We had a massive buffer this morning. It should have taken us about 5.5 hours but we had all day to do it so we could have a few stops in between for both driver and dogs. The German fanatical roadworks decided otherwise. By the time we reached the guest house it had taken over 8 hours.
It was as if every major motorway was having work done at exactly the same time. In summer. Our view was almost always of the backs of other vehicles.
The most frustrating thing was that we’d slow to a stop then very slowly creep forward for a bit then the traffic would just vanish. We would then drive for a few miles on open road. This never lasted very long, though and it was soon back to bumper to bumper.
This is the third time we’ve driven this route and each time it seems to get worse. I’m glad we’re moving to Sweden and, hopefully won’t have to take this route again before it’s finished.
And we had such a lovely stay at the hotel last night. Perfectly placed and a room with a door to a grassy area directly outside, especially for the dogs. Massive bed and separate toilet and shower room. It was very comfortable with a late check out. Bliss.
And then a hellish drive today.
There was one moment of casual madness when Mirinda decided she’d had enough motorway and took to the back streets. There were a few frantic navigational adjustments and we set off across the German countryside.
I looked at the approximate time to our destination and the length of driving time and despaired. It was turning into a marathon journey.
We stopped at a small parking area, with a toilet and an odd little building.
It was here that we decided to rejoin the legions on the motorway.
Then there was the horrendous rain to contend with. Not that it seems to bother the Germans. At one point, the rain was so heavy we had to slow, because visibility was down to about three car lengths.
This didn’t stop the Germans in the fast lane. They were like blind rockets, swishing by us. They have a lot of faith in something. I’m not sure what but there’s bound to be a very long and involved German word for it.
Eventually we pulled into the guest house car park with half an hour before the restaurant closed. I sent Mirinda in for food while I sorted out the dogs.
What a horrible day.
