We are back in Austria! After leaving Bozen this morning we turned our bikes north. Three passes waited for us (Penser Joch, Jaufenpass and Timmelsjoch) - and another picnic. Unfortunately we encountered a little bit of rain, and the top of the Timmelsjoch was completely hidden in fog. But the evening entertainment made up for the inconvenience: an Austrian "Volksmusik"-band played their songs in the restaurant - this is the real Austria!

The first Ultimate Alps Tour in 2012 has arrived in Italy. Our motorcycle tour has so far taken us through Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland - and now we have reached Italy!

The first day took us from Munich straight towards the Alps. King Ludwig's palace Linderhof was our first stop - amazing how much gold can be stuffed into one building!

The palace is behind you!!!

 

Of course we were a little hungry afterwards - fortunately Axel had found a beautiful spot and waited for us with one of the famous Edelweiss picnics!

Lunch with a view! Bill and Leslie at the Plansee

The day ended in the mountains -  a beautiful hotel at more than 5000ft elevation.

Yigal and his Multistrada - high up in the Austrian mountains        The next day brought us into Switzerland - famous for its lakes, knives, mountain roads and of course the Matterhorn!The Ultimate Group! Shopping time! Not too many straight roads around here! The "Horn"

After all the work in the mountains we have now reached Italy - Bozen is our home for two days. A part of the group is tackling the twisties in the Dolomites right now - but there is always time for a little stop to explore the local treats!

Eiskaffee (iced coffee, European style)