Netherlands/Belgium

A Cycling Journey: Bike and Barge in Holland and Belgium

Program No. 10530RJ
From your floating home on a river barge, set out on a bicycle journey through lovely, historic towns to discover the local history, culture and art of Holland and Belgium.

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At a Glance

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Dutch provinces of Utrecht, South Holland, Brabant, Zeeland, Limburg and the Flanders region of Belgium as you barge along scenic rivers and canals and cycle past windmills and through picturesque villages. With experts aboard the barge and in the field, learn about Dutch history and architecture, Roman influence in the Netherlands, the difference between the Flemish and the Walloons and much more.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Intermediate to experienced cyclists. Cycling up to 20-30 miles (five hours) daily on primarily flat terrain with frequent stops. Walking one mile on uneven terrain, standing for up to two hours and climbing stairs.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Learn about Antwerp’s medieval and Renaissance architecture, and admire Rubens' masterpieces in its Gothic cathedral.
  • Cycle to the charming 13th-century trading town of Bergen op Zoom and Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands.
  • Experience the canals of Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands.

General Notes

Program itinerary subject to change due to water levels, lock and bridge schedules and local conditions.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Hendrik Robberecht
Hendrik Robberecht holds a degree in art history and archaeology from the University of Ghent. He has arranged study explorations for Flemish leaders in Belgium and taught courses in modern and contemporary art through the Flanders Tourism Office. His hobbies include listening to classical music and opera, travel, interior design, contemporary visual arts, and architecture.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Hendrik Robberecht
Hendrik Robberecht View biography
Hendrik Robberecht holds a degree in art history and archaeology from the University of Ghent. He has arranged study explorations for Flemish leaders in Belgium and taught courses in modern and contemporary art through the Flanders Tourism Office. His hobbies include listening to classical music and opera, travel, interior design, contemporary visual arts, and architecture.
Profile Image of Kees Grandia
Kees Grandia View biography
Kees Grandia was born and raised in the city of Rotterdam. He received a teaching certificate in Dutch and English at the teachers training college in Delft and studied history at the University of Leiden and the University of Texas in Austin. In 1999, he returned to education at the Albeda College as a teacher of Dutch to immigrants. Kees currently works as an educational manager with Albeda College in Rotterdam. He enjoys a game of tennis, loves opera, and is interested in American politics.
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All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
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16 days
15 nights
29 meals
14 B 1 L 14 D
DAY
1
In Transit
In Flight
DAY
2
Arrive, Transfer to Utrecht, Bicycle Fitting, Welcome Dinner
Vianen
L,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: There will be no biking today which provides an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after your international flight. Motorcoach time approximately 1 hour (30 miles). Barging time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Morning: Join the Group Leader and your fellow Road Scholars at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to board a motorcoach to the picturesque village of de Zaanse Schans just north of Amsterdam. We will visit a klompenmaker and observe the art of wooden shoe production.

Lunch: Enjoy an authentic taste of the Netherlands at a village restaurant located in an 18th-century grain barn. The restaurant specializes in Dutch-style pancakes, savory or sweet treats, which can measure almost a foot in diameter, and often eaten as a main course.

Afternoon: We proceed by motorcoach to the barge moored in Amsterdam and then motor to Utrecht. Orientation: The Group Leader, barge captain and crew will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. A support vehicle will accompany the group while biking each day in the event of emergency situations. Upon arrival in Vianen, bicycles will be fitted to the participant and testing will take place to insure participants are able to safely start, stop, and control their bicycle. Periods in the daily schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: Aboard the barge, enjoy a three-course plated set menu featuring tasty local cuisine with coffee, tea or water. Other beverages are available for purchase that can be charged to your tab and settled prior to departure with Euro cash or by credit card on the last night on board. Dinner each night will follow this description.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY
3
Barge to Schoonhoven, Kinderdijk, Willemstad, Dutch History
Willemstad
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 18 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Barging time is approximately 2 hours.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge, the breakfast buffet will offer a variable hot entrée each day as well as meats, cheeses, eggs, yogurt, cereals, breads, juices, and hot beverages. Breakfast each morning will follow this description.

Morning: After a hearty breakfast, join your Group Leader in the salon for a presentation on safety, rules of the road, and the Corner System, the way in which we navigate throughout the course of this program, as you barge to Schoonhoven, a town known for its silversmiths. Then bicycle to Kinderdijk for an unbelievable view of a row of 19 historic windmills constructed in the mid-18th century to prevent flooding and to drain the surrounding area of water.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Afternoon: Board the barge in Alblasserdam and continue on to Willemstad. Before dinner, we'll attend a lecture on board by a local historian on the history of the Netherlands.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure. Your evenings are free to spend time with new Road Scholar friends, relax, or go exploring on your own.

DAY
4
Medieval Bergen op Zoom Lecture, Zeeland, Barge to Antwerp
Antwerp
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 27 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Barging time is approximately 2 hours.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Before we leave Willemstad, a local expert will show us the well-preserved Fort Sabina, built in 1811 by Napoleon. We will then bicycle to Tholen. In 1953 a major flood disaster hit the provinces of Zeeland and Brabant. A combination of wind and high tide caused the sea to flood land up to 20 feet above sea level. The former island of Tholen almost disappeared.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in Tholen.

Afternoon: The barge is waiting for us in Tholen, so you will have some free time to explore before we bike back. Once onboard, we will cruise to Antwerp and pass through the imposing Kreekrak locks uniquely engineered to reduce fresh water loss and prevent salinization.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: Enjoy and evening stroll around Antwerp with your Group Leader.

DAY
5
History of Antwerp Lecture, Free Time, Belgian History
Antwerp
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: There will be no biking today to allow us to explore Antwerp.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Explore Antwerp, the diamond capital of Belgium. Attend a lecture by a local expert on the city's history followed by a field trip to explore the elegant guild houses of the 16th century and the cathedral, home to three of Rubens' works, including his masterpiece, Deposition.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: This afternoon, we will visit the Red Star Line Museum, where a local expert will explain why Europeans emigrated to the U.S. Afterwards, take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Antwerp. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. Try French fries with a platter of mussels - nothing is more Belgian! Sample one of the many beers brewed by monks; it is not likely we'll find these brands stateside.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At your leisure.

DAY
6
Barge the Albert Canal, Heather Fields, Hasselt
Hasselt
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 24 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Barging time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Depart Antwerp by barge via the Albert Canal, a busy commercial hub. Learn about the governing and operation of the canal's locks with the group leader as the barge cruises into the Kempen, a peaceful region of moors, heather fields and forests.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: After lunch (which might be a picnic!), bicycle on a quiet trail along the Albert Canal to Hasselt.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
7
Hasselt Field Trip & Lecture, Dutch Gin, Maastricht
Maastricht
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 26 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Explore Hasselt with a local historian to learn about the 12th-century cathedral with its 18th-century tower, as well as the patrician houses on the big square, which date to the 1600s and have names such as "The Pelican" and "The Sword."

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Before leaving Hasselt, look into the town's specialty: Dutch gin, which has nothing to do with the Dutch, but that's what the Belgians call it. We'll not want to try this drink during the day as there is still a way to bicycle toward Maastricht after crossing the border into the Netherlands.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
8
Maastricht Field Trip & Lecture, Free Time
Maastricht
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: There will be no biking today to allow us to explore Maastricht.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: After breakfast, we will hear a lecture about the industrial and cultural history of Maastricht. We will then discover the beautifully preserved city of Maastricht with a local expert. Learn about its Roman roots and explore the Gothic St. Servaas Church and Hellgate, the only gate left from 1229.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in Maastricht.

Afternoon: Free Time: Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Maastricht. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. Don't miss the chance to sample beer, gin or a hot chocolate at one of the many terraces.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
9
Barge to Born, Thorn, Limburg Province, Roermond
Roermond
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Barging time is approximately 3 hours. Biking distance is 24 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Barge to Born via the Juliana Canal, where we'll disembark at the locks. From here, bicycle to Thorn for a field trip with your Group Leader to the White Village on Belgium's border known for its patterned cobblestone streets and white painted houses. The only non-white building is the 14th-century church.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in Thorn.

Afternoon: Pleasant biking from Thorn to Roermond as we enjoy the homes around us with their little gardens and the owners' cars parked in front (not many homes have a garage). You'll note that cars in the Netherlands tend to be smaller than those in North America.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
10
Venlo, Sint-Martinuskerk, Limburg's Forest, Arcen
Venlo
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 30 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Bicycle to Venlo with your Group Leader for a field trip to this ancient city dating back to the Romans. As we explore, notice the many different Dutch dialects, including the local Limburg dialect with its soft "g" sounds.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Before leaving Venlo, join your Group Leader and a local expert for a visit to the 17th-century Sint-Martinuskerk, home to an exquisite Baroque pulpit, 20th-century stained glass windows, and a tower that was rebuilt after World War II. You are welcome to continue exploring Venlo with free time this afternoon.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
11
Arcen Castle Gardens, Paddestoelen, Cuyk
Cuyk
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 29 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: The day starts with a ride to Arcen with a field trip led by your Group Leader to the gardens at the local castle. Today’s trip takes us close to the German border. Don’t look for any customs people, either here or in Belgium; the Europeans have done away with border checkpoints years ago.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like. The province of Limburg is known for its vlaais, a delicious pastry you may want to sample.

Afternoon: The Netherlands has more bicycle paths than any country in the world and all are marked by road signs in the form of paddestoelen, or mushrooms, which have a number on top corresponding to a detailed bicycle road map, as well as directions to nearby towns. End the day in Cuyk on the Maas River.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: Enjoy a lecture on the history of the Netherlands by a local expert.

DAY
12
Brabant, Locks of Lith, Binnendieze Boat Tour, Den Bosch
Heusden
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 26 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: We will barge this morning to Lith then start riding our bikes. We are in the province of Brabant, where we will explore small villages, taking in the local customs and admiring the well-tended homes. Gardening is big in the Netherlands and it shows!

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like in Hertogenbosch.

Afternoon: The capital of Brabant is Hertogenbosch but the Dutch call it Den Bosch. Similarly, the Netherlands' seat of govenment is Gravenhage, but the Dutch refer to it as Den Haag. After lunch we head for Den Bosch where the painter Hieronymus Bosch (1450-1516) lived and worked. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, including its devil-shaped gargoyles. Explore the canals of Den Bosch on a field trip and boat ride through the medieval Binnendieze, traveling underneath the city. Later, we will continue our ride to Heusden to meet the barge.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
13
Heusden, Loevestein Castle, Gorinchem, Vianen
Vianen
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Biking distance is 25 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Barging time is approximately 3 hours.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: We start our ride to the village of Heusden on the river Maas. During a field trip, explore the walled-town of Heusden with your Group Leader.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Our afternoon ride takes us to Loevestein, where a well-preserved castle, built in 1357, beckons. Join a local docent for a guided exploration of this historic gem. From the castle, cross by ferry to Gorinchem and see a 16th-century Gothic tower, slightly leaning to one side. Continue by barge to Vianen to stay for the night.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
14
Vecht River, Barge to Amsterdam
Amsterdam
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: Barging time is approximately 2 hours. Biking distance is 11 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Enjoy one last ride on your two-wheeler from Breukelen, located on the River Vecht, to Nigtevegt before we motor toward Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands. We will pass many house boats where folks live year round.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: After lunch we meet up with our barge and relax on deck as we motor to Amsterdam, our final destination, where it all began.

Dinner: Aboard the barge.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
15
Amsterdam's Canals, Free Time, Farewell Dinner
Amsterdam
B,D
Barge La Mar

Activity note: There will be no biking today to allow us to explore Amsterdam.

Breakfast: Aboard the barge.

Morning: Your Group Leader leads you on a journey along Amsterdam's canals to the city center. The Amstel River is crossed by several canals lined with beautiful 16th- and 17th-century homes with a variety of different gable styles.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free Time: Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Amsterdam. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. If you haven’t already been there, venture to the Anne Frank House or the Rijksmuseum. If you want to relax, seek out one of the local cafés to sip a Heineken or cup of coffee while watching the locals.

Dinner: Aboard the barge. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

DAY
16
Program Concludes, Departures
In Flight
B

Activity note: Barge check-out time is 9:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers. Transfer from the barge to the airport is approximately 30 minutes (15 miles / 22 kilometers).

Breakfast: Aboard the barge. This concludes our program.

Morning: Morning transfer to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport for departures. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!






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