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Ceri: In contrast to our industrial approach cycling into Bratislava, leaving was a breeze cycling back over the river straight onto leafy cycle path with vast wetlands next to us. This section of the Danube used to flood horrendously, so they built dams and a huge 17km canal high above the usual river bed to control the river. The excavation took 20 years, and it also created wetlands full of migratory birds and other species. And towards the end of this was an absolutely stunning art gallery in which we met an adventurous couple, Andrew and Barbara, from the Lake District and enjoyed a long coffee with them. As we cycled away, wished we’d exchanged details, so if you know them, let us know! Ah well. What a glorious cycle ride to start the day.
But the day heated up to 29degC and the long cycle path along the exposed banks of the canal became too hot. Desperate for shade and a picnic stop, we cycled down off the high canal path onto the road below to a shady drive. Only when we were munching into our sandwiches did we realise the strange smell around us was a sewage plant right next to us. Not all our picnics can be in perfect locations, but the cool shade was worth the unwanted aroma!
Soon after we cycled across yet another dam, this time with a fascinating visitors centre, where we enjoyed a comprehensive video about controlling the river, generating hydroelectric power and establishing successful wetlands.
Then on to our destination where we’ve just spent a fun evening with 2 old friends cycling together, one Australian and the other German. We meet such interesting people
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