From the Danube via Zagreb to the Adriatic Sea

Setting off from the enchanting city of Vienna, I eagerly pedaled towards Bratislava, a mere 66 kilometers away. Bratislava welcomed me with its charm, complemented by delightful local beers and cuisine. Note to self: when in Slovakia, don’t assume the need for currency exchange – they use the Euro! A faux pas quickly forgiven as I immersed myself in the rich culture of this picturesque city.

Leaving Bratislava behind, I ventured towards Györ, a city known not only for its architectural beauty but also for hosting the world’s best women’s handball team. Madleen, my travel companion, insisted we attend a match, and I was treated to an unforgettable victory. Györ, a city that goes beyond its industrial fame with Audi, offers surprises at every turn.

A challenging day awaited us as we cycled from Györ to Lendava, covering 142 kilometers of diverse landscapes. The highlight, however, was the vintage train journey from Lendava, adding a touch of nostalgia to our adventure.

NOT RIDDEN!

Due to time pressure, we did not cycle this part. Instead, we took the train from Zalaegerszeg to Rédics. It was no problem to take the bikes on the train. The train takes about an hour.

The road to Zagreb presented us with strong headwinds, but the stunning Croatian landscapes made it all worthwhile. Taking a day off in Zagreb, Madleen and I immersed ourselves in a city tour, discovering its vibrant street art scene.

Pedaling through picturesque landscapes, we crossed the border through a small gate in a fence, adding a sense of adventure to our journey. Ljubljana, reminiscent of Freiburg, captivated us with its charm and delectable cuisine.

NOT RIDDEN!

Due to time pressure, we did not cycle this part. Instead, we took the train from Trebnje to Ljubliana. It was no problem to take the bikes on the train. The train takes about an hour.

Tackling the southern foothills of the Alps, the day’s ride was strenuous but rewarded us with breathtaking views. Monfalcone may not be Italy’s crown jewel, but a brief stay was sufficient before continuing our journey.

With a brisk pace and the threat of impending rain, we raced to Quarto D’Altino, reaching speeds of almost 27km/h with our loaded bikes. An early start allowed us to explore the town’s local water spot, where the unexpected discovery of GANTER beer added an extra layer of excitement.