FLAT COUNTRY TO BIG CITY

SHEEP COUNTRY

The next day my ride is under clouds but without rain. I’m on an exclusive bike path most of the way. The first part is through sheep country where there are more gates to open and close to keep the sheep in their areas, some on public right of way with portable fences. There is lots of sheep dung on the path to dodge! At times, I am gently maneuvering around the sheep so I don’t startle them. I see horses, geese, swans, a hawk and… more sheep. My special treat is at noon when I find a bakery and enjoy seasonal plum cake with a coffee.

BOATS & MORE BOATS

After cake, the route continues with a gorgeous forest ride. The path then leads to Blankenese, a ritzy seaside resort where my route takes me past many large, beautiful historic homes. This opens up to a wide tree lined path with lots of people walking their dogs, biking or taking a leisurely stroll. Across the river, I see an airbus and watch it take off with no noise on what must be a very short runway.

Leading into Hamburg is an endless parade of different size and color boats. I keep an eye out and find another enticing bakery and this one has one of my favorites - poppy seed cake which I enjoy with coffee. Properly refreshed, I journey on and farther down is a huge three masted sail boat. If you feel daring, you can climb up the masts on Saturdays.

It just amazes me that I can get all the way to downtown Hamburg along the river on a bike path! Across the street and up a steep hill is the youth hostel. After 60 kilometers, I’m ready to stop. This time there is room in the inn and I get a bed in a shared room with three people.

I am ready for some solitude after the city…