Compare A Cycling Journey: Bike and Barge in Holland and Belgium by Road Scholar vs Country Roads of Belgium, Luxembourg & the Netherlands - Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1 In Transit In Flight

Day 2 Arrive, Transfer to Utrecht, Bicycle Fitting, Welcome Dinner Vianen

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Day 3 Barge to Schoonhoven, Kinderdijk, Willemstad, Dutch History Willemstad

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

After a hearty breakfast, join your Group Leader in the salon for a presentation on safety, rules of the road, and the IBT 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Aboard the barge.

Day 4 Medieval Bergen op Zoom Lecture, Zeeland, Barge to Antwerp Antwerp

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

Bicycle from Willemstad to the medieval town of Bergen op Zoom. There is even a Dutch song named for the town.

Enjoy a field trip with a local historian to learn about the history and traditions of the medieval town of Bergen op Zoom. Bicycle along a dike to the locks and board the barge which will continue on through the province of Zeeland, to Antwerp, Belgium.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 5 History of Antwerp Lecture, Free Time, Belgian History Antwerp

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

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.

Free Time: 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. Before dinner, attend a lecture on board by a local professional on Belgian history.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 6 Barge the Albert Canal, Heather Fields, Hasselt Hasselt

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

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.

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

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 7 Hasselt Field Trip & Lecture, Dutch Gin, Maastricht Maastricht

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

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."

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.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 8 Maastricht Field Trip & Lecture, Free Time Maastricht

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

Discover the beautifully preserved city of Maastricht with a local expert. Learn about its Roman roots through a lecture and field trip. Explore the Gothic St. Servaas Church and Hellgate, the only gate left from 1229.

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.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like in Maastricht.

Aboard the barge.

Day 9 Barge to Born, Thorn, Limburg Province, Roermond Roermond

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

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.

Pleasant biking 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.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 10 Venlo, Sint-Martinuskerk, Limburg's Forest, Arcen Arcen

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

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.

Before leaving Venlo, join your Group Leader 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. The journey continues, mostly on bike trails and through some forest, to Arcen, a quaint village on the River Maas.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 11 Arcen Castle Gardens, Paddestoelen, Cuyk Cuyk

Biking distance is 31 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths.

The day starts in 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.

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.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

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.

Aboard the barge.

Day 12 Brabant, Locks of Lith, Binnendieze Boat Tour, Den Bosch Den Bosch

Biking distance is 18 miles on flat to rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Barging time is approximately 3 hours.

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!

The capital of Brabant is 's Hertogenbosch but the Dutch call it Den Bosch. Similarly, the Netherlands' seat of govenment is 's 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, explore more of the capital of the province of Brabant.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 13 Heusden, Loevestein Castle, Gorinchem, Vianen Vianen

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

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.

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.

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 14 Vecht River, Barge to Amsterdam Amsterdam

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

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.

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

At leisure.

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard the barge.

Day 15 Amsterdam's Canals, Free Time, Farewell Dinner Amsterdam

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

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.

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.

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

Aboard the barge.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

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

Day 16 Program Concludes, Departures In Flight

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).

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!

Aboard the barge. This concludes our program.

Day 1: Welcome to Brussels

Airport transfers depart Brussels airport for your centrally-located hotel at 09:00, 11:00 and 14:30. After checking in, the afternoon is yours to relax. At 17:00, join your Travel Director for a visit to the cheeky Manneken Pis statue and stroll leisurely around the Grand Place, voted the most beautiful square in Europe. Your delightful first evening also includes a Welcome Dinner with wine at a local restaurant in the heart of the Old Town, with an opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers.

NH Collection Brussels Centre.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: The Battlefield of Waterloo Relaxed Start

Leaving the city limits behind, visit the Battlefield of Waterloo to learn about Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815. Immerse yourself in the action at the Panorama, where a huge 360-degree mural depicts a key moment in the raging battle. If you're feeling energetic, you can climb the 226 steps to the top of the Lion's Mound for panoramic views over the battlefield and countryside. Return to Brussels, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure. In the afternoon perhaps join an Optional Experience to the lively city of Antwerp?In the evening, choose from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening. Why not choose We Exist, a Syrian initiative supporting immigrants as they build a new life.

NH Collection Brussels Centre.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 3: Ghent and on to Bruges

In the morning, admire the contrast of the Chinese and Japanese Pavilions and the impressive, metallic spheres of the Atomium.Your journey then crosses the pasture lands of Belgian Flanders to reach Ghent, the City of Flowers, offering a fascinating cultural mix of medieval heritage and modern urban life.With a Local Expert, take a stroll through the historical streets and be mesmerised by the outstanding beauty of its quays, churches and squares. Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral, former home of the Eyck masterpiece, and see the Castle of the Counts.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Bruges.

Breakfast

Day 4: Sightseeing Bruges Relaxed Start

Meet your Local Expert from Bruges for a stroll along cobbled streets, lined with high-gabled houses from the 16th century. Visit the Market Square dominated by the 83-meter medieval bell tower, The Belfry of Bruges. Explore Burg Square with its ornate Gothic town hall and glorious frescoes on the walls of the Holy Blood Chapel. With your free afternoon, perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the historic town of Ypres? Explore the market square and attend the famous Last Post Ceremony, commemorating the fallen Allied Forces on the surrounding Flanders Fields.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Bruges.

Breakfast

Day 5: Luxembourg

Travel into the French-speaking Walloon region, where picturesque country roads lead you to the late 19th century Scourmont Abbey. The surrounding plateau on which it is built was once considered wild and barren land, but the Trappist monks have toiled for over 100 years to create a successful farm, brewery and cheese plant. Visit the Chimay Experience to learn about the production secrets of Chimay Trappist beers. Your visit concludes with a sample of freshly brewed beer and a taste of golden-crusted cheese.  Continue on to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg to arrive at your 18th century château home for two nights. In the evening, you will be served a fresh and delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner at restaurant L'Écurie du Parc. See the 12th century Clervaux Castle illuminated on your stroll after dinner.

Château d'Urspelt (Castle Rooms), Clervaux.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 6: Luxembourg City and Countryside

Your travels continue to Luxembourg City for sightseeing with your Local Expert. Visit the grave of U.S. General George S. Patton, laid to rest alongside the men who fought and died in his great Third Army. Admire the view over the Petrusse Ravine from the Pont Adolphe and stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the cathedral and the Palace of the Grand Duke. With the afternoon free for you to explore at your leisure, perhaps join an Optional Experience to the ancient Roman city of Trier, home town of Karl Marx, to explore with a Local Expert?

Château d'Urspelt (Castle Rooms), Clervaux.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Explore Bastogne then on to Rotterdam

Head for Bastogne to visit the Mardasson Monument, a star-shaped memorial dedicated to the U.S. troops who died during Battle of the Bulge in World War II. You may choose to climb to the top for a perspective of what it might have been like during the winter of 1944. Visit the Bastogne War Museum, a fascinating modern and interactive memorial centre highlighting the causes, events and consequences of WWII. Travel through the centre of Belgium as your journey continues to Rotterdam, the world's largest port rebuilt after wartime devastation. During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the impressive market hall and its radical modern design and the Erasmus Bridge.

Inntel Hotels Rotterdam Centre.

Breakfast

Day 8: Delft and The Hague

Visit one of the manufacturers of original Delft blue pottery before moving on to the Hague, the elegant governmental centre of the Netherlands. See the Binnenhof courtyards where the Parliament is situated and the impressive Peace Palace. Select departures visit Keukenhof Gardens one of the world's largest flower gardens, an unforgettable experience not to be missed. Pass through picturesque villages and windmills of the Dutch countryside to Amsterdam for three fabulous nights.

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam.

Breakfast

Day 9: Amsterdam Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Today you explore Amsterdam, a living museum of the 17th century, yet still a vibrant metropolis and port. The best way to see this remarkable city is from the water as you cruise through the canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the elegant merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, their facades are a reflection of when trade flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age. Relax as you pass stunning gables, beautiful churches and the iconic Magere Brug, better known as the Skinny Bridge. Disembark your cruise to wander the city and see the floating flower market, Dam Square and the Royal Palace. The rest of the day is at your leisure. With your free time, perhaps venture out to the Dutch Countryside to the village of Marken?

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam.

Breakfast

Day 10: Horticulture or Museums of Amsterdam

Explore Amsterdam with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the horticultural expo Floriade, a colourful garden festival dedicated to sustainable technologies to make our cities greener. Alternatively, join a Local Expert and visit the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, two world-class exhibitions abundant in masterpieces. Journey to the picturesque village of Monnickendam and discover Dutch traditions. Learn the secrets of the cheese maker's craft, from milk to the finished product and witness a shoemaker turn a block of wood into clogs. Tonight, join your newfound friends and Travel Director at a beautiful restaurant to enjoy your Celebration Dinner.

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 11: Depart Amsterdam

Transfers to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport arrive at 08:00 and 10:00.

Breakfast