The beginning is made.

After a lovely breakfast with Helga, Katrin, Ben, and Finn, the four of them drove me by car to Konzen on the Eifel heights to the starting point of the cycling route. To my surprise, Margot and Rolf also joined us with a lovingly crafted motivational sign and various fan items.

From Winterspelt, it was a nice and short route along the Vennbahn cycling path to get accustomed. The weather had a bit of everything: wind (a lot), rain (moderate), and sun (a little).

Finally, the mountain arrival in Winterspelt after a 3-kilometer ascent from the valley against the wind. I have the hotel completely to myself today.