Day 4, the second half

So for those bike riders who might be reading this and wondering about the short distances, it is much different on 1) very heavy bikes 2) various terrains from nice asphalt to rocks and rivers and 3) with three kids. #1 is the biggest influencer. I am amazed when I try to lift my bike that I'm going 10 mph any time at all.

So, as we set out today on our 30k goal ride to the town of Schwangau, once again, I'm thinking, this won't take more than 2 hours. We rolled out at noon or so and after a flat, a forgotten item at the hotel, a lunch break, hills, gravel, a few streams and a river, we arrived at our destination at 6pm.

It is hard to find the words to describe the scenery. Gorgeous, breathtaking, 'sound-of-music-like' almost do it justice. We went from forrest of 100 foot pines to rolling lush green valleys with the alps in the distance. Lucas said at one point 'so I don't use the word beautiful very much, but man, that is beautiful.'. I expected Gandolf to come by or to at least see a Hobbit in this Shire-like landscape. We got none of that, but plenty of other bikers and the occasional local in Lederhosen. Had this been a drinking tour, we could have spent time in a beer garden every hour or so.

Once again, and Dad, you'll be happy, we were on 99% trails. We passed a cow who had just had a calf and acres and acres of purple, white and yellow wild flowers.

Approaching Schwangau, we noticed a castle in the distance - ah, yes, Neueschwanstein! The one we saw is actually just down the road from the famous Neueschwanstein, but just as impressive. We are taking the kids to one or both tomorrow. We lucked out and found a 2 bedroom hotel room after a few minutes of concern after the first 4 hotels we checked with were full. Once again, we have eaten well and are going to sleep tight tonight.


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