This week we, my husband Markus and I, swapped our bicycles for our motorbike and hit the small roads to the mountains. Our 30-year-old grand lady was back at work. Gliding through the winding roads with a bit of a stutter here and there.

We did not have a destination in mind. We knew the general direction we wanted to head in and hit the road. Nothing booked for the night as we did not know where we would end up. It is summer and we knew most places would be booked, but we knew we would find something. We always did. And they were usually the best finds.

We found out along the way that most hotels in the villages, although near tourist spots like ski and hiking spots, did not withstand the 2 years of Covid. Most hotels were full but we found this quaint bed and breakfast or Pension as they call them in Austria.  

Austria is truly a beautiful country. The rolling hills and valleys are stunning. One reconnects with nature in a heartbeat. I can’t help but feel humbled and small in the presence of these mountains. Nature seems to have a way of putting everything in perspective.

I shall make this a very pictorial essay this week. My mobile phone does not do nature justice, but it is better than no pictures.

Besides nature, I have been having an amazing culinary and wine experience. Austria is the home of the Gruner Veltliner, the best easy-drinking white wine in my opinion. Here I am having it as a Spritzer – half white wine, half soda water. Just superb for the summer heat.

And the food! What a culinary adventure. The Austrians love their bread, cold cuts and hot meals of course. But the bread takes centre stage for sure. There are all sorts and different regions have their signature bread. The pride!

I went swimming at a lake whilst Markus played golf with his friends. A gratitude-inducing and reflection-inspiring spot!

I hope my short visual tour inspires you too!

As always, you can reach me at yoga@yoganesadurai.com