Sideways on

The good news is that I am off again- and with Günter for company. The objective is to head east and hope that this is feasible given the continued strong northerlies. Also good news is the excellent surface quality of the gravel road (to hold firm against the wind). Less good is that its cold, draughty and jolly hard work.

A major challenge on todays route is a 10km leg where we have to head north instead of east - dead into the wind. Its also uphill. Its not just me who is suddenly blown sideways across the road or simply brought to a standstill. Its exhausting.

The landscape is empty and wild and reminiscent of scotland. There are dustings of snow on all the hills and we are easily chilled despite many layers. We could so do with finding a tea shop to warm up and be in shelter. But there is absolutely nothing here.

Lunchtime sees us manage to hide in the nook of the church porch, where Günter produces a very welcome and much needed hot tea. Its so good to have cheery company on this challenging day.
On we go, sideways into the wind, on the gravel, until I find I am totally out of batteries. Then the question is where to stop to be a little out of the wind. Günter goes on a search and eventually we find a small grassy hollow not far from a pretty river “canyon” and turn in for the night.Read more