After the race last Sunday, I headed north to Darmstadt to see my grandparents. I received a bike map of the area from a friend so I could explore the area I grew up in.
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Bike map with trails wherever you go |
I had somewhat an idea where to go but otherwise just decided to ride wherever it looks best. Right from the start I was surprised by the great network of trails the area had to offer. The condition of the trails were excellent so I could ride as fast or slow as I wanted.
In addition to the bike map, signs displayed riding routes and distances that could be easily followed. The bike map was only necessary if I wanted to know which number a certain route was. I just had to make I don’t ride outside the map.
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Green bike signs everywhere with distances |
Following along the countryside in sunny clear weather I came across a sign for a castle – Alsbacher Schloss. I decided to climb up to the castle but apparently followed the way for pedestrians because suddenly I found myself in the middle of a vineyard.
After a while a found the right way up to the castle.
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First through the small town… |
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…then through the forest |
The entrance of the castle was all cobbles. Respect to all racers who are racing on that for miles and miles.
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Cobbles at the entrance and the courtyard |
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View from the courtyard |
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Way up the tower |
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View from the tower |
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Bike came along |
After the spontaneous sightseeing tour, I followed randomly the bike signs to new direction. After a while I got hungry but no supermarket was in sight. However, I came across a little strawberry stand and bargained with the lady for some strawberries, which were picked just down the street.
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Sweet strawberries from a stand |
The road took me further up a ridge where I had an incredible view over fields, neighboring towns and farms.
The strawberries didn’t last long so arising hunger made me decide to turn home. I called my grandmother that I am more than ready for lunch and headed home on some dirt and paved roads. Back home, I decided that German cuisine hits the spot as recovery food.