Went to church near our hotel this morning. Glad we knew the routine because we sure didn't understand the German. Didn't get on the road until 11, but the logical stage for the day was short anyway. We stopped at Hochstadt at a Renaissance palace turned into a museum. The permanent collection is about German ceramics. Some beautiful pieces, but truthfully they told me more about ceramics than I wanted to know. But there is also a section about the Battle of Blenheim which took place nearby. I'd studied it, but didn't really know much. It was in 1704 in the War of Spanish Succession (seemed important at the time). The English army under Marlboro and its allies routed the French and their allies. 20,000 killed in one day, and farmers are still finding human remains. Started the major powers thinking about diplomacy.
We stopped for a late lunch at a huge beer garden and split a wurst plate. We've begun sharing dishes because though the food is delicious the portions they serve are huge and we don't want to be huge ourselves.
Arrived late in the day at the large town of Donauworth and found a good hotel in the center of the historic district. As we have all week, we watched 2 World Cup soccer games, along with everyone else.
We have found prices for food and hotels to be a bit lower than at home. Except in Zurich.
Fewer touring cyclists out today than previous days. Still have not met any American cyclists. Many Germans, 3 Swiss, and several English.
The Germans are friendly when we talk with them, but they customarily do not acknowledge other cyclists when they pass. We do- we try to get them to smile. They also do not announce themselves when overtaking. We do; we ring a bell. That's a safety thing.
Today's riding was enjoyable and same as last couple of days: rural roads and trails, no climbing, and occasional small towns. Didn't get lost today. We're getting into the routine of several hours of riding each day, and are getting stronger.
Cloudy today, but still no rain. 40% tomorrow.
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