Cycling Europe -Need Advise and tips-

[L.R.C]

Okay, So i'm 17 and love my long distance cycling and i am doing the End 2 End cycle in a matter of weeks but i hope to do a month of cycling in Europe covering 1300 - 2000 miles in that time going to

France
Belgium
Luxenburg
Switzerland
Austria
Germany
Netherlands

I intend on starting this in July Once i've finished School and raise money from working.

I did a quick route on Google maps as just little idea and far from set in stone.

Any Advise on this sort of Solo Cycling would be very much appreciated as i know it will be some what different from cycling with someone as i usually do and a lot more demanding.

>>The Route i wish to be somewhat near to<<

Thank You,
Lewis

 

[oldfatfool]

I appreciate that your route is rough, but I would start by mapping it without using m-ways, it is amazing how the mileage increases point to point using local roads.

Have a look on warmshowers and couchsurfing, I have had 5 or 6 offers of free accommodation for my tour in July which will bring costs down.

Don't forget Switzerland still use the CHF not the Euro.

 

[L.R.C]

Yeah i kept that route to my minimum of 1300miles as i know by my planning for my End 2 end cycle that taking minor roads and the scenic road add on a lot of miles.

Thanks for that i will do New to the forums but i can see it will be the best way to help get me on my way.

Yeah, i have a friend in Geneva so hopefully will get a place to stay there for a night or two and the currency isn'ts much of a problem i use my bank card and don't get charged when abroad happily.

Thank you for your reply
Appreciated
Lewis

 

[rollinstok]

It sounds like you are already a good cyclist and I congratulate you on your decision to go on a European tour.
The biggest decision is deciding what to take and what to leave at home, there are essentials that you will no doubt already be aware of.
For a long solo tour I would take a luxury or two as you may ( despite your youth ) find yourself alone on some overnight stays. I play guitar and on some of my earlier tours I took a blues harp and learned a few tricks on that to pass the time.
You will need insurance of some sort too.
Good luck

 

[L.R.C]

Thanks
It's the sense of achievement of reaching your goal which get me into cycling.
Indeed i always aim to be below 8 kg of kit in my paniers if possible since my camping stuff only takes up 3kg
Mmm yeah i can see the vitualness of that to keep me going thanks for that
Indeed my friend is a travel agent so they will hook me up
Thanks again,
Lewis