HU Austria Adventure Weekend 2023
Horizons Unlimited FIRST Annual Austria Adventure Weekend -
Gasthof ESCHAU, Palfau, Austria
Thursday September 21 - Sunday September 24, 2023
Horizons Unlimited Austria Adventure Weekend Schedule
The event is taking place from Thursday September 21 - Sunday September 24, 2023, at Gasthof ESCHAU, Palfau, Austria. This great venue is perfect for riding, and that's the focus of the weekend!
Schedule
Evening presentations, workshops/challenges and daily ride outs.
Click here for the schedule >>
Presenters at HU Austria 2023 - So Far!
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Lorraine Spence, Butterflies and Flat TyresZurich to Singapore via Siberia |
LORRAINE SPENCE is a South Africa-born, British citizen living in Switzerland who has been riding since age 15, but stopped for 22 years, and started again at age 42. In 2012, she took her first transcontinental bike trip across Asia and has since travelled through North, Central, and South America, New Zealand, and all over Europe.
I'm a passionate traveler, having backpacked through many countries. In 2012, I took my first transcontinental bike trip across Asia. Subsequently travelling through North (2023), Central (2016), and South (2015) America, New Zealand (2019), and all over Europe. I can think of no better way to see the world than by bike. This all started with a great idea, and yet no idea, of where to begin. I'll explain how I got from my couch to the road, and why I love travelling alone, but also spend time travelling with other people.
The highlight, and biggest challenge of the trip was riding the BAM road in Siberia. Sometimes even the best laid plans can lead to disaster, a seized engine, or even an appearance in a Russian court. It's at times like this that the riding community shows its best and worst sides, but I would let nothing stand in the way of me completing my trip.
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Tom Possod, Dudes of DustAlone or in a Group, Old or New Bike |
TOM POSSOD started to travel at the age of eight with a backpack and was brought home by the police. As soon as he got his driver's license, he started to the Balkans (formally known as Yugoslavia). After several trips to four continents by offroad-car, backpack, and motorcycles, he quit his job in 2015 followed by a life-changing solo trip to Dakar. Now he is organizing adventures on motorcycles and working as a consultant.
On my first trip to Dakar, I was riding solo and soon found out that traveling alone is great, but has some showstoppers, like going offroad. I did a second trip in 2022 / 2023 with one of my best buddies, Enrico from the famous Loose Screw. We started our "Yamaha Tenere 40th Anniversary Trip" to Dakar in October 2022 with Enrico on the first Tenere (XT600Z) and Tom on the newest one (Tenere World Raid). The amazing trip along the old Paris-Dakar had a lot of surprises and adventures. We had good times, we had failures here and there, and both of us are happy with our decision of bikes. We are now able to answer the question: "Solo or group to Dakar?" for ourselves.
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Heike Schmidt and Toshi Meier-Brook, A Will and a WayA Will and a Way? A Will and Away! |
If you think that needing a wheelchair and long term motorcycle travel do not mix well, you haven't yet met Heike and Toshi. With no muscular power in her legs, and very little in arms and hands, Heike not only needs a wheelchair, but also the aid of a personal assistant for most of her everyday activities. This has never kept her from traveling.
Heike and Toshi discovered motorcycle travel together in 2012. 2018 saw them going on a big trip scheduled for two years. Starting from New York, they traveled down to Buenos Aires, then transferred the bike to Cape Town to travel home from there. Not following a master plan, a lot of unforeseen events shaped the trip on-the-go. And often, the sidecar, the wheelchair, and our open personalities helped to make big memories out of small encounters. Prepare for a very personal, open-hearted report on what happened during the 21 months of their big trip.
HEIKE SCHMIDT has been using a wheelchair and 24/7 personal assistance for more than 40 years. Her advanced basic necessities do not keep her from long distance motorcycle travel.
TOSHI MEIER-BROOK rides the leaner sidecar setup with her wheelchair strapped to the back, and doubles up as her assistant. Together, they have now traveled more than 80,000 km on several trips, including a 21-month trip ended by the covid pandemic.
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Israel Gillette and DandyTails from the Trails / |
1) Tails from the Trails
Adventuring with dogs
The story of how I joined my love of motorcycle adventuring with my love for my travel companion, Daisy; and the development of my new sidekick, Dandy, into the finest Moto Mutt in the history of the world.
2) Tennessee to Tierra del Fuego
A fledgling adventurer leaves Tennessee in search of a new way of life
In June 2011, while on break from university, and out of jail on $30,000 bond, I left Tennessee heading south for the Texas-Mexican border aboard a nine-year-old R1150GS with 75,000 miles on it, and a goal of reaching Argentina. I didn't have much money, a smart phone, or any real idea how I'd make it.
ISRAEL GILLETTE has ridden fast throgh 60+ countries on five continents, often accompanied by his furry companion (currently, Dan, and formerly, Daisy). His life has been nothing but trouble. It's been one Hell of an adventure. See more of Israel and Dan's adventures on Instagram: @moto_mutt_international
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Jakob Weinknecht, Der.WeinknechtAndroid-Based GPS Navigation |
I have done and am doing training for GPS navigation for motorbike riders for more than ten years. In the beginning, it was strongly focused on Garmin devices, software, and applications. Meanwhile, alternatives based on Android outrun the possibilities provided by Garmin and, at the same time, various devices prepared for outdoor used are available on the market. Concept for the proposal is to provide a condensed workshop of using Android as basis for route and track planning as well GPS navigation on the bike, including state-of-the-art solutions for controlling the device directly from the handlebar.
No, I am neither a seller nor influencer for any of the products, applications, or services. I have been much more into this field for many years, including supporting others in developing solutions for rally notebook navigation and more.
JAKOB WEINKNECT is a 46-year-old traveling by motorcycle since 2002. Always searching for the roads and tracks less traveled, and even participating from time to time in amateur Rally. His focus is on navigation and travel through remote areas and wonderful landscapes, so it's no surprise that he has built up three travel and two rally bikes throughout these years on his own.
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Hermine ObermannFrom Dream to Reality (Presented in German) |
Have you heard? Excitement and fear at the same time? Once you listen to this deep inner call and do the things, you can make your dreams come true like I did. From pillion to solo rider to North Cape. Hast du es gehört? Die innere Begeisterung und Angst zur gleichen Zeit?
Wenn du einmal auf diesen inneren Ruf gehört hast, die nötigen Dinge tust, können deine Träume real werden. Von Sozia zur Solobikerin zum Nordkap, in 3 Jahren. Anhand meiner eigenen Geschichte mเธฃเธ–chte ich dir die Schritte mitgeben, wie du den Mut und die Begeisterung aufbringen kannst, Unmögliches möglich zu machen. Presentation ist auf deutsch.
HERMINE OBERMANN's life changed in 2019. She discovered the world of motorcycling and traveling. First as pillion, then she got her license and was inspired by a presentation about motorcycle traveling. Boom! It hit her! Since then, she pursued her dream and made it into reality.
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Martin Litschauer, world_spins_as_fast_as_we_ridePhotography During Motorbike Travels |
From novice to advanced, from using the smartphone to the big DSLR with tripods, I will show you my equipement and what is possible on such travels. It is not always about the pictures, you also have to present it in the right way on social media, this is also a part of my journeys. I will show you my pictures from my recent six-week trip to Iceland, where I stayed most of the time at campsites and saw some amazing sights on one of the most beautiful places on earth.
MARTIN LITSCHAUER's passion is travelling the world with his motorcycle and camera, seeing the people and cultures, living the highs and lows. From Iceland to the Sahara, from volcanoes to deserts, over 10,000 km later, he is richer by many experiences and looks forward to many more adventures.
Educational Sessions
Because Horizons Unlimited events are about informing, not just inspiring, we also have a great lineup of educational sessions for you...
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Simon WatsonDIY Electrics |
In this workshop, Simon demonstrates basic fault-finding techniques that can be used whilst on the road. He will specifically explain simple methods using only basic equipment (light bulb and wire). Additionally, a basic description of wiring in auxiliary components in both standard 12-volt and can-bus systems,
SIMON WATSON spent many years competing in local and national Land Rover Trials in the United Kingdom. He returned to motorcycles after a 20-year break when he moved to Austria. He currently rides a Triumph Tiger 800 and a Triumph Sprint RS, and has ridden around Europe and into the Balkans.
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Arjan BusscherOff-Grid Living (Workshop) |
This workshop will focus on how to live a semi-nomadic lifestyle; how to choose the right gear; how to cook powerful food and be happy even in bad conditions in a tent. I will explain my wood-burning stove system in my teepee and show you how to quickly and easily cook up some powerful meals with minimal fuel and effort.
ARJAN BUSSCHER traveled for up to six months a year for 15 years, all around Europe and beyond. In recent years, the TET has been my focus. I prefer to ride short days and then set up a decent campsite, getting in touch with nature as much as I can.
How about you?
We're all here to learn, and there's LOTS to learn! We want to do more presentations and seminars - but we need volunteers to give them! Any topic you can contribute having to do with motorcycle travel, maintenance, planning etc, lasting 20 minutes or more, would be great. Please sign up here.
Online registration is now closed,
but we have plenty of room,
so come and join in!
The Adventure Travel Zone
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Exhibitors - So Far
KTM will be on-site with their 2024 model exhibition bikes. You are invited to go for test rides and to check out the latest in KTM gear! |
Mosko Moto will be here with adventure and dualsport motorcycles outfitted with a fantastic array of their adventure-ready soft luggage. Check out comfortable and functional apparel, all to meet your needs perfectly. |
If you know of any other motorcycle or travel equipment vendors or tour operators who should be there, please suggest it to them! Vendors please contact me for details.
Facilities for a Fantastic Four Days
Gasthof ESCHAU, Palfau, Austria
Gasthof ESCHAU | Fam. Rainer https://www.gasthof-eschau.at/de/
Eschau 102, 8923 Palfau, Austria (Latitude: 47.690273 | Longitude: 14.781493 | Altitude 660m)
Tel.: +43 (0) 3638 / 274
Mat has found a great venue in the Salzatal with stunning views and beautiful crystal clear rivers!
Facilities
- Separate Camping Area just for us
- 2 Fireplaces
- Free Wi-Fi
- Toilets and nice showers (included in price)
- Austrian Restaurant on site (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Good for hiking
- Archery and rope walk garden on site
- Rooms are also available (up to 30 people)
Camping
Official campsite with showers and toilets. Camping fees are not included in registration and have to be paid in cash upon arrival:
13€ per person/per night in a tent
15€ per person per night in a camper
Accommodation:
Rooms available on site (please pre-book directly) https://www.gasthof-eschau.at/de/uebernachtung/zimmer
PLEASE NOTE: Booking a room DOES NOT register you for the meeting, you will still have to register as usual and pay the full registration fee.
Food:
Breakfast is available (pre-book day before on-site) for 11€ and is a full buffet with tea, coffee, cereal and freshly cooked eggs. There is a restaurant on site which proves À la carte meals from 11:30am to 7pm.
PRE-REGISTRATION PRICING FOR FULL PASSESIncludes admission to all slide shows, workshops and demos. |
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Pre-Register & Pay before: |
Event Price |
1 Mar 2023 |
€35 (saves €20) |
14 Sep 2023 |
€45 (saves €10) |
AT THE EVENT PRICING (APPLIES AFTER 14 Sep)Pay Cash on Arrival |
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Full Pass |
€55 |
I've already registered - I just want to pay!
days to go!
Join the discussion:
On the HUBB!
On Facebook!
What happens at HU events?
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Comments about HU Events
"So many trips, tips, subjects, discussions, questions, answers, experiences, insights... I could go on and on. I will be back, and back, and back."
"It was like being with family... a friendly group with shared love of adventure."
"Everyone was humble, genuine, and encouraging, and I really needed that kind of 'we're all just people' kind of atmosphere."
"You'll see and hear the most useful ideas on so many subjects that it boggles the mind."
"Full of very inspiring people who got me fired up again and motivated for my next trip!"
"What a fantastic inspirational weekend...we will be back."
"I have picked up so much information... and met some new friends and wonderful people."
"...a new league of awesomeness."
"Great atmosphere and camaraderie, especially at dinner time, and interesting presentations."
"I have learned so much, made some great mates and met some of the best people. I was buzzing by the time I got home. I have a little trip planned and just can't wait to get out there."
For more about HU Events, see some magazine articles here.
You can help!
If you have a few minutes, please download the poster (Adobe pdf format) and print off a few and hand them round your club or your local bike shop or anywhere seems like a good place.
Poster in pdf format (1.4MB) full colour Event poster:
POSTCARD
ENGLISH Postcard in pdf format (450 kb) full colour Event postcard, can be printed 4 to a page (1.2 MB):
DEUTSCHE Postkarte im pdf format (450 kb)
und Vollfarbige Veranstaltungspostkarte, kann 4 auf eine Seite gedruckt werden (1.2 MB):
You may need to right click and choose "save target as..."
Thanks!
Join the Volunteer Crew
From welcoming travellers at the gate, to taking care of the campsite and making sure all the presentations run smoothly, the success of every HU event relies on the enthusiasm of its volunteer crew.
"What a wonderful bunch of people. I had no idea how much fun I'd have by helping out!"
Volunteering is a great way to make new friends, get more involved with Horizons Unlimited and have loads of fun! You can sign up to volunteer when you register for the meeting, OR click here if you have already registered and want to add volunteering.
Be a Presenter
We're inviting submissions for presentations, so whether you're attending the event or exploring a distant continent, if you've got a story to tell or expertise to share we'd like to hear from you.
We love to hear stories about your travel adventures, especially if you have great pics! Also, practical how-to sessions such as roadside cooking, navigation / GPS, trip prep and planning, adventure motorcycling medicine, packing light, setting your bike up, communications / blogging from the road, self-publishing your story, yoga for bikers, bodging / bike maintenance, self-defense, photography, videography, tire repair, safe riding techniques, how to pick up your bike, off-road riding, all are of interest.
There are 45 minute and 100 minute sessions available for talks, workshops, demos and live web chats.
Click here to submit your ideas
PLEASE NOTE:
Submitting a Presenter registration DOES NOT mean you will automatically be included in the schedule, as we can have more presenters than available presentation slots. We will confirm one way or the other as soon as we can (but not immediately!)
Austria Venue Location
Gasthof Eschau, 102, Palfau, 8923 Eschau, Austria
A fantastic location in the beautiful Gesäuse region of Styria in the heart Austria with stunning mountain scenery and crystal clear rivers! See the Danube (1h) or visit Erzberg (2h) or just ride the amazing local roads.
47.69175,14.78142
Information about the area
Places to go / things to see (before or after the event !) :
Wasserlochklamm https://wasserlochklamm.at/en/
One of the most popular destinations in Landl/Austria is the Palfauer Wasserlochklamm. This is ensured by a breezy suspension bridge, numerous wooden staircases and bridges, five intoxicating waterfalls, a wonderful view over the river Salza and the mystery all around “Wasserloch” itself.
Erzberg
https://www.abenteuer-erzberg.at/en
The Erzberg is the largest open-pit mine in Central Europe, the most important ore deposit in the Alps, a symbol of industrialisation and a central part of the Iron Route.
More importantly, it's the site of the World Famous Erzberg Rodeo, World Xtreme Enduro Supreme, part of the FIM World Hard Enduro Championship.
KrausCave
https://geodorf.com/ausflugsziel/
kraushoehle-gams/
Become a spelunker and learn about "The world's first electrically lit cave", "The largest gypsum-bearing cave in the German-speaking world." and "The only show cave in Europe where hydrogen sulfide converts lime to gypsum.” - Guided tours only!
Austria Tourism
https://www.austria.info/en
If you have any more links or details for the area please let us know.
Local Hosts
Your hosts for the FIRST Annual HU Austria Adventure Weekend is Mat & Karla Docherty.
We're VERY grateful to Mat & Karla for stepping up and making it happen with a lot of legwork and effort.
We can always use help on the day - please volunteer to help out for a couple of hours when you register!
HU Events Refund Policy
Like adventures, life can throw surprises our way. Stuff happens. While we would love for you to join the fun and connect with everyone at our events, we understand that you (and the funds) may be needed elsewhere. We'll catch up later!
On our side, we know you appreciate that we have financial commitments to venues and caterers!
The best way to let us know that you're unable to attend an event is to reply to the Registration Confirmation Email you got from us when you first signed up.
Up to 30 days prior to event start, we will refund all fees in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration and all fees to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year.
Up to 15 days prior to event start, we will refund only the camping/accommodation and food packages in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU Event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
Within 15 days of the event start, there will be no refunds. At your request, we can apply your registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
If WE cancel an event:
We are constantly evaluating the situation for every event, and very much err on the side of caution. We will endeavour to announce "Final" decision one month or more before the event, but the situation COULD change closer to time, and we could be required by law to cancel.
If we are forced to cancel for COVID or natural disaster, we will roll your registration over to next year automatically.
If you want to transfer your existing registration to any other HU event in the world, just let us know.
Need a full refund? PLEASE REPLY to your original Registration Confirmation email to make it easier for us to find. If you can't find it, please email a request to: events-c (AT) horizonsunlimited(-)com with the subject line: "Refund event-name event-year"
Next HU Events
HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.
2023:
2024:
- California: April 18-21
- Virginia: April 25-28
- Germany Summer: May
- CanWest: July 11-14
- Switzerland: August
- Romania: August
- Ecuador: September
- France: September
- Austria: September 12-15
- South Africa
- Queensland: Oct 4-7
- Germany Autumn: Nov.
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
New to Horizons Unlimited?
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80 G/S motorcycle. The website, HUBB forum and regular events across the globe have inspired thousands of people to follow their dreams and take the road less travelled.

Membership - Show you're proud to be a Horizons Unlimited Traveller!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love overland adventure travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events such as this one (18 this year!); we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, the HUBB or to receive the e-zine. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
You can join at a reduced rate as part of your meeting registration. Note that new Memberships with your Meeting Registration are applied as of the Meeting date or as soon as possible thereafter, not earlier, unless you make a special request in the Comments box when you register.