The roads in the Mühlviertel are famously winding – something we’ve long since gotten used to.
And yet, this time the route still manages to surprise us with extravagant curves and a steady rhythm of ups and downs, leading us all the way to Schlögen, where we want to admire the striking Danube loop up close.
Once in Schlögen, we split up: some of us settle into the shade of a cozy tavern to recover from the hot ride, while the others tackle the steep, twisty climb up to the small parking lot above the river bend. From there, the path continues on foot toward the viewing platform – optimistic at first, but underestimating the challenge a little.
In short:
First uphill – “Ah, lovely, some exercise!”
Then downhill – “Phew, finally!”
Then uphill again – “OMG…”
And at last, downhill once more.But just when relief sets in, a sign appears: “Danube Loop – 300 meters.”
THREE HUNDRED METERS?! Yes, as the crow flies. Plus a few extra vertical meters.
Apparently, the route planner thought: “If we’re going to do loops, then let’s do them properly!”
The view makes it all worthwhile, and in the end, the 20-minute hike wasn’t that bad. Still, motorcycle gear isn’t exactly designed for hiking comfort.
Back at the bikes, we chat with a group from Graz before riding back down into Schlögen. There, we cool off once more in the shade before continuing: first along the Danube, then across it, into the rolling hills, until we meet the river again near Obermühl. An old grain storage building stands out here, right next to the ferry.
We wait until the boat docks, then the ferryman packs us on board like sardines. Even Sabine’s car fits – she’s been following us the whole way by car and only occasionally loses sight of us for a moment.
The crossing brings a welcome breeze, and afterwards the ride continues in the shade, along and above the Danube, until we cross it once more and head toward Bad Leonfelden. There, it’s time for refueling, ice cream, and – back at the hotel – a dip in the pool to cool down.
After such a virtuous hike, a dessert at dinner is more than deserved as the crowning finale. Tomorrow, we’ll scatter in all directions again – but these were wonderful days together, and the next trip is already on the horizon.