Vilsberg to Saarlouis

Saturday October 6, 2018, 60 miles (97 km) - Total so far: 6,629 miles

(10,669 km)

Long day!!

We couldn't find any decent-sounding campsites in Saarbrucken, so planned to push on to Saarlouis instead. The day started off pretty hilly - the overall ascent wasn't actually that much but it was a real rollercoaster. You get to the flat after 20km...but still have more than 70 to go!! After that things WERE easier, but it still felt like a long way. I don't think we've cycled that far since New Zealand!

The early part of the ride was beautiful. You then follow the Saar canal for a fair distance, which is pretty nice too. The shiny Eurovelo 5 signs are no more, but there are stickers on relevant posts along the way. Takes a while to spot them, but once you have, you realise there are loads!

Into Germany, Saarbrucken is a real eyesore. We stopped for our second lunch, but pushed on through other than that. Lots of derelict industry and graffiti.

We were relieved to finally arrive in Saarlouis, but then dismayed to find we'd coincided not only with Oktoberfest, but also with a party at the campsite...... However, it all turned out fine as the tent pitches are tucked away from all of the action! It's a great site, with some small touches like a charging box with 'normal' sockets near the tent sites (rather than the outdoor ones), and there's even a garage you can camp in if you prefer. Great facilities with loads of changing space in the showers, and HAIRDRYERS which are welcome as autumn descends! All for only 18 euros. I think I might actually be obsessed with campsite quality ;)