Cycling down the Romantische Strasse in December

Clothing recommendations for cycling the Romantic Road in December? Average temps the last 12 years have been around freezing (0C/32F) in December in that part of central Germany--and that's air temps without any consideration of wind chill from being outside cycling.

Sounds pretty cold and nasty.. um,, but I bet you are going to say you are used to it,, as I don't think Scotland is exactly tropical at that time of year either . You Scots are a hardy lot,, I would die in that cold on a bike,, I am definately more a museum and hot chocolate type girl,, LOL

Gore tex. Gore tex and fleece. Tops and bottoms.

I bike all winter in Boston and I'd imagine the weather is similar. My big issues are feet, hands, and face. Toes get cold biking since your feet aren't actually moving that much, be sure you're well covered there. Thick gloves and a balaclava or face mask round me out to keep me happy. A headband or ear wrap can give extra coverage for your ears without adding too much bulk under a helmet, if you wear one.

Other than that, get some good lights (and a headlamp or a light affixed to your head/helmet is great for looking at signs in an unfamiliar place, as well) and maybe a reflective vest or sash and go!

Well, as to hotels - you're on your bikes, so you are really flexible, even more so than people in cars. In Germany, a lot of really small towns and villages have a Gasthof or restaurant with a few guestrooms for rent at very reasonable prices (and no luxuries like en suite bathrooms). You wont be zooming through there at top speed and can stop whenever you want. In my experience, the food is usually tasty and not expensive and the places are frequented by locals rather than tourists. Places to eat are your least worry in Germany, we have found great little restaurants in the most surprising places. If you're planning to stay in larger cities or towns, google their websites (often in English if needed) and check out what the tourist board offers. They often mail out their info (in several languages in the same brochure) right away. As to clothing - I would at all times wear very large reflective something, like a vest, so you'll be very visible to drivers and I would certainly wear long johns so my legs would stay warm. Wear a money belt! Do you have to consider dogs when you're biking? My favorite publication for Germany is the Baedeker guide book. It comes in an all Germany version and in major cities and areas versions. Also, try the German tourist office, they may have something just for the Romantic Road. For guidebooks, you can check out Amazon if your local bookstores or libraries don't have what you need. Linda, this sounds like a fun trip! Send us an update when it's over! Anna