GET BUSY CYCLING: GEORGE’S JOURNEY
George Bacon is cycling solo across Europe, from the Matt Hampson Foundation’s Get Busy Living Centre to Istanbul, to raise funds in support of young people following life-changing injury in sport.
Here, he shares some thoughts from the opening stages of his journey into the Netherlands and Germany.
You can help George and the Foundation to help others with a donation through his Just Giving Page.
Day 1 and 2
The first two days take me through the rolling hills of the east of England. The scenery is breathtaking and the people I encounter are as warm as the landscape is beautiful.
Night 2 and Day 3
On the second night, I board the overnight ferry to Rotterdam. After a good meal and some rest, I am ready for the next leg of my adventure. The next day, I set off inland with a friend I had met on the ferry, passing windmills and fields of tulips. It is a picture-perfect introduction to the Netherlands.
Day 4 and 5
The Netherlands is an absolute dream for cycling. I find it astonishing how prioritised cyclists are – cars truly do feel like second-class road users here. I would highly recommend the Dutch countryside to anyone interested in touring. The farmland and rural scenery I experience are unforgettable.
On day five, I cross the River Meuse. While not the official border, it certainly feels like one. Every car now has a ‘D’ on its plate and the road signs switch to German. I have entered Germany.
Day 6 and 7
I spend these days following the River Rhine, starting in Cologne and continuing all the way to Koblenz. I frequently stop to admire the castles and historic buildings that have watched over the Rhine for centuries. The river is both beautiful and formidable. The sheer power of its current is a reminder of how much of Europe’s trade it carries towards Rotterdam. In the Middle Ages, the Rhine formed a natural border and its cliffs were once vantage points for toll stations. In that sense, the Rhine was the medieval equivalent of the M6 Toll, albeit with fewer Range Rovers.
Day 8
This marks the beginning of the hills. As I move further into central Germany, the terrain becomes noticeably more demanding. The climbs are tough, but every drop of sweat is worth it once I reach the summits. I have been passing through quaint little villages every few kilometres, each one seemingly lifted from a fairytale. With the stunning alpine views around me, I half-expect to hear Julie Andrews singing from the hills, though that may just be the exhaustion setting in.
Day 9
Today I arrive in Würzburg, a charming river town known for its grand cathedrals and a residence that rivals Buckingham Palace. As I journey further east, I have noticed that the architecture is becoming even more beautiful. I suspect this is partly due to this region being spared much of the Allied bombing during the Second World War. This allows me to witness historic homes and churches in all their preserved glory.
This evening, I will arrive in Nuremberg. I have booked a tour of the courtroom where the infamous trials took place. To be able to visit a place where justice was served in the face of immense evil is deeply humbling. As I write this, I am reminded of just how fortunate we are to live the lives we do. The phrase “Get busy living” resonates more powerfully with me than ever before.
My journey so far has been truly remarkable. Everyone I have met along the way has been incredibly friendly and helpful, although most think I’m mad for attempting such an undertaking.
Still a long way to go!
George
