Chur (Switzerland)

I have been looking forward to today's ride as it takes me from Germany, across Austria, Lichtenstein and into Switzerland. Don't think I'll ever stop getting a thrill from crossing an international border by bike. There is a feeling of accomplishment and adventure, especially if that country you venture into had not yet been cycled.
I cross briefly into Austria, along the edge of the elegant Bodinsee lake, and swiftly on through Bregenz. Not a new country to my cycling experience, so the border crossing is not so momentous.
Boldly going where I have not been before, I pass into Lichtenstein, barely realising that I have crossed the border. I had thought that this wealthy principality (not country), would show a striking difference the moment I rolled in. It is the second wealthiest "country" in the world, but actually I see nothing on my 20km trek through it to make me pause. Maybe the ordinariness is how they stop riff-raff from staying too long. The capital, Vaduz, reminds me of Luxembourg city. Since most of the wealth here comes from banking and as a tax haven, the two cities share some of their financial origins. Big cars and flashy shops do not a welcoming atmosphere make.
Maybe it's my bias, but Switzerland is much more beautiful. What might contribute to my bias is that it has an excellent bicycle infrastructure. It really is the prettiest place I have bikes through, at least on the German side. More about that later.
Chur is a very modern-looking city. So modern in fact, that there are apartment complexes in every building stage. Heinz is my host for the evening and what a spectacular view from his penthouse. Not only that but dinner is a delicious homemade pizza.
I get a chance to explore the old part of the city the next day, after we have a leisurely breakfast. The surrounding mountains cast shadows on the apartment, adding an extra breathtaking aspect to an unforgettable stay. Coffee was good too.