HAT2304 - High Alpine Tour

https://youtu.be/W1i1iDUvEi0?si=qTYCZ-Fai9MVwc44

Guide city tour in Munich:   7 brave souls ventured out from a rainy and windy Erding and made their way (via the very fortunately now repaired S-Bahn) into the Bavarian capital of Munich. First stop was Isartor, the last City gate that remains intact. From there we walked along Tal and had a quick wander looking around the Viktualienmarkt and the Schrannenhalle. A loop through the Rindermarkt and then it was up the "Alte Peter" from where we had a great view and were able to watch the Glockenspiel with a completely free view. Along Kaufinger Strasse to St Micaels Church where there was a Catholic Mass in progress, so we did not overstay our welcome. Then around the corner to take a look at the Frauenkirche and the "Devils footprint". After a relaxed lunch of the finest bavarian beer and sasages we made our way to Odeonsplatz to view the Theatinerkirche, Feldherrenhalle and Residenz. A quick stroll through the Hofgarten then loop back to walk through a very crowded Hofbrauhaus where everyone was in full song - sadly we had no time to join them. Then back to Isartor to jump onto the S-Bahn and back to the Hotel right on time for the Welcome briefing   Welcome to another edition of the High Alpine Tour.   Imagine the thrill of the open road, the majestic peaks of the Alps as your backdrop, and the wind in your hair as you ride through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe. Welcome to the High Alpine Tour, an epic motorcycle journey that promises to be the adventure of a lifetime. This exhilarating expedition begins and ends in the charming town of Erding, Germany. Over the course of this journey, we will traverse through five countries: Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Liechtenstein. With a group of 15 eager guests and the guidance of two guides. Get your engines revving and your spirits soaring as you dive into the heart of the Alps on a route that promises stunning vistas, cultural immersion, and memories that will last a lifetime. Be prepared for another thriller ride through the Alps and the Dolomites    Your guides,   Lars an Tom.

With great anticipation, the participants embarked on a breathtaking motorcycle tour, the first day of riding took us from Erding to Lienz. The trip was an exciting adventure from start to finish. Riders started off with some anticipation as their new motorcycles gleamed under the overcast sky. The rain was to accompany us throughout the day, but it could not dampen our spirits.   Shortly after departure, we found ourselves in the charm of the Bavarian countryside. Picturesque villages and rolling hills formed an idyllic scenery that could have made every break a moment worth photographing, unfortunately we did not have the favor of the weather gods on our side.   Navigating the winding roads, riders were greeted by an exhilarating mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. Every bend brought a new vista, and the rain turned the Bavarian landscape into a mystical backdrop. The wet roads added an extra dose of excitement and demanded increased concentration and skill from the riders.   The first stop of the day was the medieval town of Wasserburg am Inn.   Although the iconic Grossglockner Road was not part of the trip today, fate took the riders through the Felbertauern Tunnel, which offered a unique passage through the heart of the mountains. As they exited the tunnel, the Austrian Alps stretched out before them in all their glory, a breathtaking sight that eclipsed any disappointment.   Remarkably, the rain did not dampen the good mood that had gripped the group. Laughter and camaraderie echoed through the helmets, while the first stories were exchanged at the rest stops. First impressions of the trip were a mixture of awe at the landscapes, excitement at having mastered the wet turns, and gratitude for the camaraderie that made the tour even more special.   Finally arriving in Lienz, the group was overcome with a sense of accomplishment. Rain-soaked clothes and disheveled hair were badges of honor from that first day of riding.

  The open road calls to all adventurous spirits, and our ride on Day 3 was no exception. Starting our day in the picturesque town of Lienz, we set out on an exhilarating journey that would lead us to the charming destination of Bozen. The day promised stunning landscapes, heart-pounding twists and turns, and of course, the unpredictable weather that comes with such a ride.    A Test of Nerves: The Gardena Pass   One of the undeniable highlights of our journey was the awe-inspiring Gardena Pass. As we navigated through this mountain pass, every twist and turn seemed to reveal a new layer of natural beauty. Towering peaks, lush valleys, and winding roads intertwined to create a mesmerizing tapestry that only nature can weave.    Chasing the Sun Through Cortina d’Ampezzo   Cortina d’Ampezzo, a name synonymous with Alpine beauty, welcomed us with open arms. This enchanting town nestled amidst the Dolomites is a true gem. The architecture seems seamlessly with the surrounding mountains. Quaint cafes and boutique shops added to the appeal of Cortina d’Ampezzo.   While our motorcycle journey was graced by the occasional rain, it was a far cry from the torrential downpour we faced yesterday. Mother Nature smiled upon us, allowing the sun to make its appearance a few times during the day.   Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating ride, an unexpected turn of events unfolded. Chris had lost his passport, which immediately escalated into a serious concern. With a mix of worry and determination, Chris began planning his visit to the embassy on the following day to resolve the situation.   Tom’s Unexpected Rescue Mission.. However, amidst the unfolding drama, a small miracle occurred. Tom went back to our first coffee stop where Chris had lost his passport..   But Tom being Tom, he couldn’t resist adding a touch of magic to the situation. During dinner that evening, Tom performed a magic trick turning his passport in to Chris'... . A touch of magic in the midst of our adventures, reminding us that unexpected twists often create the most memorable stories.   Conclusion: And so, Day 4 came to a close, filled with a mix of exhilaration, worry, and joy. It served as a reminder that every journey is laced with its own surprises and that new friends can become true heroes in moments of difficulty. From breathtaking mountain passes to lost passports and magic tricks, the day encapsulated the essence of adventure – the unpredictable and the unforgettable.   So, here’s to the road less traveled, the rain that brings clarity, and the sun that warms us up. Today was a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination.  

Greetings, fellow riders and wanderers! Welcome back to our daily chronicles of the motorcycle trip. Today's journey, on Day 4, took us on a loop through the enchanting passes surrounding Bozen. With the sun as our guide and the wind in our hair, we embarked on a day filled with two distinct flavors of adventure – one for the speed demons and another for those who relish in the beauty of the moment.   Dividing the Road: Speed and Scenic Beauty   As the morning sun cast its glow on Bozen, we gathered in anticipation for a unique twist in our journey – a division into two groups. The allure of speed and the allure of scenery led to the formation of the Faster Group and the Scenic Squad. It was a day to cater to every rider's desires, whether it was the thrill of rapid twists or the joy of immersing oneself in nature's artwork.   The Faster Group: Roaring Through the Passes   Led by our resident speed maestro, Tom, the Faster Group ignited their engines. The roar of engines harmonized with the pulse of adrenaline as they conquered Passo della Mendola, Penegal, and other thrilling stretches. Each twist of the road brought forth a symphony of acceleration and precision.   The Scenic Squad: Embracing Nature's Palette   For those of us in the Scenic Squad, led by Lars, the day was all about soaking in the surrounding beauty. We reveled in the panoramic vistas that unfolded before us. The allure of Passo della Mendola, the serene pause at Hotel Monte Penegal, and the meandering paths through charming villages like Ronzone and Fondo were all part of our journey. With every turn, we discovered new facets of nature's masterpiece.   Reunion and Reflections   As the sun began its descent, both groups converged at our day's final destination – Collalbo. The stories shared were as diverse as the experiences themselves. The Faster Group recounted heart-pounding accelerations and hairpin turns, while the Scenic Squad painted vivid pictures of idyllic landscapes. Yet, despite the varied paths we chose, a common thread of camaraderie with the stories.   A Day to Remember   And so, Day 4 of our journey came to a close, leaving us with memories as diverse as the roads we rode. From the exhilarating pursuit of speed to the tranquil embrace of nature's beauty, today reminded us that every rider's journey is a unique narrative. As we rest our engines for the night, we anticipate the adventures Day 5 will bring – a new chapter in our shared expedition.   Ride on, explorers, and stay tuned for the next chapter of our motorcycle odyssey!  

The fourth day of our motorcycle adventure through the high Alpine passes dawned with anticipation and excitement. This was the day for the brave-hearted riders, a day that would take us through some of the most challenging and awe-inspiring routes in the Alps. Starting Point: Bolzano We kicked off our day in the picturesque town of Bolzano, a perfect launchpad for our Alpine journey. With our engines humming and spirits high, we set out on our adventure. A Scenic Ride Through Valleys: Our route led us through the breathtaking Adige and Vinschgau Valleys. The winding roads were flanked by lush greenery, and the soothing sound of the Adige River accompanied our ride. Coffee Break in Glurns: Our first stop for the day was the charming medieval town of Glurns. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, this town provided a perfect backdrop for a much-needed coffee break. The cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings offered a glimpse into history. The Stelvio Pass: Queen of All Passes: The highlight of our day awaited - the Stelvio Pass. This legendary mountain pass is known for its 48 hairpin bends on the northern side and its challenging ascents. As we climbed higher into the heavens, the views became increasingly majestic, with snow-capped peaks and endless horizons.   Lunch at Bruno's Sausage Stand: Our stomachs rumbling from the adrenaline, we stopped for lunch at the legendary Bruno's Sausage Stand. This roadside gem served up delicious sausages, the perfect fuel for our adventure ahead. Conquering the Gavia Pass: Our next challenge was the Gavia Pass. This pass is famous for its rugged and narrow roads. The Gavia Pass is a ride for the brave-hearted. It’s a place where motorcyclists come to test their mettle, to push their limits, and to experience the thrill of conquering one of the most challenging roads in the world. The Gavia Pass is a rider’s dream and a test of courage. As we began our ascent, the thrill of the ride was palpable. The road ahead was anything but ordinary; it was a winding ribbon of asphalt that clung to the mountainside, with rough cliffs on one side and sheer drops on the other. What sets the Gavia Pass apart is its raw, untouched beauty. But with that beauty comes a lack of guardrails that can be unnerving to some. There is no room for error on this narrow road. Each twist and turn demands absolute focus and precision. It was a moment of connection with nature amidst our challenging journey.  Along the way down, we were fortunate to spot some capricorns, These elusive mountain-dwelling creatures, with their distinctive curved horns, added a touch of wildness to our adventure. Watching them lick the salt used to clear the roads from the previous winter’s snow was a reminder that we were visitors in their domain. Coffee and Go: Safely arrived at the bottom it was time for a quick coffe stop before heading further on our final ascent. Bernina Pass: The Grand Finale: The Bernina Pass awaited us with its glacial beauty. The pass, with its sweeping curves and breathtaking panoramas, was the perfect climax to our Alpine adventure.   Arrival in Pontresina: As we descended from the Bernina Pass, the charming village of Pontresina welcomed us with open arms. Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, Pontresina was the ideal destination to conclude our day of exhilarating riding. The fourth day of our motorcycle adventure through the high Alpine passes was a journey of courage, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. From the winding roads of the valleys to the majestic Stelvio, the rugged Gavia, and the glacial beauty of Bernina, it was a day that tested our mettle and rewarded us with memories to last a lifetime. Pontresina, with its Alpine charm, marked the perfect end to this epic ride through the high Alps.

Day 5: Alpine Wonders and Whispers of History   Greetings, fellow riders and adventure enthusiasts! Day 5 of our motorcycle expedition unfolded with a promise of Alpine grandeur and whispers of history. Our route from Pontresina to Warth, Austria, was a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes and intriguing stories. Let's dive into the highlights of the day:   A Glimpse of Chur: Switzerland's Oldest Town: Our journey began with a scenic ride through the Albula mountain pass. The mesmerizing twists and turns of this route offered us a taste of Swiss mountain beauty. But, before we crossed into Liechtenstein and Austria, we passed through Chur, Switzerland's oldest town. Chur's history stretches back over 5000 years.   Vaduz: A Royal Pause: As we ventured into Liechtenstein, we made a stop in Vaduz, the principality's capital. Here, we captured the picturesque Vaduz Castle, the residence of the country's prince, during a very short pricture break.    Liechtenstein: From Vienna's Wealth to Independence: As we learned in the morning  the principality's origins can be traced back to the Liechtenstein family in Vienna. Their strategic acquisitions paved the way for the formation of Liechtenstein in 1716. It wasn't until the Treaty of Vienna in 1815 that Liechtenstein was officially recognized as an independent country.   Furkajoch: Another Alpine Gem: Our route also took us over the scenic Furkajoch pass, where we savored the beauty of the Alps once more. Each curve and elevation change better than the last.    Evening Stories and Cocktails in Warth: As the day wound down, we arrived at our beautiful hotel in Warth. Here, in the tranquil embrace of the Austrian Alps, we shared stories of our adventures over cocktails and wine. Tom told us tales of some of his tours, including a memorable scooter adventure where he was glad to wear proper protective clothing to protect certain parts of his body from getting frostbite..    And so, Day 5 concluded, leaving us with the serenity of the Alpine night. As we prepared for the adventures that Day 6 would bring, our hearts brimmed with gratitude for the memorable journey so far. Stay tuned for the next chapter of our two-wheeled odyssey!   Ride on, explorers, and embrace the road ahead!

Concluding an Epic Adventure: Exploring the Lechtal to Linderhof on Two Wheels. The final day of our high alpine motorcycle adventure dawned, and while it marked the end of our incredible journey, it promised to be a day filled with unforgettable experiences. From our remote hotel in Warth, nestled in the heart of nowhere, we embarked on a ride that would lead us through stunning landscapes, historical treasures, and the thrill of the Autobahn. Down the Lechtal to Ettal: We bid farewell to Warth, a place that had become our sanctuary amidst the mountains, and descended through the Lechtal Valley. The road led us to Ettal, a charming village with a rich history. Namlos Tal: A Rider's Delight: Our first highlight of the day awaited - the Namlos Tal. While not in high altitude, this road offered a pure delight for riders. Its winding curves and picturesque scenery made every twist of the throttle an exhilarating pleasure. Plansee: A Gift from the Ice Age: Our journey continued to the beautiful Plansee, a remnant from the last ice age. This pristine lake has become a beloved leisure destination, offering a myriad of water sports for all to enjoy. Castle Linderhof: King Ludwig's Hidden Gem: Our second highlight of the day lay hidden near the Plansee - Castle Linderhof. This may be King Ludwig's smallest castle, but it held a special place in his heart, being the one he spent the most time in. A guided visit allowed us to step back in time to Bavaria's most extravagant construction era. The Edelweiss Picnic by Lake Plansee: Afterward, we returned to Lake Plansee, where Lars, our fellow adventurer, awaited us with the famous Edelweiss picnic. This lakeside meal was a fitting feast to refuel us for the journey ahead. Autobahn Adventure: No Speed Limit: Our route then led us to the Autobahn, a legendary stretch known for its no speed limit. As we accelerated, the wind rushing past, it was a moment of exhilaration and freedom. Bavarian Beergarden in Aying: Before reaching our final destination in Erding, we made a stop in Aying. Here, in a traditional Bavarian beer garden, we savored the local culture, cuisine, and camaraderie. Conclusion: An Unforgettable Week: As we rolled into Erding, the place where our journey had begun, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible week we had shared. It had been a week of jaw-dropping landscapes, thrilling routes, and stories that would last a lifetime. Our adventure through high alpine passes and hidden gems had not only pushed our boundaries as riders but had also enriched our souls. Each day had been a new chapter, and our final day was the perfect closing note to this epic tale of exploration and camaraderie. The memories we had created, the friendships forged, and the landscapes we had witnessed would stay with us for a very long time. As we parked our motorcycles, it was with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the beauty of the world we had discovered together.