Our cycling adventure continued on the fourth day, beginning with a hearty breakfast at Gasthaus Wimmer in Simbach am Inn, where we had spent the night. Energized and ready for the day’s journey, we set off on the fourth leg of our five-day tour, a route that promised to be both scenic and historically rich.
Departure from Simbach am Inn
Simbach am Inn, a charming town located along the banks of the Inn River, served as the perfect starting point. With full bellies and high spirits, we pedaled out of Simbach, crossing into Austria almost immediately. The transition from Germany to Austria was seamless, as the two countries share not only a border but also a deep cultural connection that we would experience throughout the day.
Passing Through Braunau am Inn
Our first significant stop was in Braunau am Inn, an Austrian town just a few kilometers from Simbach. Braunau is a town of historical importance, known as the birthplace of Adolf Hitler. However, its picturesque streets and beautifully preserved architecture tell a story much older and richer than its 20th-century infamy. The town, with its quaint charm and quiet streets, felt like a perfect blend of Austrian culture and history, providing us with a peaceful interlude before we continued our journey.
A Scenic Ride Through Austrian and German Border Towns
As we cycled onward, we found ourselves weaving in and out of both Austrian and German territories, passing through several small towns and villages that dot the border region. The landscape was a beautiful mix of rolling hills, lush green fields, and the ever-present river that guided our route. The rhythm of the ride, with its alternating stretches of tranquil countryside and vibrant town life, made for a day filled with both relaxation and adventure.
Lunch Break in Schärding
Around midday, we reached Schärding, an Austrian town known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture and colorful town square. Here, we took a well-deserved break and enjoyed a simple yet satisfying lunch. Schärding’s charm lies in its ability to combine historical grandeur with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The town square, with its pastel-colored buildings and lively cafes, was the perfect backdrop for our lunch break.
Passing Through Passau: A Meeting of Rivers
After lunch, we continued our journey toward Passau, a German city located at the confluence of three rivers: the Danube, the Inn, and the Ilz. As we approached Passau, the landscape opened up to reveal the majestic rivers, their waters merging in a spectacular display of natural beauty. We paused to take pictures from the riverbank, capturing the old city of Passau with its stunning architecture and the remarkable meeting point of the rivers. The sight was a reminder of the natural wonders that have shaped this region’s history and culture.
Arrival in Kasten, Upper Austria
With 85 kilometers behind us, we finally reached our destination for the day: Kasten in Upper Austria. The journey had been long but rewarding, and we were all eager to rest our weary legs. Our accommodation for the night was Gasthaus Donauthal, a cozy guesthouse nestled in the heart of the countryside. Here, we enjoyed a well-earned dinner, reflecting on the day’s ride and the beautiful sights we had encountered along the way.
Rest and Preparation for the Final Leg
As the day came to an end, we settled in at Gasthaus Donauthal, knowing that tomorrow would bring the final leg of our tour: the ride to Linz. With the sense of accomplishment from today’s journey still fresh, we drifted off to sleep, ready to gather our energy for the challenges and experiences that lay ahead.
Our fourth day on the cycling tour was a true highlight, filled with historical towns, stunning landscapes, and the ever-present companionship of the rivers that guide our route. With only one day left, we looked forward to what tomorrow would bring as we continued our adventure through this beautiful region.
-hector pascua
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