On 26 October, the BCW celebrated the end of the season in a sporty and relaxed atmosphere.

As is often the case, the 26 participants rode in two groups: The Espresso grouptackled the challenging route over the Wildspitz, which took them from Arth via Steinerberg, Wildspitz, Urzelenboden and Hinterberg to the Schulweg trail. The Cappuccino group chose to cross the Walchwilerberg with stops in Walchwil-Oberwil, Schönegg, Blasenberg, Unterägeri, Hürital and the Nollenhütte before finally arriving at the Aesch restaurant.

Despite the fluctuating fog line, everyone was able to enjoy some sunshine before we met up for lunch together at Restaurant Aesch. The team there spoilt us with pumpkin soup and game dishes as well as a vegetarian alternative.

We can look back on a varied season, characterised by exciting tours, wonderful nature experiences, beautiful sunsets in Walchwil and sociable moments.

The upcoming vote on the Forest Act, which we as Friends of Nature would support in principle, also provided material for discussion. Unfortunately, it remains incomplete in its current version, as the regulations for cycle routes are unclear. So far, only the Vorderbergstrasse (a road and not a trail) and the hiking trail between Untersüren and Usseregg have been designated as authorised routes.This would make biking in Walchwil unattractive for us and jeopardise the future of our association.

Nevertheless, we are looking to the future with confidence and are looking forward to the upcoming winter programme, the start of the next bike season and our twentieth anniversary year, which we will officially begin on 1 April 2025.

Henrik Steffensen