.62 total -2665.24
Altitude: ---- 721 total ----8597
Average ----------------------15.3
Temperature: ---------18 º 26 ºc
Time: 5:06 --------total -140:39
Tauscha - Radeburg - Mauritzburb - Dresden - Freital - Freiberg.
Hunting lodge Mauritzburg |
A cycle path to Dresden |
We have a very dry tent to pack even though it is only 10 meters from the lake.
I still haven't found out why sometimes the tent is so wet and on other days almost dry.
We cycle on the "Deutsche Alleen Strasse" which leads all the way into the city of Dresden.
In Mauritzburg we come to a hunting lodge with a stud farm. We see how the horses are being taken care of. They
brush their skin and comb their mane.
The suburb of Dresden is not different than many other cities, boring and gray, the old town, however, a jewel.
From far away, we see the Semperoper. Over a bridge, crossing the Elbe, we stand in front of the cathedral. Left
over the rooftops you can see the Frauenkirche. "1726 - 1743"
The cupola crashed together on February 15th. 1945, following a bombing attack on Dresden. Until 1990 - 1998 it
has been an important memorial to the war. With Global donation funds, the church returned to its original shape.
(Consecration in October 2005)
When we were here last time (August 2005) it wasn't quite ready. We are more pleased when we get to know that they
have a guided tour.
We find immediately the way out of town towards Freital. Now begins the eastern part of "Saxon Switzerland",
i.e. from now on, it gets hilly. (to be seen at the day altitude)
Cathedral in Dresden |
Frauenkirche, Dresden |
Freital |
Freiberg - Schneeberg.
Day 31 Tuesday, 14th. July 2009
Kilometre: --82.88 total 2748.12
Altitude: -----1000 total --- 9597
Average: ----------------------15.8
Time: 5:15 ---------total -145:54
Branderbisdorf - Eppendorf - Eibenstock - Zschopau - Zwönitz - Aue - Schneeberg.
The river Flöha |
The river Zschopau |
Beautiful roads and little traffic |
We are in the midst of the "Erzgebirge". With a daily altitude of 1000m, you
can see that it is only up and down. The landscape is beautiful and entertaining with lots of oak forests.
We cross 2 mountain ridges with the rivers Flöha and Zschopau down into the valley. Then we follow for 20
kilometers the river Zschopau.
Until Schneeberg, our destination for today, we have to cycle 40 kilometres through hilly countryside.
Schneeberg is a spa resort with 2 campsites. The one we selected has the most beautiful sanitary fittings on our
journey.
Schneeberg - Bad Brambach
Day 32 Wednesday, 15th. July 2009
Kilometre: 73.05------ total 2821.17
Altitude: ---1051------ total --10648
Average: --------------------------14.9
Temperature: ------------- 16 º 20 ºc
Time: 4:52 ------------ total -150:46
Schneeberg - Zschorlau - Eibenstock - Schönheide - Schöneck - Market Neukirchen - Schönlind - Bad
Brambach.
Slate roofs in the Hartz, like on the other side of Germany in the Eifel |
Markneukirchen from here we have to climb a 19% slope over approximately 2 Km |
From the east Erzgebirge we move into Vogtland, the landscape remains hilly.
The weather isn't kind with us. We have to put a few times our poncho.
Nature is very beautiful. Oak forests are replaced for coniferous forest and the roofs of houses are made of slate,
similar in the Eifel, on the other side of Germany.
The A road 283 is almost not used. Along the lake Eibenstock we have to make a detour due to construction works.
That's typical in Germany they close the streets without further ado, no matter how big the detour is. For us,
a plus point because it means we have to go through the town of Eibenstock. Beautifully situated on a slope, for
us an opportunity to look for a bakery and have a break.
Via Schöneck we get to Markneukirchen. Here at the tourist info we organize a private overnight accommodation
in Bad Brambach.
Until Bad Brambach we have to cycle 15 kilometres, about 1 ½ hours. We have to overcome a steep road out
of Markneukirchen to Schönlind with a slope of 19%, new daily record of altitude.
Final look back on the hilly Vogtland |
Day 33 Thursday, 16th. July 2009
Kilometre: 77.98 ---total 2899.15
Altitude: -----497 ---total --11145
Average: ---------------------- 18.5
Temperature: ---------- 19 º 30 ºc
Time: 4:30 -----------total 155:16
Bad Brambach - Czech border - Frantiskovy - Cheb - Waldsassen - Mitterteich - Tisrchenreuth - Neustadt an der Waldnaab.
Ca. 20 Km. Chech Republic |
Cheb a very beautiful city in Czech Republic |
Basilika Waldsassen. The first city in the 10th State "Bavaria" |
||
Cheb |
|
Tirschenreuth |
We say goodby to our landlady and cycle towards the Czech Republic.
The first stop is in the town of Cheb (Eger). We are amazed from the magnificent city.
In a cosy restaurant I order a cup of chocolate milk. What I get is something between pasta and chocolate milk
to "eat" with a spoon. It tasts very good, other countries, other customs.
After 5 more miles we are back in Germany. The 10th. and last state on our trip Bavaria.
The first city is Waldsassen with a huge basilica. This morning our hostess said if we go through Waldsassen, we
have to see this Basilica. From the inside it is very richly decorated with lots of angels, sculptured Saints,
colourful paintings and plenty of gold leaf. On each altars side is a shrine. There is not just a piece of relic
in it but a whole skeleton, dressed in splendid robes and decorative features, e.g. finger rings and necklaces.
I get a strange feeling the way the dead saints look at me.
In Tirchenreuth, a town with a beautiful square, of which each house is immaculately maintained, we learn that
the next campsite is in Neustadt an der Waldnaab.
This evening there is a concert on the campsite with the local brass band. They play a generous selection of vivacious
tunes including the beautiful song, "Blauer Donau". In 2 days we will see how blue the river "Danube"
really is.
Tirschenreuth - Neustadt an der Waldnaab |
Many houses have solar panels on their roofs |
Brass-band musik at the camping |
Neustadt an der Waldnaab - Eixendorfer Stausee (Rötz)
Day 34 Friday, 17th. July 2009
Kilometre: 79.38 total 2978.53
Altitude: ---- 961 total --12106
Average: --------------------17.5
Time: 4:31 ------- total -159:47
Neustadt an der Waldnaab - Weiden - Oberviechtag - Rötz - Eixdorfer Stausee.
Tirschenreuth |
Oberviechtach |
We cycle on the A road 22, sometimes with, sometimes without a cycle path. This part of
Bavaria is called "Oberpfalz",
The city of Weiden has a beautiful old town with houses, such as in Amsterdam but the façade are plastered
and painted with different colours.
In Oberviechtag we meet 2 hikers on a terrace. It is their 9th. day of walking. Each one carries 10 kilograms on
his back and walk 20 kilometres a day. This must be very strenuous. I prefer the double weight on my bike.
The campsite at Eixendorfersee is located on a slope and is constructed in terraces. That way, people have a beautiful
view on the lake.
Terraced campsite |
Eixendorfersee |
Eixendorfer Stausee - Straubing.
Day 35 Saturday, 18th. July 2009
Kilometre: 82.47 total -- 3143.79
Altitude: ---- 425 total ---- 12531
Average: ---------------------- 18.3
Temperature: ---------- 15 º 18 ºc
Time: 4:29 --------total ---164:16
Eixendorfersee - Rötz - Cham - Stallwang - Straubing.
Many artifical ponds |
Original inn |
Gate in true Bavarian Colour |
Tonight I had to get up to tighten the ropes of the tent. The next morning when we are
leaving we see how strong the gale mast have been, trees, branches and twigs everywhere.
After a few kilometres it begins to rain, sometimes violently sometimes light rain.
After 33 kilometre non stop rain we reach Cham. First thing we do is to have a good breakfast then we go to the
tourist info to book a night in the youth hostel in Straubing. We are lucky in Bavaria as the school holidays begin
in August therefore there's enough place in the youth hostel.
For lunch, we stop in a Stallwang. At the entrance is a pole with features of different guild. To be seen in many
villages in Bavaria. We enter a quaint pub painted in the colours of Bavaria "blue and white". In the
corner hangs a crucifix; we are in Bavaria.
The Bavarian Forest is a very beautiful landscape, a pity that it's raining the whole day.
Landmark of Straubing |
on a sunday morning |
Straubing - Passau
Day 36 Sunday, 19th. July 2009
Kilometres: 109.59 total 3253.38
Altitude: -----226 --total --12757
Average: --------------------- 19.4
Temperature: ----------18 º 23 ºc
Time: 5:38 ---------total -169:54
Straubing - Deggendorf - Vilshofen - Irring - Passau - Irring.
Danube^ Mariaposching> |
Bridge before Deggendorf |
The Danube carries a lot of water Left and right Deggendorf |
Before we start cycling along the river Danube we make a sightseeing tour through the city
of Straubing.
The city on this Sunday morning is almost abandoned, ideal to cycle.
Quick we find the Danube Cycle Path, one of the most famous cycle routes in Europe.
The first break is in Deggendorf. We see many Danube cyclists sitting on a terrace enjoying their first break.
We remain on the north side of the river until Vilshofen which is on the other side. To visit the town and to have
lunch we cross the bridge.
We stay on the north side until shortly before Passau.
There should be a youth hostel and camping in the city.
We ask passers-by for the camping. We have to cross the bridge to the northern side and see a sign for the camping
which shows upstream along the river Danube. We follow the signs on a one-way street with a lot of traffic.
At a gas station, I ask if we cycle the right way. The answer is two more kilometres.
After 5 kilometres, we are back in Irring where we have been one hour before. It is a real odyssey. Later we learn
that in Passau actually is a campsite but not signposted.
Deggendorf |
Vilshofen |
Danube cycle path |
Danube cycle path Left and right Vilshofen |
Motorway bridge 10 Kilometre befor Passau |
Irring - Braunau (Österreich)
Day 37 Monday, 20th. July 2009
Kilometre: -83.21 total 3336.59
Altitude: ----- 260 total --13017
Average: ---------------------17.6
Temperature: ---------16 º 25 ºc
Time: 4:43 --------total -174: 37
Irring - Passau - (Innradweg) - Neuhaus - Pocking - Kirchham - Ering - Braunau (Austria)
Danube sluise |
Town hall in Passau |
Cathedral in Passau |
Garden at the Inn cycle path |
Electical power station at the river Inn |
I put my Bike computer at zero to see how much the detour has been. Exactly 11 kilometres,
that makes 22 in total. On a cycle path a detour doesn't matter, but in such a dangerous road without bike path,
1 Km is already too much.
Passau is worth seeing and we cycle through the city. Rika need Euros so we are looking for a bank to fill up her
purse.
2 rivers are flowing into the Danube at Passau, the Ilz from the north and Inn from the south. We are looking for
the Inn which will be our companion for the next few days.
The first 10 kilometres are on gravel roads through the forest, with the river on the left side. Sometimes with
a 15% slope, so that the rear wheel almost spins.
On a computer I see that in Braunau (on the Austrian side) is a campsite. It is the only one in the area.
In Ering we see a well known sign "detour" but luckily there is a power plant in the river Inn with a
footbridge so we continue on a bike path on the Austrian side of the Inn to Braunau.
Coffee break in Ering |
Chapel in Tutting |
Castle on the Austrian side of the Inn |
Day 38 Tuesday, 21st. July 2009
Kilometre: -- 93.42 total 3430.01
Altitude: -------445 total --13462
Average: ---------------------- 18.0
Temperature: -----------19 º 30 ºc
Time: 5:11 --------- total -179:48
Braunau - Marktl - Neuötting - Mühldorf - Waldkraiburg - Aschau - Gars - Soyen.
Millions of dead admonish |
City gate in Braunau |
Hitlers birthplace |
Farmer and priest have the same clock |
The Inn at Marktl (Birthplace of Pope Benedict XVI) |
We cycle through the town of Braunau and come to a house with a memorial stone on the pavement.
On this stone I read; for peace, freedom and democracy, never again fascism, millions of dead admonish. In this
house Hitler was born.
We follow the Inn via Maktl to Neuötting, a beautiful town with a large square in the centre, ideal for a
break.
We cycle on the A road 12 until Mühldorf and then overland along the Inn via Waldkraiburg and Gars to Lengmoos.
From here it is 4 km to the camping in Soyen. Unfortunately the road is blocked and we see the familiar sign "detour."
Now it is 15 km instead of 4 via the A road 15. Fortunately, this road has a bike path.
Marketplace Neuötting |
Strange nests |
Solar panel |
Rika on her Flyer |
Camping in Soyen |
Guild tree in Soyen |
Soyen - Stallauer Weiher (Bad Tolz)
Day 39 Wednesday, 22st July 2009
Kilometre: ------96.64 total 3526.65
Altitude: ---------- 679 total --14141
Average: ------------------------- 17.7
Temperature: --------------20 º 30 ºc
Time: 5:27 -------------total -185:15
Soyensee - Rott am Inn - Lampferding - Tuntenhausen - Beyharting - Bruckmühl - Westerham - Weyarn - Warngau
- Piesenkam - Sachsenkam - Bad Tölz.
Between Rott and Tuntenhausen |
You see them many times in Bavaria |
Coming home, do you see the church that way if you are a little tipsy? |
Beyharting Johan-Baptist-Church |
|
|
Religiosity is deeply rooted |
|
Although it didn't rain, we wrap the tent wet.
After 20 kilometres with almost no wind, we reach Rott am Inn.
A man at the table next to us, who is also having breakfast, is interested in our journey. He asked us whether
he may draw on my map the best route. In dotted line, he drew all the way to Bad Tölz. It is perhaps not the
most simple (2 times 17% and daily height of 679m.) but certainly the most beautiful and tranquil.
Pictures of Bad Tölz, I have seen on television from the TV show "Der Bulle von Tölz". It is
actually nicer than I have in memory, in addition, the river Isar with nice beaches for swimming.
The camping in Stallauer Weiher has a restaurant with "Biergarten" so that we can close the day with
a big beer. After such a strenuous day I think we deserve it.
Today we see the 2nd times this sign |
The Alps in the background |
|
|
Church in Bad Tölz |
|
Bad Tölz |
The river Isar in Bad Tölz |
Bad Tölz - Lechbruck
Day 40 Thursday, 23th. July 2009
Kilometre: ---72.72 total 3599.37
Altitude: --------556 total --14697
Average: -----------------------17.1
Temperature: -----------20 º 35 ºc
Time: 4:14 ----------total -189:29
Bad Tölz - Bichl - Sindelsdorf - Murnau - Bad Kohlgrub - Steingaden - Lechbruck.
Painted house in Bad Tolz |
Bad Kohlgrub |
Bad Kohlgrub |
We start the day with good bike paths along the A road 427 to the west. Unfortunately,
they disappear after many kilometres. The wind comes from the side and increases the longer we journey. Sudden
gust of wind force us to leave the road. From Sindelsdorf on we go on smaller roads towards Murnau.
Murnau is located on a lake with a campground however it is too early to call it a day. Kohlgrub is a beautiful
town with a store, where we find everything for a picnic.
For the afternoon there are about 40 kilometres to go via Steingaden to Lechbruck.
In the evening I clean the chains of the two bikes with a degreaser for the last time on this trip. If the chains
are dry tomorrow morning, I will put some oil.
This road is called "Romantic Road" |
20 Km and prohibited for cars |
Lechbruck - Isny
Day 41 Friday, 24th. July 2009
kilometre: 91.37 total 3690.74
Altitude: ----780 total --15477
Average: -------------------17.9
Temperature: -------17 º 24 ºc
Time: 5:06 -------total 194:35
Lechbruck - Burggen - Marktoberdorf - Unterthingau - Wilpoldsried - Betzigau - Kempten - Buchenbreg - Isny.
Kempten |
Between Kempten and Isny |
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Marktoberdorf |
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Before Kempten with the Alps in the background |
We leave Lechbruck with overcast skies in the southeast and bright blue in the northwest.
Judging by the wind, the cloudless sky in the North should win.
We cycle along the river Lech to the north on which the road is blocked for cars.
20 kilometres on such quiet road until we reach the A road 472 is fantastic. There is no wind and traffic within
limits.
The bike computer shows 45 kilometres when we reach Marktoberdorf.
Friday is market day and a hustle and bustle in the city. When we come back from breakfast there are 4 people around
the e-bike. They want to know everything about the bike. How it works, what is the range, how long it takes until
the battery is charged etc. They have already heard about it and want to buy one too.
Enough of the A road 472, we continue our way to Kempten on quieter roads through small farming villages.
In Bavaria and in North Germany we see lot of houses with solar panels on their roofs. It is possible that subsidies
are different from country to country.
We have to climb a little pass over a distance of 5 miles to Buchenberg.
Rika is far ahead and overtake a man who pushes his bicycle. He sees that I cycle afterwards, he looks again to
Rika then to me. It looks like he thinks there must be something wrong, a woman ahead and the man afterwards.
Isny in Allgäu is a pretty town with a few onion cupola towers of which we have seen so many in Bavaria, houses
with coloured walls and a beautiful square. Isny is the first city in Baden - Wuerttemberg and we have left Bavaria.
Between Kempten und Isny |
Isny - Steckborn (Schweiz)
Day 42 Saturday, 25th. July 2009
Kilometres: 113.06 total 3803.38
Altitude: ----795 --- total - 16272
Average: -----------------------18.3
Temperature: -----------14 º 25 ºc
Time: 6:09 ---------- total -200:44
Isny - Eglofs - Wangen - Neukirch - Steinenbach - Langnau - Kressbron.
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Isny centre |
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Hops, size in comparison with the bike |
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Gate in Wangen |
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Guild tree at the lake of Constance |
Until Eglofs is a cycle path, the rest to Wangen is careful cycling. The traffic is within
limits this Saturday morning.
In the city is a hustle and bustle. We soon find out that a parade will take place. People in medieval clothes
run around. Men with halberds and women bear fruit baskets. We look at the parade for about one hour then we try
to leave the city, which is not so easy. A police officer gives us some hints with secret paths we can go. Soon
we find the river Argen which we follow all the way to Kressbron at lake Constance.
In the afternoon we cycle along the Lake via Friedrichshafen to Meersburg.
The last ferry on our Germany tour will take us from here to Constance.
We cross the border to Switzerland and cycle along the "Untersee" to Steckborn which is for us a well
known path. The campsite is separated, cyclists on the East, side caravans to the west.
Grapes at the lake of Constance |
Ferry Meersburg - Constance |
Camping for cyclists |
Steckborn - Bremgarten
Day 43 Sunday, 26th. July, 2009
Kilometres: 118.36 total 3921.74
Altitude: -------514 total -- 16786
Average: -----------------------20.3
Temperature: -----------14 º 27 ºc
Time: 5:49 ---------total ---206:38
Steckborn - Schaffhausen - Neunkirch (Klettgau) - Lauchringen - Waldshut - Brugg - Bremgarten.
Klettgau |
Neunkirch |
On this bridge in Waldshut, the tour around Germany ends |
To conclude our trip we have a good meal in Waldshut |
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Diessenhofen |
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Early in the morning we start cycling along the "Untersee", and later we follow
the Rhine.
At 9 a.m. we are already in Schaffhausen.
We miss the open bakeries on Sunday we used to have breakfast in Germany, all are closed in Schaffhausen.
We know that all central stations in Switzerland have a buffet (station restaurant) which are open on Sundays.
We even get fresh "croissants".
A man at the table next to us is interested in our trip, suggests to cycle through Klettgau a region well known
for wine-growing.
Why is it so easy to cycle today? Is it we sniff the air of home? No, today is the first day we have a tail wind.
It feels like I get electrical support too also after more than 3000 kilometres headwind. (Daily average 20.3)
12 o'clock sharp we reach Waldshut and realize that the Germany tour gets to its end. That will be celebrated with
a good lunch and alcohol free beer. A glass of wine will be taken at home, because we have to go another 40 kilometres
to get home in Bremgarten.
Back home |
in Bremgarten |