Straubing by way of Walhalla - 11 Mai

Today's ride included one big, self imposed, hill. We wanted to see Walhalla, which happend to be commissioned by the same king--Ludwig I--and designed by the same architecht--Leo von Klenze--as Hall of Liberation--the monument we visited with Sigrid and Martina a couple days ago in Kelheim.

While Norse mythology Valhalla is for warriors, this Walhalla is not only for warriors but also for scientists, writers, and religious leaders, and includes women.  Regardless of occupation or sex, you have to have done something great for the German people to be honored here. 

We poked our heads inside for a quick look but stayed outside for lunch with a view.

This was the first sight of a working barge in the Donau that we'd had--one that we were certain we were racing-- and beat--all the way to Straubing.

Afterwards we came across this little guy--ahead at first in the trail. I thought the cyclist ahead of us aways had maybe dropped something at first. And then we realized what it was--and figured he was not native or anywhere close to where he belonged. 

I think he wanted us to take him home. 

When we explained we wouldn't be home for some time he decided to take his chances and hopped off down the trail.

Dipping swan...

No shots of our neighbors, but our campground in Straubing was relatively packed--2 solo male cyclists, one other touring couple, and a group of young guys (transported by jeep). No more being the only cyclists on the trails or paths or campgrounds! We snagged a free  picnic table 50 meters away (not in the tent area...typical for European camping) for setting out our dinner as well as our breakfast and for the morning sun before leaving the next morning for our final night of camping on the trip.