Tour de Schwiiz 2006

10-15 July 2006

Today was the end of the Tour de Schwiiz. On Monday morning we met in Rorschach to start our six day journey along the 'Seen-Route #9' to Vevey. The weather was perfect with lots of sun and little rain. Three nights we stayed in a 'Schlaf-im-Stroh!', one night in a caravan, and one night in a hostel. It was mandatory to swim in most of the lakes we passed.

The route was much more difficult than the Mittelland Route #5 that we did last year. This tour went over the Etzel Pass, the Bruenig Passhoehe, and through Zweisimmen. The climbs wore us out, but I enjoyed the challenge and the rewarding scenery that met us at the top. I was especially impressed with Vaud where I had not been before with the bike. Next year we've tentatively decided on the North-South #3 route, which includes a huge climb over the St. Gotthard Pass. I'm already excited.

The end of this tour also marks the end of my cycling sabbatical. I had a fantastic six weeks and I'm now looking forward to returning back to my normal life. These trips have made me realize how much I love cycling, but for now I will take a break from touring and get back into mountain biking. A good start might be the Hoher Kasten or Kamor this weekend. It should be a lot easier without that trailer!

(photos | google earth)