Heemskerk to Oudesluis, Klein camping t'bullekroffie: the best riding yet - until tomorrow that is - Riding In My Grandfather's WW1 Footsteps - CycleBlaze
Heemskerk to Oudesluis, Klein camping t'bullekroffie: the best riding yet - until tomorrow that is
Great sleep, visits with our neighbours at camp and we're eager to set out and see more of the coast. As luck will have it, a cycle path goes directly from the camp to the coast through the first of many Regional Dune Reserves we will visit. For the section of the dunes that we will be riding today, there is a small toll to help with preserving the area. Our camp host told us that our camping fee covers these costs - another thing we liked about this camp.
After yesterday, we didn't think it could get any better - but we were mistaken, as the wild beauty of the dunes continues to become even more dramatic. Purple heather stretches as far as you can see and this vibrant colour juxtaposed against the sand of the dunes is very striking. We rolled our way through the ups and downs of the dunes. Many day trippers were out as well as a few other touring cyclists fully loaded.
We find these Dutch tents fascinating - from our perspective, it is like having a trailer in tent form.
We came around the corner and found these Scottish Highland cattle on the trail. They were very docile, a bit curious and not interested in moving. We went around, or in Barry's case, through them.
In a photo, they say that focusing on the eye is essential - but this guy takes a great photo regardless of the eyes. It is incredible to be able to be so close and appreciate the beauty of its coat and antlers.
This was really amazing. We always ring our bike bell and Barry often calls out, ba-a-a-a - but usually the sheep just keep on eating and ignore us. This one however, did a call and response sequence with Barry - everytime B called ba-a-a, the sheep would respond.
In the Netherlands, the cheese is a reason to visit - it is so good. This Albert Heijm store had a delectable cheese section and we enjoyed the samples.
This cyclist lives further north along the coast in North Holland Province. We had a great chat with him about cycling, travelling, etc. He is soon going to be in a charity race for cancer in Italy with a team of 3 other riders. We wish him well.
And it does fit! How fitting to find a Koga bag made by the Dutch bike company whose bikes we have admired. It's not new, but it hasn't been used and is in great shape - only 5 euros.
We got to know this family of Herman, Yoland, Sita (dog) and two daughters from the Netherlands. They were staying at the t'Bullekroffie for the w/e. What a lovely dog - a blend of Kooiker and Border Collie.
