In August 2025, I embarked on one of the most amazing adventures of my life so far. An 11-day solo bike ride, covering ≈ 1,100 km with ≈ 10,000 m of elevation gain. The route spanned six countries: Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and Belgium, starting in Como, Italy, and finishing in Brussels, Belgium.
Why I did it
Passion for endurance sports: Long-distance cycling pushes my physical limits and offers a mental break and time for reflection.
Desire to explore: Traversing different landscapes and cultures on two wheels creates a deeper connection than flying or driving. The trip was also a personal challenge: proving I could cover so many kilometers solo, powered only by my own legs, gave me a massive sense of confidence and freedom.
The Journey
Describing the landscapes and feelings in words is difficult, if not impossible (and might get a bit boring to read), so I recommend watching the video :)
What I Learned
| Lesson | Insight |
|---|---|
| Organization is key | Detailed route planning, weather tracking, and a spare parts kit prevented many potential mishaps. |
| Nutrition is crucial | Eating and drinking at least every hour is essential, otherwise you won't be able to keep going the next day! |
| Mental resilience | The long climbs and intense heat during the last 5 days were tough; music, podcasts, and the scenery helped a lot. |
| Rest is as important as riding | The rest day in Saverne + adequate sleep drastically improved my performance in the subsequent stages. |
| Self-sufficiency builds confidence | Fixing mechanical issues along the way strengthened my problem-solving skills and independence. |
Highlights and Memories
- Swiss Alpine Passes: Tough climbs and panoramic views.
- Lake Lucerne: A breathtaking bike path (it was nearly dark, but still beautiful).
- Alsace Vineyards: A truly stunning place to ride.
- Rolling hills of Luxembourg: Quiet roads perfect for cycling.
