The train’s accommodations were surprisingly comfortable. While each sleeping quarters possessed triple bunk beds, we purchased all three. So we folded the second level bed and as a result, we significantly increased our available space. The bedding was surprisingly good quality as well. The space, while small, felt more like a nice micro hotel. Furthermore, the shower was spotlessly clean and both nicer and hotter than the shower back home. Ride quality was relatively smooth. The electric train was so quiet that without inertia you wouldn’t know you had left the station. We were able to fall asleep peacefully and awoke 600 km closer to our meeting point with destiny… or at least the awaiting Beetle. The only complaint personally, was the food quality available during breakfast. Julia enjoyed hers, but I regretted my selection. Regardless, the overall northward trip was a wonderful experience and above expectation.

Well rested and adequately fed, we departed the electric train bright and early around 9 AM. Stefan, the seller, arrived promptly to pick us up and drive us to his property. Upon arrival there, once again expectations were different than reality. Spread across both sides of the road going deep into the woods, Stefan had over 100 vehicles. From a rally ready Mk 1 VW Golf to Scania commercial vehicles, his collection was varied and vast. Aside from the cars themselves, Stefan collected parts and memorabilia as well. His whole garage exterior was adorned with hundreds of hubcaps. A complete BMW V12 drivetrain from the mid-nineties sat upon a water tank begging to be used in a ridiculous swap. Very tempting. Multiple barns held the cleanest cars. Beautiful all original MGs, VWs and Alfas were tucked away hoping to see the road again. Despite my usual frustration with the automotive “collector” (see synonym: Hoarder), Stefan is actively maintaining and working on the vehicles he possesses. Cars come and go, always leaving better than when they were purchased.