Stage 9 – Bad Gastein to Villach 95km (18-May-2015)

A long day in the saddle today; bitterly cold with a constant drizzle that only Europe can serve up. Not quite what I had in mind on my birthday but worth it all the same. That old adage, what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger…. you learn a lot about yourself on days like this.

I was the first one at breakfast, stuck to my routine of making sandwiches to take with me along with some snacks, and then have a leisurely breakfast.

First up was a 5km ride to Böckstein, in bitterly cold weather, all uphill of course to grab the train that takes cars, motorbikes and bicycles through the Tauern tunnel to Mallnitz; departs 20 past the hour. Took the opportunity to get take some photos and one taken off me at the station.

On arrival at Mallnitz, it’s all downhill, starting with a steep descent of approximately 500m through a long and winding road; hope these 2 photos capture the scenery which was quite breathtaking as most of Austria is. 

By the time I got down, the drizzle had settled in and now it was just a grind, with occasional stops to talk to Ursula and read the many birthday wishes from family and friends. The route R1 which is clearly signposted all the way to Villach is clearly signposted

is one of the best bike paths that I have experienced; just a shame about the weather. It runs through the valley with steep mountains on either side, today mostly covered with low clouds. After about 54km, the R1 runs parallel to the River Drau until you get into Villach where I am staying in a lovely guesthouse.

For dinner went across the road to a Pizzaria where I had a Risotto Funghi washed down with the holy water of course. I asked the young lady serving me if they had any cakes, as I wanted to celebrate my birthday. She said that they didn’t and the next I know after dinner is a lovely surprise as can been seen in the photo below.

Don’t know what tomorrow will bring; am riding to Italy first before entering Slovenia.