RCdeB in Europe

Members of the Racing Club de Blackheath yet again dug out their boots, the knee straps and lederhosen for a shorter but equally exhausting trip to Austria.

Lake Wörthersee from Pyramidenkogel Tower

Klagenfurt & RCdeB Lindwurm dragons

Klagenfurt (446m), on the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee, is the capital city of the southern Austrian province of Carinthia. Its emblem is the Lindwurm, a winged dragon, of which there is a fountain on the main square, Neuer Platz (see above). Nearby, frescoes and reliefs adorn the opulent 1500s cathedral. Baroque and Renaissance buildings line the narrow streets around Alter Platz, with its yellow 17th-century Old Town Hall. 

We were shown round by an extremely informative but apologetic guide who appeared to think he was the son of Hitler himself. However, he seemed relieved when we pointed out that at least he wasn't the son of Trump.

We had a wonderful boat trip on the Wörthersee admiring many sights and beautiful buildings by the lake, including Mahler's House at Maiernigg where he stayed 1900-1907 and worked on his 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th Symphonies in his composing hut up the hill behind.

Schloss Reifnitz on Wörthersee

Mahler House (yellow to the right) on Wörthersee

Pyramidenkogel Tower looking towards Klagenfurt

Ben & Mason up Pyramidenkogel Tower

Later we climbed the Pyramidenkogel Tower which gave us fantastic views out over the Wörthersee towards Klagenfurt and the Alps stretching to Italy and Slovenia.

We ended up having a wonderful meal at a farmstead nearby.

Lunch near the Pyramidenkogel Tower

Ben & Pete

It was an amazing trip and the winged dragons of the RCdeB surprised and delighted the local team, whom enjoyed 2 comprehensive victories. The most friendly and hospitable opposition in the most lush and beautiful place almost completely made up for the laclustre but enjoyable performance on the pitches. Certainly not a clean sheet anywhere in sight.

Full team list