Back in the Kamnik Alps

For the return journey of 28km to Kamnik, I find another path in the wide valley of Kamiska Bistrica, so that I don't have to ride back the same way. The climb to Volovljek makes me sweat, but the route is not heavily traveled and the views are beautiful. A storm is brewing in the mountains, which catches up with me on the descent to Luce, shortly after visiting the old mill. I can take shelter comfortably at a farm and the cats, who have sought refuge from the rain, keep me company. Luce has more to offer than my map promised. There are new groceries and chilled beer. I set up camp next to a covered seating area for 2 nights.

The next morning, I start cycling at 6:30 AM and ride 9km into the Rabova Valley. The last stretch into the valley is actually prohibited for bikes, but for now, I am all alone on the trail and I don't feel like walking. After all, I still have 1550 altimeters ahead of me from here. However, I prefer to hide the bike in front of the mountain hut. The path to the saddle is well equipped with iron and ropes after the small waterfall, and it is fun to climb the steep walls. The trail then makes a long loop over the saddle, and I am already thinking about how to shorten it on the way back. Then it goes up again in the rocks and the view, especially to the north, gets better and better. There are more people at the top because there are three routes to the summit. I take several breaks to gather strength. At 1:10 PM, after 5½ hours, I am at the top and enjoy the panoramic view. It takes me another good 4 hours for the return journey, despite the shortcut. I pass by the small chapel that attracted me on the way there. Retrieve the bike from its hiding place and quickly zoom down into the valley before anyone approaches me. I consider jumping into the Savinja River, but I am too weak and prefer the warm shower to relax my strained muscles and joints.

There are severe thunderstorms during the night, and I am glad about my new tent that holds up well.