Munich→Venice Day 3 to Innsbruck

Nathan’s stats: 32.47km, 100m climbing, 1:46 riding time

We had a half day of riding today with no climbing to speak of, so we had a late start, just before 10am. We rode bike paths along the river and through corn and barley fields with views up to the tall peaks.

Almost before we knew it we were pulling up to a swimming area at a lake, in the outskirts of Innsbruck. It was quite warm so a swim was just what the doctor ordered. We hung out for maybe 3 hours, as check-in at the hotel didn’t start until 3pm.

The water was cool but not cold and it was really relaxing, sitting on the grass in shade, and later having drinks at the little bar by the lake. Finally it was time to go and we cycled the last little bit, arriving just before 3. The hotel was right downtown, next to the entrance of the old town. It’s ultramodern and new.

After some relaxation we met at 5pm for a walking tour. A pretty funny local guide gave us radios and earpieces so we could hear him even if he was a ways away. He took us around for a couple of hours, talking and telling jokes pretty much constantly.

We saw lots of historical stuff, but the best was last: the cathedral. It was incredible, a truly amazing space. Come here and see it!

Dinner was in the hotel restaurant, and we really enjoyed sitting with Jim and Scott. A bunch of us went out for gelato after, second dessert, as is just about required on bike tours. All in all it was a nice day, light on the cycling.