In August 2025, I embarked on an incredible adventure. An 11-day solo ride, covering ≈ 1,100 km with ≈ 10,000 m of elevation gain across 6 countries.
Starting from Como (Italy), I rode all the way to Brussels (Belgium) to visit my grandparents.
The Route
I cycled primarily along the Eurovelo 5 (EV5 - Via Romea Francigena), with a few shortcuts to save some kilometers.
Most of the route consisted of bike paths or low-traffic roads, except for a few unavoidable stretches on main roads (e.g., the descent from the St. Gotthard Pass toward Andermatt).
I used my road bike with 23/25mm tires, so a gravel or mountain bike isn't strictly necessary, though it would have been more comfortable in certain spots (some short unpaved sections weren't ideal for a fully loaded road bike).
If you need tips or want the GPX file of the route, don't hesitate to contact me!
The Journey
Describing the landscapes and feelings in words is difficult, if not impossible (and might get a bit boring), so I recommend watching the video :)
Why this adventure
Passion for endurance sports: Long-distance cycling pushes my physical limits and offers a moment for pause and reflection.
Desire to explore: Crossing different landscapes and cultures on two wheels creates a deeper connection than flying or driving. The trip was also a personal challenge: proving that I could cover so many kilometers solo, powered only by my legs, gave me a huge sense of confidence and freedom.
What I Learned
| Lesson | Insight |
|---|---|
| Organization is key | Detailed route planning, weather monitoring, and a spare parts kit prevented many potential mishaps. |
| Nutrition is crucial | Eating and drinking at least every hour is essential, otherwise you won't be able to move the next day! |
| Mental resilience | The long climbs and intense heat of the last 5 days were tough; music, podcasts, and the scenery helped a lot. |
| Rest is as important as riding | The rest day in Saverne + adequate sleep drastically improved performance in the following stages. |
| Self-sufficiency builds confidence | Fixing mechanical issues along the way strengthened my problem-solving skills and independence. |
Highlights and Memories
- Swiss Alpine Passes: Challenging climbs and panoramic views.
- Lake Lucerne: A breathtaking cycle path (it was nearly dark, but still beautiful).
- Alsace Vineyards: A truly stunning place to cycle through.
- Rolling hills of Luxembourg: Quiet roads perfect for cycling.
