July 26, 2024
To Konstanz, Germany
Winterthur was never meant to be a long-term thing, more a place to pass through - a one-night stand, if you will - on our way to Konstanz and other pretty parts of Germany. However, sitting at an outdoor restaurant table last night with Heineken and vege wrap at the ready, I was willing to reconsider the relationship. (I may have watched more than one rom-com on those interminable flights. It's a good thing that I thought better of re-watching Pride and Prejudice . . .that could've sent me over the edge.)
It was a lovely evening and we were entertained while eating by a Swiss Salvation Army youth choir and band. And by an audience more than keen to get into the spirit of things. The wee toddler with dummy in mouth was giving it her all.
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On reflection, it was not just Winterthur. This could have been one of any European towns we've strolled through in the past where evening musical events seem to spring up in our vicinity. The festive atmosphere and outdoor dining makes for excellent people-watching; another reason to love visiting Europe.
It's back to business this morning though. First task for both of us is to properly pack our panniers and bags after yesterday's rushed job, making sure that what we need while riding is stashed at hand, water bottles filled, Jetboil armed with gas . . .you know the drill. Shortly after 9, well-breakfasted and packed to perfection, we're out of our room and ready to ride.
Just like yesterday, the route takes us on bike paths and bike lanes - and occasional unmarked roads - through that ever so Swiss mix of arable farmland, light industrial zones and town centres. We make it to Frauenfeld for morning coffee and use the time to plot a route directly to the Rhine, rather than cutting through even MORE farmland, light industrial zones and . . .
Decision made, we head directly to the Rhine, taking the well-signposted Route 60. There's quite a substantial hill on this new route. But it's Switzerland, I tell myself; it had to happen. And the good part, the descent, has an extra special treat: our first view of the Rhine.
Lunch is a 'pinch me' moment. We're seated in the shade of a big old tree right on the river, watching people (again!) play on and in the water and munching on breakfast spoils. Perfection. . . if only we had bought the right gas canister this morning!
The hot cuppa is off the menu so we take to the trail and enjoy the last 15 km or so to Konstanz. It's a shock, though, to see the huge numbers of other bike tourers heading towards us. We hadn't really thought about this route being the equivalent of State Highway 1 back home. Thankfully without incident, we make to to the Ibis in the full heat of the afternoon sun . . and look forward to doing not a lot for the rest of the day.
See you tomorrow.
And here's a wee clip from Tour Leader, who's dusted off his GoPro for this trip and promises to contribute more.
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4 months ago
We try to avoid Auckland (sorry!) but would love to catch up with you two too. If you're ever in the top of the South ....
robyn.richards6gmail.com
4 months ago
Today's ride: 55 km (34 miles)
Total: 76 km (47 miles)
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