Day 9 - Bratislava - 31st May 2024

Was cloudy but at least not raining when I got up. 

Decided to take the eBike into Bratislava today. Not really cycle routes just pavements until you get a couple of miles from the centre which has proper marked cycle paths.

Not impressed with the old town. Full of Americans who also didn't look that impressed. 

It's got nothing on Prague.

Took a cycle route I'd found on Komoot that went along the Danube to Devin (which has an important castle\fortress overlooking the Danube) 

and then over a lovely cycle bridge into Austria.

It rained and rained oh and rained!

The route is about 49 miles but with a couple of detours ended up being about 55 miles! Its well signposted and a proper 2 lane (both ways) cycle route.

It was so wet at one point I put on my waterproof trousers and coat and the snails were out in force. Making good use of the water surface.

Not cold though.

Surprisingly had a load of little cafes and restaurants along the way but all were closed - I think its too early in the year for them or they weren't expecting anyone on such an awful day. 

To be fair I only saw one group of cyclists on a tour going the other way round to me.

I stopped in Bratislava for some food a kebab and chips! Then ended up back at the campsite @ 8pm. Shower (cold water only as they are renovating) then quick pasta and batton down the hatched as a thunderstorm was coming in! 

The place was once rather grand but most of it is still closed as it has its makeover.

The above was once a canteen. Once its finished it will be lovely you can camp overlooking the lake, will have hot showers and WiFi. They have the kitchen up and working (loads of hobs to cook on). But they do need to sort out the lighting around the campsite. Basics first.

They obviously need the rain - not! 

Phoned Ludlow family quickly.