Day 39 Austria 27/10/2010 Passau–Niederrana–Wiezenkirchen–Peuerbach. 43.10miles/, 4hr32minutes, Av 9.5mph.

We woke up in a lovely warm room, had filled rolls and cakes for breakfast and headed out on to the road.

Leaving Passau was straightforward, although the road was very busy for the first few kilometres. We followed the northern bank of the Danube until Niederrana and then crossed over. The Danube has very few crossing points on this stretch and most of the cycle ferries have stopped running for the season.

From Niederrana we stuck to the B130 main road as we were leaving the Danube behind at Schlögen to head towards Franz's house in Peuerbach. Having opted for the in-between route to Peuerbach, we climbed steadily for 6kms and then according to Franz's instructions we had a 4km descent. At least we would have, if I had followed the instructions clearly! I got the order a bit wrong and as soon as I saw the sign for Wiezenkirchen we turned right, unaware there was another turning 4kms down the road. We then had an extremely steep climb for another few kilometres followed by a terrific descent of about 5kms. Later we were informed by Franz that we may as well have taken the short steep route as it would have been as easy as the way we came. Once again the need for a proper map and someone who pays attention was highlighted.

From Wiezenkirchen we followed the B129 over another steep hill, because we couldn't find the alternative route. The lack of a map covering this area made the direct route sound like a safer bet. We eventually made it into Peuerbach via a very fast descent into the town.

My instructions for finding Franz's house proved useless and after Debbie got fed up of us riding round and round, we rang Franz who came to meet us. Clearly highlighting the different navigational styles of men and women!

It was lovely to see Franz again, especially as he had a welcome beer at the ready. We had dinner at a local inn and then spent the evening looking at his photo books from our trip together. All whilst enjoying a nice glass of wine. Which had the added bonus of helping Debbie forgive me for taking the wrong route!

We passed the 2000km mark today, a rest is definitely in order.