Day 5: The Last Quiet Miles

Our final day of riding took us deeper into the countryside, following those marvelous forest tracks that had become my favorite part of the tour. The morning light fell softly as we pedaled through wildflower meadows and pastures where curious cows lifted their heads as if to greet us. It was the kind of easy, rolling terrain that makes you wish the trip were just a little longer.

By early afternoon we reached Viscri, a village that looks like time politely stepped aside and let it be. Peter took us to meet a few of the local artisans: a blacksmith who still shapes iron by hand, and a group of women famous for their woolen socks and woven goods. Watching them work was a reminder that some traditions survive simply because enough people care to keep them alive.

At the fortified church, our final one of the tour, we arrived at just the right moment to catch a short organ concert. Listening to the music echo through the old stone, felt like a fitting goodbye to the Saxon world we’d been cycling through all week.

We spent our last night in yet another lovingly restored Saxon house, ending the trip gathered around a home-cooked dinner that tasted like something straight from a family kitchen (probably, because it was). Warm soup, mamaliga, the local version of polenta, and a simple apple pie for dessert.

As I packed up my bags later that night, I couldn’t help feeling that this week had opened a door I’m not quite ready to close. There are more corners of this region, and of my own family history, I’d love to explore. My thanks to Peter, Robbie, and Wiredonkey Cycling Tours for guiding us so thoughtfully. Something tells me this won’t be my last ride with them.