An inconvenient triathlon

The inclusive breakfast was more than adequate and we lingered a little before checking out, noting we had a day of climbing ahead of us. We headed into the town centre to find a bakery.  Leaving the town, Gars castle, once used as a royal residence, and one of the oldest Babenberg fortifications, was clearly visible above the river. Now partially restored, its inner courtyard is used for open air opera performances. 

On reaching Rosenberg, we had a choice of two routes. Whilst considering the best option, we admired Rosenberg Castle, renowned for its rose gardens, and especially the Rosenberg climbing rose.  

Our decision to remain on route 8 turned out to be a wise one.  Though longer, it was a less steep climb up to Altenberg with its decorative lion.  A little further on we found a lovely spot at Messern for morning tea with new park benches and a handy drinking fountain.  

A couple of long, steady climbs followed and soon after reaching the top we stopped at Geras for lunch in a park on the edge of the river which offered popular swimming facilities.  There were a few park benches stacked in a corner and we positioned one in the shade for our picnic lunch, watching the families enjoying a relaxing Saturday afternoon.  

At Kottaun, we found our route blocked by a fire truck and then a barrier and G, who arrived first, was told that we had to detour along a dirt road. This took us to Langau where we hoped to regain our route.  As we approached the town, we saw signs advertising a triathlon and our route was again blocked with signs and another fire truck.  Simon sought some advice from a fireman and he pointed out the alternative route which was fortunately along a road which made for quicker cycling. 

We turned onto the EV13 and continued to the border with Czechia, our sixth country for the tour.  After bypassing Safov, we were able to return to our original route and cycled through open farmland to our destination of Vranov nad Dyji.  We passed the entrance to Chateau Vranov and descended into the town centre. 

The owners of the Airbnb were heading out as we arrived, and fortunately their daughter was able to translate as we parked our bikes and gained access to the apartment which turned out to have lovely views across the River Thaya and up to Chateau Vranov.

Not having any Czechia currency, we decided to eat in as reviews had indicated that the local restaurants were cash only. We bought some supplies from the nearby supermarket which we knew took card.  We enjoyed our pre-dinner drinks and chips in the garden on the banks of the river before returning to the apartment for a dinner of meatballs and spaghetti accompanied by some excellent Austrian wine from the Wachau valley.  

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