By Bike

Day 8 (11^th August) – Oberwölz Stadt to Sarstein.

A predominant feature of our tour so far has been mild mornings then sudden jumps in temperature and scorching afternoons. This may be due to a phenomenon known as the Föhn wind.

I discovered the Föhn is a type of dry, relatively warm downslope wind that occurs in the lee side of a mountain range. Having dropped most of its moisture on windward slopes, it subsequently warms again as it flows down the lee side and out across the valley.

Föhn winds can raise the temperature by as much as 14°C in just a matter of hours. This part of Europe tends to have a warmer climate due to the Föhn, as moist winds off the Mediterranean Sea blow over the Alps.

Our major climb today was over Sölkpass, similar to those of our last few days, this one with a bit of a sting as you approach the pass.

Sölkpass has a more remote feel about it, quite narrow at the pass, with little infrastructure or tourists.

A suitably wonderful descent dodging horses, cattle, traffic, weaving multiple hairpin bends then tucking into the most aerodynamic position for maximum speed.

We catch up with Liz and Sue at Trautenfels, parked beside a fish farm brimming with jumping trout and a restaurant next door! Alas fully booked. Whilst getting replenished a little critter snuck out from under a log to get some sun. First reptile sighting!

The sun was certainly blazing for the last part of the journey. Despite cycleways through beautiful forest, lush meadows and stunning scenery (again), lots of stops and fluids were needed to stay cool.

Sarstein is our destination. We found a tiny farm stay with minimal facilities, lots of agricultural activity (cutting hay), few tourists, dramatic scenery, a roaring river, plenty of walks and a wonderful restaurant down the road. What better place to park the bike for a rest day?

According to Garmin