Buda and Pest

Day #23

Saturday, May 23rd.

From Kravany nad Dunajom to Budapest

Country: Slovakia / Hungary

After a restful night, interrupted only once in the morning by a passing barge, I wake up with a view of the Danube.

Indescribable, and so I allow myself to relax once more.

Especially since today's goal is clear, Budapest is within reach. And the accommodation I choose has flexible check-in times.

So I first enjoy my breakfast by the water and treat myself to brewing a coffee.

What a way to start the day.

Besides, there must be a reason why I brought the stove.

While washing up, I see a small snake-like fish weaving through the waves. I take a moment to observe it calmly.

Fascinating how it lies motionless on the bottom, occasionally poking its head out of the water.

And so everything takes its time, and today there is a late departure.

That also gets delayed further.

Where is my sunglasses?

Luckily, I notice that quite quickly.

So I go back and fortunately find them where I first parked my bike yesterday while looking for a good spot.

Things must always be in their designated place!

On the second attempt, I joyfully ride towards the Hungarian border.

I skip shopping, as I believe I still have enough provisions with me, that should suffice.

The quality of the paths deteriorates in places, and at times, they consist only of large, aligned concrete slabs. Basically, just another form of cobblestone road.

Then the time has come, the border crossing is here.

At least it is indeed real the second time, after I had suspected it once before.

It's an incredible feeling that washes over me as I cycle along the Danube on the Hungarian side.

What remains are spray-painted signs on the ground indicating upcoming cafés along the route. It always starts with beer. Additionally, it seems to me that a lot of alcohol is being consumed.

After yesterday's monotony, today is more varied.

There is another ferry ride. And no option to pay with a card. Probably my luck that in Slovakia, therefore in the neighboring country, Euros are accepted. With a few hundred Forint as change, I can continue my journey.

In the fifth country of my trip, the buildings increase again, and everything seems a bit livelier.

However, it also feels more hectic, louder, and there are more cars.

No wonder, as I am relentlessly approaching a metropolis with a million inhabitants. And there remains an exalted feeling heading towards Budapest.

The indication of a Roman Limes Museum reminds us that here, as should be expected, the Romans have made their presence felt.

And then I arrive in Budapest in the magical evening hours.

The Parliament, what a magnificent building, is bathed in a beautiful light in the evening sun.

It is a magical hour, and so I happily ride along the shore.

Then to the accommodation, which is quite centrally located.

For my dinner, I simply choose the pizzeria on the opposite side. But first, I need to take a shower, or I might get turned away.

I conclude the evening by the Danube before going to bed.

Conclusion Slovakia:

It was a small glimpse of the country, as I have ridden along the western and southern borders.

At times, I found it somewhat lackluster.

Flat land, straight country roads, and the manageable Bucharest.

Incredible beautiful despite all the monotony was the Danube bike path, which I can recommend, and an absolute highlight was the overnight stay at the beach.

Whether I would come back to explore more parts of the country is questionable.

Song of the Day:

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy - What's Next?