A visit to Bavaria

Four hours by train from Zürich the Disney castle is located. I have had it on my bucket list for years, been to Bavaria for skiing but never stopped by. When I looked for a marathon to run in July I had Köhnigsschloss marathon in the small town Füssen just next to the castle on my list so it was a 2 for 1 deal to go. Train booked and ciao.

Füssen

This is apparently a popular station among Asians so half the train was originating from the far east. July and prime time and this little city is a perfect example of over tourism. Not very friendly people I met except at an Italian café where I had lunch and overpriced everything. The city was cute but staff all around need to work on their soft skills. I was hoping for enjoying one of the lakes swimming but 14 degrees and pouring rain so no need to go to a lake to get wet. Just go outside.

Neuschwanstein

The Disney castle looks magic from outside but the inside you can skip to visit. It’s a trap. I purchased my ticket one month in advance and at that time there was only German tours left. Well now I understand enough to follow the tour so got a German lecture also. But the tour was very short. Half an hour only and we visited only four rooms. They were nice but not worth it. Instead it is better to pack some comfy shoes and go for a long walk outside to see the beautiful architecture from all angles.

Köhnigsschlösser-Romantik-Marathon

Course was very beautiful but weather was not what to expect in end of July. 14 degrees and pouring rain 80% of the time. Relatively flat course but to enjoy it you need to like small ups and downs and gravel roads. There was only 500 ish participants but from all over the world. Not many people out watching so you are your own best support. Nobody will pick you up if you do not finish and then you will sometimes be out in the forest. However if you like beautiful nature scenery this is a run for you.

I had packed my fresh legs so I was happy for that. My mind was not programmed for marathon and I did not even wanted to start and almost missed it due to late arrival ten minutes before the run started. Then I even had to pick up my number, hand in my bag and go to toilet. I had a very few seconds left until the start when I took off. I was running in my own world and without any effort I passed 10K. 25% done. The heavy rain had already started so I was soaked at this point. It was like running under the shower.

Half way in was close to call off. If I would have had slow legs I probably would do my first DNF today. Just to many thoughts from here and there and all around. I tried to focus and re-focus. 26K and I got some hope I could do this. The turning point was there and I saw my friend from Stockholm. We made a high five. I was rethinking that we have to celebrate together. Legs were still good and I had a good pace. 32 and I took my second gel. Me that not even had any coffee this morning due to late wake up now got a coffee in shot. I have started to take two gels every marathon and it helps although i think they taste so disgusting. Swallow and drink water. 35 and it was a very nice lake we had to run around. I passed quite a few runners here and felt strong. Thought only 5K left and let’s go. Soon there for a hot shower. Saw my friend again. Another high five. Two Ks to go. I had a minor chance of PB. Would been tough but thought what to lose? I didn’t made it but finished on what I think is my second best marathon time. Well I know the legs were good but next time I hope my mind also comes along because that you need for 42K of running.

Finished. 3:41:25 and happy with that so I could celebrate with my Stockholm friend that also made her way to the little town in Bavaria for her 35th maraton. Good end of the story like a fairy tell in a Disney castle.

Have you ever been to Bavaria? Or having it on your travel map? If not I can recommend a visit for the natural beauty.

/ Pernilla that finished another marathon