My bike trip from Lisbon to Innsbruck

I’m Merle – a passionate cyclist from Germany. For me, cycling is the ultimate vacation. In just a single day on the road, you gather so many impressions that it feels like a whole week! No matter where you are, being on a bike makes you feel connected to the local community by having short chats with passersby, observing everyday life in non-touristic spots and enjoying different landscapes and atmospheres. 

 

I started bikepacking years ago doing short trips for one week like in 2022, where I ended up at the Gabanel Bike Hostel on my tour from Lago Maggiore to Verona. This year I cycled from Lisbon to Innsbruck passing 3700 km in 5 weeks. 

 

As I still remember the amazing breakfast buffet (with a coffee flat rate!) on the beautiful terrace, I was looking forward to enjoy the familiar atmosphere at Gabanel Bike Hostel again. After having a long day on a bike, it´s great to exchange experiences with other travelers. 

 

Anyone is capable of doing a bikepacking vacation! My advice: don’t plan your daily stages to be too long and make sure to build in highlights (a café, a sight, a lake for a swim…). 

Otherwise… the journey is the reward! See you on the road. Good ride!