Day 1 Longuich to Bernkastel- Kues (and the evening before) - 31 miles

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Day 9 Weissenburg to Regensburg - 73 Miles

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A few stiff climbs, particularly a sharp initial ascent out of Weissenburg. We departed knowing we had a longer day plus hills... ...but by this time we were veterans of the road. Two Bavarian Hunds, often mistaken for Alpacas. Here we see the white and brown varieties. After the purported 18% climb, we had fine views of the valley below... ...and once up on the plain, numerous wind turbines. The stork had delivered. Fields alternated with corn, asparagus left to " fern ou t'', hops, brassicas but few vines. Here is a stubble field from presumed wheat (please correct me if I'm wrong!). This stone is the geographical middle point of Bavaria. Many tree-lined forest paths and roads. "Robert (red gilet), please just move over to the middle for the photoshot please!" This appeared like a huge maypole, festooned with coats of arms. Lunchtime... ...facing the main square. ...as we sett...
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Day 6 Kloster Schöntal to Rothenburg - 45 miles

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Our morning briefing promises a shorter day, cycling out of Schöntal following the River Jagst... ...a couple of stiff climbs then undulating terrain until we reach our destination, Rothenberg, a fortified medieval town. The morning was cooler at a pleasant 24 'C. Brew stop at 13 miles... ...lunch at 29 miles, a climb up to Bartenstein (or Beard Stone). The morning was virtually traffic free, following an outstanding quality, undulating, meandering cycle path. Although mostly rural farm land, we would also pass by minor industrial estates, a green cycle sign marking the way. The River Jagst. Here my rudimentary O'level German was tested to the limit as a local quizzed me about our journey. Like the scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz, a voice from the field called me... ...a weird apparition on a hay-bail! Sumptuous, rolling fields... ...and a fairytale church. Chopped wood was meticulously stacked... ...villages beautifully kept...
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Day 7 Rothenburg - relaxing day

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Rothenburg ob der Tauber (above the Tauber river), to give it its full name. There are other Rothenburg's in Germany. The Röder Gate, one of five medieval gates surrounding the city. Here we climbed up onto the covered ramparts and circumnavigated most of the city, dropping to ground level to pick up the wall a little later. Depending on your route, it's just under two miles to follow the wall. Although in the shade, it was still in the high 20s, but great views both inwards and outwards. Individuals and firms provided sponsorship... ...for restoration of the wall following WWII bombing. Although not so very busy, I had to wait a while to capture this decorative pattern. These "beaver-tail" roofing tiles appeared to be standard. A pastel view from the ramparts. Above - A vestibule within t he Spital Bastion fortification (~1586). It had a unique figure of eight design with two courtyards.  " Peace to those who enter,...
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