In August 2025 I embarked on an 11‑day solo adventure covering ≈ 1 100 km and ≈ 10 000 m of positive elevation gain. The route spanned six countries—Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and Belgium—starting in Como, Italy and finishing in Brussels, Belgium. Daily legs ranged from 80 km to 120 km, with a rest day in Saverne, France to recover and explore the historic town.
Why I Started
Passion for endurance sports – cycling long distances pushes my physical limits and offers a meditative rhythm.
Desire to explore – traversing diverse landscapes and cultures on two wheels creates a deeper connection than flying or driving. The trip was also a personal challenge: to prove that a solo rider could maintain a steady pace across varied terrain while staying self‑sufficient.
What I Learned
| Lesson | Insight |
|---|---|
| Preparation matters | Detailed route planning, weather monitoring, and spare‑parts kits prevented many potential setbacks. |
| Nutrition is critical | Balancing carbs, protein, and hydration was key to sustain the effort; on‑the‑go meals (oats, nuts, fruit) every hour were lifesavers. |
| Mental resilience | Long climbs and the hot weather the last 5 days were tough; breaking the day into manageable segments helped maintain motivation. |
| Rest is as important as riding | The day in Saverne + proper sleep dramatically improved performance on subsequent legs. |
| Self‑reliance builds confidence | Fixing mechanicals along the way reinforced problem‑solving skills and independence. |
Highlights & Memories
- Alpine passes of Swiss: climbs and panoramic views.
- Lucerne lake: a breathtaking cycling path.
- Vineyards of Alsace: a very, very nice place to ride your bike.
- Rolling hills of Luxembourg: quiet roads perfect cycling paths.
