E-Bike: Belgium & the Netherlands | June 2023

Today was taking in the sights near our hotel in West Amsterdam….. we walked to the oldest part of the area Sloterdijk, a farm village.. This beautiful triangle of houses & church, are an oasis of flowers, thatched roofs and charming scenes. Mary, an old friend from New Zealand came to join us and enjoy the day. It was so interesting talking with a resident about life in the Netherlands and discuss contrast between European lifestyle and kiwi lifestyle.

Gardens around the oldest buildings in the village. In amongst those flowering roses are tombstones.

Statue of the farmers that once lived in the old village of Sloterdijk..

We were fascinated by the strips of land or vacant areas which are left to self-seed. These glorious Poppies were in one of these wild gardens. (The current thinking in the Netherlands around these gardens, are that are better for the insects and instead of a mown area so you have a thriving eco-culture.)

Walking beside the dedicated cycle paths through a green area.

A Canal by Westernpaark, the destination of our walk. Lots of renovated and re-purposed buildings, cafes, shops and recreational space.

Let’s go by cargo bike!!!