Oct 25 - Zernez, Switzerland

Had breakfast with the family. Packed up and headed out. The high mountains blocked the sun for awhile, but as soon as it came out I had to change into my shorts. Very difficult cycling and pushing to conquer Offenpass. But when I saw the Swiss colors flying on top I cried for joy.

Had lunch on top and then did some fast coasting down into the beautiful national park. Cycled slowly through the unspoilt forests and mountains, and after a final fast fling, landed in Zernez at 2:30 pm. Took a nap in the warm sun and then checked into the youth hostel. Had supper, wrote and retired.

Climb to Offen Pass 2155 meters
Mileage Santa Maria to Zernez : 36 km 1260 m to 1474 m

milk .80
Candy 1.10

Oct 24 - Santa Maria, Switzerland

Awoke and left about 9 am. Hard cycling immediately. Had breakfast about 10 am when the sun had chased away most of the cold. Difficult cycling all day. Something's wrong with the back wheel. It's too difficult to move. Arrived in Santa Maria, beautiful Switzerland at 4 pm. Checked in at the old farmhouse youth hostel. Family of walkers from Lausanne joined me at the hostel. Invited me for dinner of soup, tea and sandwiches. Wrote and retired in the chilly hostel.

Hostel 2.80 Swiss Francs
Elevation 1,260 m
Mileage: Merano to Santa Maria 70 km