So we loaded up our paniers, headed out of Freiburg and got as far as Neuenburg (just over 50 kms of riding). It was mostly flat, and the bike paths took us though magnificient agricultural lands, into ancient and beautiful villages, with names like Betberg, Opfingen, Bad Krozingen, etc (St Ilgen was our favorite).
Betberg winery
St Ilgen church
St Ilgen church
For both of us, it was the first time we rode with loaded paniers, and we found it a bit slower than anticipated, averaging only 17 kms/hour. We think we can do much better and will have plenty of time to improve. The weather was quite stormy, but barely rained on us. The bikes paths were numerous, and finding our way from village to village meant stopping every 2-3 kms, getting in the way of any momentum. Not surprisingly, we got along well, supporting each other when needed.
Neuenburg Platz
- Weather (B-)
- Landscape (B+)
- Cycling challenge (easy)
- Physical and emotional condition (B-; Alice brought our grade down with sore legs)
- Relationship (A+; very supportive of each other)
- Accomodations (B)
- Food (B-; good European fare, but all carbs!)
- Other people (na)
- Entertainment (na)
Overall grade - B-
We also thought we should note our lesson of the day. Today, in our efforts to put some kms behind us, we neglected to stop at the numerous small wineries along the way. Never will we see any of these wines in any store and we missed our chance. So the lesson is to pay less attention to the kms and more to the wine!
It is true we are educators and cannot resist lessons or grading...even on vacation...
Tomorrow, we head to Basel Switzerland (only 30 kms). Once there we will decide whether we continue on the Swiss side or cross over to France.
Cheers.
Peter (and Alice)
"pay less attention to the kms and more attention to the wine!"
ReplyDeleteHere here!! ... it is all about the journey, not the destination.
It is so cool that you are making up your route as you go - "continue on the Swiss side or cross over to France?" - love it!
I am just catching up on your posts and have some suggestions for your "new ideas" section:
1. Take photos of the labels of the wines you like, that way you can search them out later. Same thing for foods if you buy them at the store and they have a label. Alice and I did this for the wine we had in Spain at the restaurant in Malaga. This is where we discovered Rioja that 2002 was the best year for that wine. Even if you dont find the exact wine when you get back, you will have the type and year for future purchases.
2. When you get to a new place, take turns leading each other by the hand while one person has their eyes closed. It is incredible to sharpen your smell and hearing senses and be fully trusting of the person who is guiding you. The person wtih the closed eyes could share what they are sensing, which will bring new dimensions to the walk. Very connecting for both.
3. Take 2 hours to go your separate ways in a new town. Make a point of starting a conversation with someone and test your "we dont speak the same language" communication skills. Buy something yummy to eat while you are out, and then share your stories and your fare under at tree or outside somewhere.
Anyway, enough rambling from this side of the planet. So glad you are having fun!
Thinking of you both - stay safe!
hugs,
san
Nice. I remember Karen Morris leading me around Guelph blind years ago and I loved it.
ReplyDeleteNow we have new inspiration. Not only will we bring forth Karen's spirit when it is time to meet new people, we will also think of you. Thanks and hugs
Peter (and Alice)