Episode 18
Exploring the Vertical Length of Europe by Motorcycle
I’d been waiting for years to take this European summer trip, and when the time finally came, I knew it had to be something special.
We started in Malaga and worked our way north, making an important stop in Normandy—a place where history comes to life. From there, we pushed on through northern Germany, Denmark, and took a ferry to southern Norway, where the adventure really kicked in.
Reaching the Nordkapp, the northernmost point of Europe, felt like riding on the edge of the world. Afterward, we headed south through Sweden and Finland, then crossed into the Baltic countries. These regions, rich in history and architecture, were incredible to experience. We then rode through Poland and the Czech Republic. One night we even enjoyed some Hungarian goulash, which capped off a day of riding through Slovakia and popping into Hungary for their delicious food.
Finishing the trip in Austria, Switzerland, and the Alps was the perfect way to end. Altogether, it was 9,000 miles of stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and moments that will stay with me forever.
After all those miles, it was time to repair the bikes and reflect on what was truly an unforgettable journey.
Every trip starts with a spark of curiosity, and this one was no different.
I found myself wondering about Norway’s mystical landscapes and what it would feel like to ride through the Baltic countries. I’d done a lot of research on World War II, and D-Day was another key part of the trip—an opportunity to explore the turning points of history in person.
But the more I dug into the details, the more I realized that the beauty of this trip would be in every single moment.
From the majestic fjords of Norway to the rich culture of the Baltic countries, I knew this wasn’t going to be a simple few days of sightseeing—it was going to be an adventure that lasted the entire way. And of course, once I knew I wanted to reach the Nordkapp, the northernmost tip of Europe, the rest of the route fell into place.
When I set out to ride through Europe, I knew it would be different from my usual adventures.
Europe is highly developed, and finding remote, untouched roads wasn’t easy—tour buses were everywhere. But that didn’t take away from the experience. Riding through the Austrian Alps and the beautiful landscapes of Bavaria were some of the best motorcycling I’ve ever done. Sure, I missed the dirt roads of more remote countries, but the sheer beauty of these places made up for it.
By the time I wrapped up the trip in Austria and Bavaria, I knew this ride would be unforgettable.
One of the most important parts of this trip was visiting Normandy.
I had read the books and watched the movies, but nothing compares to standing on Omaha Beach, walking through the bomb craters, and seeing the German pillboxes up close. Visiting Pegasus Bridge and hearing stories from people who lived through those events brought history to life in a way I will never forget.
But the most profound moment was walking through the American cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made.
Seeing the rows of graves was a sobering reminder of the cost of freedom, and it left me with a deep sense of gratitude for those who gave everything.
Norway was the highlight of my trip, and I was determined to reach the Nordkapp
(North Cape)
But what really caught me off guard were the small, isolated villages connected by ferries and the stunning landscapes along the way. Towering granite mountains, powerful waterfalls, and green pastures stretched for miles, with the midnight sun lighting the way.
Every mile revealed something new—whether it was the rugged mountains or the serene archipelago of the Lofoten Islands.
Norway’s beauty is unmatched, and riding through it felt like I was traveling through a living postcard.
This adventure has now come to an end and what remains is a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to see Europe in such a meaningful way. From the historical reflections at Normandy to the natural beauty of Norway, each leg of the trip provided a new perspective on life, history, and the world around us.
Traveling 9,000 miles through different countries, cultures, and landscapes is a testament to how much beauty and complexity the world holds.
This episode not only showcases the highlights of traveling through Europe by motorcycle but also captures the essence of exploration and personal growth. Every experience—whether a solemn moment in a cemetery or a breathtaking view in Norway—added layers of understanding and appreciation for the world we live in.
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