July 2026 – Crossing the Alps – Day 1: On the Lechweg from Füssen to Ehrwald

Today the time had finally come: the Alpine crossing has begun. Under bright sunshine, I set off from Füssen in the morning – and the trail immediately made clear that it means business. First of all: uphill, uphill and yet more uphill.

Over roots, rocks and narrow forest paths, the Lechweg led ever higher. Along the way, I passed the beautiful Alpsee once more, which I had already discovered yesterday. Today I got to enjoy it for much longer. Even a small via ferrata was waiting for me en route. Nothing special for experienced mountaineers, certainly, but for me it was still a lovely moment that added variety to the day.

After the long ascent came the second part of the day: downhill. And that was at least as demanding. The many metres of descent took a real toll on the legs and, in the end, were almost more exhausting than the climb.

Along the way, I kept encountering goats. The ringing of their bells accompanied me for many kilometres and almost gave my stride its own rhythm on the way down. An unexpectedly lovely companion on the trail.

Now I'm sitting, tired but happy, in my hotel in Ehrwald. From my room, I look directly at the Zugspitze. Although I won't be passing it tomorrow, it is an impressive sight and a beautiful end to the first real day of hiking.

Finally, I have to admit my mother was right: she explicitly advised me to pack alcohol rub and Voltaren. Both came into use today. My hotel room now smells entirely of alcohol rub because I gave my legs and back a thorough going-over. And I have to say: it simply feels wonderful.