Velmerstot to Oesdorf
Distance: 50km
Some people showed up for sunset at 22:00, some for moonrise of the supermoon a couple of minutes later.
Since the double decker observation tower is quite big, it never felt crowded.
Sunrise a couple of hours later is spectacular as well. This time I'm the only one up there, I enjoy every minute of it.
With such a wonderful start into my day, it feels like I am floating down along the shallow descending ridge. Shortly after I bump into Johanna, who just got out of her tent and who is doing a multiday hike. We have a nice conversation and after a long hug I am on my way again.
Plenty of the pine forest has become a victim of the Bark Beetle, the lack of rain and storms during the last 10 or so years. It's a sad sight. No shelter from the sun, which is burning down relentlessly. At one point, I open my umbrella, to get at least a little bit of shade. I don't mind the heat, my body seems to cope quite well with it. Yet, progress is getting a bit slower and the feeling of floating has been vaporized by the sun.
Shortly before Blankenrode, I'm under the shade of the trees again. What a welcome change. After 45 kilometers I'm ready to set camp near a shelter a couple of steps away from Blankenrode. It doesn't look too inviting though. A sign says 4 kilometers to the next shelter and, even though I am not really in the physical state to continue I do so anyway.
And oh boy, it is so worth it. Not the walk there, but what I experience at that shelter, where a theater group is celebrating. Before I can put down my pack, I get asked if I an vegan. I deny it and soon sit amongst a cheerful bunch of lovely people, drinking beer, Schnaps and eating lots of delicious food. A great evening with lots of talking and laughing.
It's getting late, or I should rather say early. Shortly past midnight, I get ready to set up my camp (which I had do time and motivation to do before), when Bernhard offers me his couch and a hot shower. I can't believe how lucky this night is turning out for me. Together we walk into the town of Oesdorf and to his beautiful place.
After a shower, it's shortly before 1 in the morning, I call it a day. A long day, an evenful, fantastic day. Definitely one to remember!
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George Mills (Thursday, 16 June 2022 10:33)
Not surprising to see a late start thisorning. Sounds like a great night after 50 kms. Another kaitiaki creating a little magic for you. The old saying "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy" certainly applies to this day. Hope you experience many more such encounters. Keep on Tracking
Rob (Thursday, 16 June 2022 22:07)
I know I leave you verbal messages, and vice versa, but it's also nice to leave written messages, especially after such readings as I have just had. Indeed a really special and memorable day for you. What a gem of a day it turned into. As George has already proposed for you, "may you have many more"
I have a sense that trail has not yet been as challenging as when you walked through the other countries. It's all adding to the geography and topography of creating the diversity of the different terrains you have encountered, and the different flora and fauna.i am guessing as you head further south the terrain will become more testing. I can't wait to see your photos, and hear your accounts as you go through Bavaria.
Keep on keeping on. Wow!! the 18th today.
Reading of your daylight hours is not so much reminding me of how short our days are becoming, rather, it's a reminder of our long days of Summer returning to us soon.
I am expecting Spring lambs soon, and the burst of Spring flowers.
Enjoy the days you are given. Take care and stay safe �
Rob (Thursday, 16 June 2022 22:17)
Ahhhh ... thats weird. Firstly today is the 17th of July. Yet the date will show as been posted the 16th. Written in your future Sandro, yet showing in my past, on your page.
Interesting.