Tag 1: My grandma suddenly went hiking on the Rheinsteig: Ruedesheim - Lorch

Before I start writing, it is very important for me to express a heartfelt thanks to Burki. I greatly appreciate your tolerance regarding my short trips. I wouldn't be able to enjoy these little tours if I had a guilty conscience. Thank you so much for that. I am fully aware that you are struggling and that's why I want to show my appreciation. And believe me: you are always with me on all my solo trips. When I'm standing on the side of the road and don't know where to go, for example, you would reach into your pocket, take a look at Mr. Gaminski, and it would quickly become clear which way to go.

So now, let's talk about today's tour or tours in general. Once again, I had an urge to get out. Leaving the familiar surroundings, especially in this weather. Hiking was a given, not too far away, so the Rheinsteig seemed like a good choice. One week, because next week is Lenny's birthday. Grandma wants to be there. This morning, I got up early after days of indecision. With or without a tent? With a hammock? It became clear pretty quickly. After approximately 27 km with a 9 kg backpack during a trial run on Saturday and a freezing night in a hammock, it was decided: I will stay in accommodations without pre-booking. This pre-booking doesn't align with my sense of freedom. Done. At the train station in Bad Salzhausn, there was a digital display that said: "Nice that you are here." Who can say anything against the railway? Arriving in Ruedesheim, I decide to take the cable car. How lucky, as it later turns out. A quick visit to the Niederwalddenkmal, which was built in 1871 to unite Germany. Below are the vineyards of the Ruedesheimer Berg. After just a few meters, the number of people decreases significantly. It was damn hot today. Luckily, there were also moments in the shade of the forest. The trail is very well signposted and everything was fine with Komoot 👌. First along the top, then downhill to Assmanshausen, and, of course, uphill again and even higher, that's how I felt. Along the way, there were always beautiful views of the Rhine. Today I had far too little to drink. I arrived in Lorch completely dehydrated and everything was closed. I first checked for accommodation, then took a long time to find something to drink. I even stumbled over the curb. Sometimes...... 😄 I found a guesthouse. Tonight, only tap water, but breakfast with a packed lunch tomorrow. But I did have something to eat at the wine tavern. So, everything's fine. Today it was approximately 24 km and 500 meters of elevation gain. Honestly: quite challenging.