We set out planning to take a bike route to Bern mainly following the Aare river (route 8). However we did not connect to the Aare river route on our way out of Aarburg as we were camping on the opposite side of the river. Instead we picked up signs for a more direct route to Bern (route 4), so we decided to follow them. This made the day shorter than we expected at 74km.

The signs were excellent and directed us at each intersection from about 40km out of the city. Here is an example.

The ride was through easy countryside, including dairy cows with bells around their necks and many small villages.

     

We crossed the river Aare again before we entered the city. It was a brilliant blue/green colour.

We rode around the city a bit, first finding the tourist information to get maps, and then a supermarket. We bought some wine before making our way to Esther’s apartment. 

I was impressed with this bicycle parking facility near the station. The attendant told us that it was full – it costs 1 Swiss Franc a day to park.

It was great to see Esther again. Her apartment is lovely, with a veranda and garden view, where we enjoyed some local beers.

This beer is from a brewery near Esther’s home town (I liked the label a lot!).

There is a day care centre below the apartment and there was a party on for the parents and children. This was the view of some families enjoying the park below.

In the evening we enjoyed a delicious home cooked meal, with red wine and good conversation.