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Since several years cycling is the only kind of sport I do. But I`m not focusd on the sportive aspect. I am fascinated of nature and discovering the country.

I already did some bike trips through the Black Forest, to the Lake Constance and across the Swabian Mountains. They were very interesting but they all lasted only few days. I wanted to do a really big tour. I was always fascinated by rivers, their history and their way through many different cultures and regions. Furthermore cykling along a river isn`t as demanding as cykling across mountains. Considering this and the fact that I´m living in Stuttgart, the thought of a tour along the Danube did come to my mind easily.

After this idea crossed my mind, I couldn`t get rid of it. I got many informations and reports from the internet. The experiences of others encouraged me starting the tour instead of just dreaming of it.

So I started at July 28th, 2003 in Donaueschingen and reached my final destination Sulina at August 24th, 2003 after 3200 km and 28 days of travelling. Travelling back home by train was very adventurously too.

The whole journey was a wonderful adventure and a great experience. Of course there were good and bad days. But, as someone said, if you`re not starting you won`t  arrive.

The road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the road has gone,
And I must follow If I can,

Pursuing it with weary feet,
Until it joins some larger way,
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.

The road goes ever on and on
Out from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the road has gone,
Let others follow it who can!

Let them a journey new begin,
But I at last with weary feet
Will turn towards the lighted inn,
My evening-rest and sleep to meet.'
[from "Lord of the rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien]