But first, a short walk into Germany … Bad Saeckingen’s main claim to fame is Europe’s longest covered bridge, crossing the Rhine and providing a border crossing for pedestrians and cyclists (no customs booth). Built 400 years ago, it was restored in 1990, and is a thing of beauty. It smells of very old timbers, and has a reassuring sturdiness that only comes from solid wood.  Across the river we could see an ancient tower, with a bride and groom having photos taken.  We strolled across and back – unfortunately we didn’t have time to explore any more of the town, which looked very quaint.

At 200 metres, this is the longest covered bridge in Europe

Built to last

Border crossing

Views from the bridge

Bride and groom

Holding up the turret by one finger

Instead we made our first foray into a Swiss supermarket – ouch! Prices have leapt. Something we will have to get used to for the next few days.

After lunch we drove back to Riniken for Day 2 – the Long Distance. Ian had 6.3 km and I had 3.7 km. Very similar terrain to yesterday, albeit a different hill, the Bruggerberg. Again I was last starter, setting off at 4pm, an hour after the rest of the gang.  I filled in my time shopping and bought a very nice but very expensive Swiss O top. Well a girl has to have something to show off when she gets home!  Again I stoically ignored the crepes (saving them for tomorrow).  Much like yesterday, I had track options most of the time.  Some controls were nice and easy to get, just a short walk into soft pine forest with either needles or moss underfoot. Other times I felt like I was in the jungle – I could see the track just over “there”, but there was a green wall between me and it.  My self imposed target was 90 minutes, and I was relieved to complete the course in 85. Less running today, and it showed in my result, slipping down a couple of places. Ian was a respectable 14^th of 21, and was pleased with his run, no errors and feeling a bit fitter.

So ends the forest orienteering, and we can pack away the gaiters and O shoes. The remaining events are sprints.

We headed home to Tiny House, and after a massive load of washing was hung out, we were contemplating cooking a pedestrian dinner of pork, potatoes, and frozen peas (the 3 Ps).  Like an angel, our host Taeko appeared at the door bearing a tray of home cooked Japanese food, all gluten free and all delicious. There were meat balls, eggplant in soy sauce, and a lovely sushi salad with lots of vegies and avocado. Perfect!  We devoured it like, well, ravenous orienteers. We’ve loved staying here, and this meal just topped off our day – thank you Taeko!

Ian’s course

Deb’s course