So we'll concentrate on the differences. One of the highlights today was Kinderdyck, the highest concentration of windmills in the Netherlands. We were fascinated to see how 8 windmills built almost 300 years ago did the work that massive diesel engines do now. They pumped the water out of the lowlands creating fantastic farmlands. Now these diesel engines have replaced them and turn Archimedean screws that lift the water up into the much higher river system.
Of course, lots of tourists come to this area and we just had to try on some comfy clogs they provide for that true Dutch experience.
Great farmlands produce great cows and we came upon some beauties just swanning around by the bike path.
Our destination for today was the Hotel Belvedete and once again we were made welcome by wonderful Dutch hosts. Schoonhoven was the centre of the silver trade in Holland. Dinner here this evening was terrific and the traffic up and down this branch of the Rhine just in front of us was intense. Barges move at a cracking pace and later on a Viking river cruise sailed by.
Once again we escaped the rain and had great riding conditions. Tomorrow we head for Utrecht, I doubt we can be so lucky again!
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Wow! We know you're in good form Julian because you appear to once again be giving waiters/restaurant staff friendly hassle!
ReplyDeleteWe love the clogs and hope that is the souvenir you and Theodora decided on purchasing?! The travel text and the pictures have been wonderful and John and I love being a part of the trip. Hello to all your travel mates!
P.S. The smoke has been horrendous these last two days. There haven't been many cyclists/runners outside and in fact, John and I just cancelled a bicycle day in Lake Country with a friend. Just too yucky!
ReplyDeleteHi Donna - we're glad you are following along. Not sure about the clogs yet, They may be too noisy for our hardwood floors. We have been following the stories of the smoke. I see there is some rain in today's forecast for Kelowna. Let's hope it materializes.
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