Day 3

Good morning, dear people!

We slept in the shade of the pilgrimage church Mariahilfberg. Bell ringing every quarter of an hour. The dear God also attracts attention at night.

During breakfast, we will discuss the today's route to Puchberg. Variant via Öhler or via Bodenwiese? Steep uphill or a longer way around? 5 women - one hat! Difficult situation.

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We then took a comfortable direct route to Öhlerschutzhaus. The weather forecast was the decisive factor: from 1 pm it will be damp and thunderous. This route version was the majority's preference.

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Until Öhlerschutzhaus (closed today) it was still somewhat dry. Under the veranda of the shelter completely dry - therefore a short break with drinks and calorie intake.

During the descent to Puchberg, all hell breaks loose in the sky. The question whether it can rain any stronger must be answered with a clear yes, and that every half hour.

Such heavy rain! In no time, the path is flooded. Skillfully - hurrying downhill in single file - we hop from the water channels to the small gravel banks in between, leaning on our walking sticks. At some point, the shoes inside are also so wet that avoiding the water channels becomes almost obsolete. In an hour, we are faster than expected down the mountain and merge onto the asphalt road to Puchberg. Wet on top. Wet in the front. Wet in the back. Wet below. What else could happen? The asphalt road resembles a little stream. The stream next to the road a raging, brown river.

We shuffle, with wet feet but brave, towards the center of Puchberg, to our guesthouse. For now: bakery! Coffee and cake!

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Interim balance after 3 days: 59km walked, 2560m uphill, 2560m downhill. The legs know...

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In the evening (hungry) we eat at the "Schwarzen Adler". Incredibly nice service - a family-run business. Very good food, special beer "Schneebergbräu" - only available in restaurants. We feel full and well and will start tomorrow to the next 18km and 1000m uphill to Schlöglmühl...