Alpine Goldwing Journey - May 22-31

In late May, we leave Denmark and head south toward the mountains. The first stage runs through Germany to Heidelberg, where the shift from northern plains to rolling terrain begins. From there, the real ride starts as we enter the Black Forest. Along the legendary B500 Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, smooth ridge roads and flowing curves set the rhythm. Dense forests, elevated viewpoints, and classic German asphalt create the right warm-up before the higher mountains. The day ends at Lake Constance, the last calm stretch before the Alps rise on the horizon. From Bodensee, we continue into Austria via Bregenzerwald. Quiet alpine villages, winding roads, and the climb over Hochtannbergpass mark the first true mountain crossing. Lechtal delivers wide sweepers and classic alpine scenery before Fernpass leads us toward Zell am See, our staging point for the high alpine section. The next day is the journey's turning point. Leaving Zell am See in the morning, we climb the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. At more than 2,500 meters, surrounded by snow-lined peaks and dramatic hairpins, we reach the highest and most iconic stretch of the trip. The descent toward Heiligenblut and through Austria's southern valleys marks a clear shift: from the famous alpine showcase to terrain that feels wilder and less commercial. Crossing into Slovenia via Predil Pass, the ride changes character again. The Julian Alps feel raw, compact, and intense. In Bovec, we establish base for several days of focused exploration. From here, the focus moves from transit to immersion. Mangart Saddle brings dramatic rock walls and narrow alpine concentration. The turquoise Soca River guides us through flowing valley roads. Northern Italy adds pace and intensity through quieter mountain passes without the heavy traffic often found in the Dolomites. Each day balances flow and technical riding. Each stage builds on the one before it. Forest. Mid-alpine. High alpine. Julian frontier. Ten days. Three countries. One continuous progression south, and back again.