Andernach

The last 3 days have been dedicated to a severe exercise regime given the bachanalian depths of my diet the last few weeks. Johannes and I actually road 80 kilometers yesterday in a trip from his home in Niederbachem to Andernach. There is a very well maintained trail the entire way with lots of cafes and small towns along the way to keep one well fed and distracted from the pain in one's legs. The highlight however is the Rhine itself as it surges through the Sievengebirge mountain range creating dramatic landscapes dotted with castles and massive cathedrals at every turn.

Along the way there also is a scene of 20th century importance at the former bridge, and now museum at Remagen. In March of 1945 US troops took this bridge on their way to Berlin. Knowing the Soviets were on a tear from the East the Allies needed to quickly cross the Rhine (not an easy task as I have learned having dipped into the torrent 10 times in the last week-and I didn't have to traverse the deluge with tanks!) and advance to the last bastion of NAZI power. Remagen was the only place left to cross given the Germans had destroyed the other bridges as the Allies entered Germany. Hitler was outraged at this strategic loss and executed 4 local commanders who were in control of Remagen.

Andernach is also an interesting place. It's an old medieval city with new housing and a shopping/tourist center incorporated into the city gate and center. Quite a dramtic view as you descend the trail from the North.

Today more biking and museums in Bonn.

Tonight the loser game. I guess we will have to watch given we are in Germany.