We split into three groups: some to Alkmaar’s cheese auction, others exploring Amsterdam. Alina and I cycled 44 km across canals, bridges, and new neighbourhoods, visiting markets, museums, and landmarks. Despite wind and rain, the ride revealed the city’s remarkable cycling infrastructure before we regrouped for our final dinner before our cruise.
Author Archives: lisastokes66
Europe 2026 – Day 6 – Guest Blog – Dayle
This is the link to Lisa and Alina’s day. David, Wayne and Dayle took an early train from Sloterdijkdirectly to Alkmaar, where the quite narrow streets were starting to fill with Good Friday tourists. The Alkmaar Cheese Market is the oldest and largest in the Netherlands. The tradition continues since Alkmaar had its first cheese scale in 1365. GoodContinue reading “Europe 2026 – Day 6 – Guest Blog – Dayle”
Europe 2026 – Day 5 Amsterdam
After a slower start, we took the tram to the Museum Quarter, visiting the Van Gogh Museum and nearby sites. We explored Vondelpark, neighbourhood streets, and unique landmarks before returning by tram. The day ended with dinner out and plans to split up for different adventures tomorrow across the city.
Europe 2026 – Day 4 – Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague
Journey through Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague, uncovering the city’s role in WWII and its transformation into a hub of innovation and sustainability. Experience the blend of past resilience and modern vibrancy that defines these Dutch cities.
Europe 2026 – Day 3 Amsterdam
We saw so much today, capturing over 300 photos. After breakfast, we traveled into Amsterdam, walked along canals, and explored the Rijksmuseum, learning about The Night Watch. We wandered markets, admired architecture, and ended the day tired but satisfied, with a friendly hotel cat visiting us.
Europe 2026 – Day 1 & 2 – Toronto to Amsterdam
We arrived at the airport together, checked bags quickly, and watched a brief sunset before boarding. On the flight, I monitored ventilation, slept unusually well, and woke to a disappointing breakfast. In Amsterdam, efficient transit, bicycles everywhere, a welcoming hotel, and a peaceful walk set the tone for our trip with plans for a museum tomorrow.
Europe 2026 – Trip Overview
On March 30, I will be travelling to Europe for 23 days with friends from BikeBrampton. We’re starting with an eight day Bike and Barge tour in the Netherlands, after five days exploring Amsterdam’s museums and nearby cities. After the cruise, some return home while others continue to explore Netherlands, Belgium, Poland and Germany before flying home together.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Days 11, 12 & Cost
A leisurely 31 km ride led us through Montreal’s calm streets to Jean Talon Market, lush linear parks, and iconic Fairmount Bagel. We explored repurposed streets, colourful murals, bustling pedestrian zones, and waterfront views before tackling the steep climb back to the Oratory. A full day of food, art, green spaces, and discovery.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 10
Lisa and Cindy cycle a relaxed loop through Montreal’s canals while their friends rest. They navigate a flat tire, enjoy scenic multi-use paths with autumn foliage, and stop for lunch at a café. Later they ride through LaSalle and Verdun’s bike-friendly streets, and climb up to the basilica — only to get locked inside unexpectedly.
Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 9
We enjoyed the best hotel breakfast yet at the whimsical Days Inn Berthierville before setting out on a cool, sunny ride along the St. Lawrence. Smooth roads, fall colours, and a light tailwind made for effortless cycling—until another flat delayed us an hour. Crossing into Montreal, excellent bike paths led us to Saint Joseph’s Oratory, completing our 520 km journey.