TOURS
THE RAVEL ROUTE
MAASTRICHT TO PARIS - PARIS TO MAASTRICHT
AMSTERDAM TO BRUSSELS
HOLLAND MEETS BELGIUM
BRUSSELS TO BRUGES
COAST AND CANALS
SPRINGFLOWER TOUR - AMSTERDAM TO BRUGES
THE RAVEL ROUTE - 3 COUNTRIES TOUR
7 day semi-escorted luxury barge cruise, cycling, & walking tour
A beautiful cycling and walking route is our Route Ravel from Maastricht (Holland) to Givet (France), encompassing three countries: the Netherlands, Belgium and France. You cruise on the River Maas through the historic cities of Liege, Namur, Dinand, Givet, Riviere, and Huy.
A day that you don’t want to bicycle? Or walk? Then stay on board and sail away with the luxurious Miro and enjoy the ever-changing and picturesque landscape.
DAY TO DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: A hearty welcome on board and a cruise to Liege
Upon your arrival in Maastricht, you’re expected at the Pietersplas yacht harbour at 13.00 (the harbour has video surveillance and reserved parking places). Once on board, we’re pleased to offer you a welcome aperitif and let you know a little bit more about the planned tour. The bikes are handed out at 15.00 and will be personally adjusted for your biking comfort. We set sail with the MIRO towards Liege, via the locks of Lanaye. With their 18 meter drop, these are the highest locks in the Maas and it makes for a pretty impressive event. Upon arrival in historical centre of Liege, we’ll dock at the aquarium museum Du Liege. Dinner will be served in Liege and in the evening there will be ample time to visit the lovely city highlights – the captain will be happy to take you to the renowned Café Chantant Le Jardin des Olliviette, where the music of the region and the famous French “chansons” create a wonderfully unique atmosphere.
Day 2: Liege-Namur (35 km)
We’ll begin the day early with a hearty Captain’s breakfast, after which you’ll be more than fortified for a visit to the famous Sunday market La Batte, Belgium’s oldest market. The Miro will then set sail for Namur via the Route-Ravel, along the mighty steel mills that underline the industrial importance of the Maas. The route is ever-changing: wild, wooded glens and cultivated areas all compete for your attention alongside the winding river. We’ll also see many an ancient castle, straight out of a fairytale. Above the d’Ampsin-Neuville locks you’ll disembark once more and take a bike ride to Namur, a rich old city and also the capital of Wallonia, situated on the junction of the Sambre and the Maas rivers. In the evening hours you’ll visit the enchanting castle of Namur and wonder at the sights of this lovely city. And you’ll fall asleep under the romantic canopy of lights that illuminate the imposing walls of the Chateau Namur.
Day 3: Bike tour to Dinant (29 km)
The bike route takes you from the Maasdal, or Maas Valley, to Namur and then to Dinant. On the left riverbank you can admire the strawberry town of Weppion, while on the other riverbank you’ll have a great views of Profondeville en Riviere with it’s fabulous vantage point ‘Sept Meuse’, which offers a breathtaking view over seven Maas valleys on the right bank. The route travels along the typical Maas-style village Dave-Frenes en Godinne with its beautiful 17th century Spanish manor house called Yvoir and the lovely abbey-brewery of Leffe. Small, welcoming villages where the delights of Belgian beer await, surround you on your sailing adventure. Shortly before Dinant you can wonder at the old fortresses of Poilvache to your right and Crèvecoeur to your left, directly opposite each other and each guarding its own riverbank. Today you’ll also be rewarded by the gorgeous natural beauty of the region. The Miro will be waiting for you again in the centre of the picturesque city of Dinant.
Day 4: From Dinant to French Givet (25 or 52 km)
The valley disappears after Dinant, and the villages get sparser and the cliffs more steep. They give this landscape a wild and untouched flavour. On the right bank you’ll pass Anseremme. Here you can tour the Lesse by canoe, and then via the locks to the Château of Freyr, also known as little Versailles on the Maas. We cross over via a ferryboat in Waulsort towards Hastière. (25 km)
Here you can visit the old Roman abbey church, before continuing on to Givet, a city known as the port of France. The return route is an alternative to the one just taken. On the fourth day you’re welcome to rest or you can also take a short bike ride through the lovely scenery surrounding Dinant. After dinner there is a romantic evening cruise planned to Riviere. This is also where we’ll spend the night, in a quiet place alongside the picturesque banks of the river. If you’ve still got any energy reserves, the skipper will be happy to take you for a lovely walk to see the charming windmills or the renowned Sept Meuse.
Day 5: Riviere-Huy (32 km)
During your breakfast the MIRO will be sailing through gorgeous mountain scenery to La Plante. And from La Plante we’ll take a bike tour via Marche-les-Dames (the place where in 1934 the Belgian King and mountaineer Albert I met his death while climbing the steep cliffs) to Huy. Here we’ll dock at the beautiful city piers for the night. Huy is a lovely peaceful city with windy streets and alleys and an ancient tradition in metal work. The golden treasure of the Cathedral Notre Dame is unique, crafted by goldsmith Godefried von Huy in the 13th century. The Citadel allows unforgettably breathtaking views of the plateau of Sarte.
Day 6: Huy-Maastricht (27 km)
While enjoying yet another sumptuous breakfast, we’ll already be sailing towards the sun to Liege, where we’ll begin a bike tour of harboursides and iron works. Via the country towns of Monsin and Visé, we’ll cross the border and bike past gorgeous apple orchards to Castle Eijsden, and then through lovely Limburg country to Maastricht. We’ll be sure to stop at the famous Mergel Caves for your sightseeing pleasure.
We’ll end the day with a delicious captain’s dinner if you like, or you’re welcome to take the Harbour taxi to the delightful city of Maastricht where it is also possible to take a tour of this magnificent part of the Netherlands. And for those who enjoy a spot of shopping, all shops are open till 21.00 on Thursday evenings.
Day 7: Return Trip
Enjoy a last delicious breakfast on board; disembark at 10.00. Your crew will be sad to see you go & will hope that you have had an unforgettable experience!
Tour Rating
The total length of the cycling route is about 175 km. The total length by boat is around 170 km. Almost all bike paths are level and well-lit, but alternative routes and local roads are also a possibility.
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike routes along the well-signposted bike route Ravel. Suitable for all levels of cyclist.
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Airport / Transfers
The best flights are in/out of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. There are highspeed trains from the terminal to Maastricht every hour, at a cost of approx. Euro 25.00. The voyage takes approx. 1 1/2 hours.
A further option is Paris or even Frankfurt, both a 3 to 4 hour train ride to Maastricht.
MS MIRO 5*****
The Miro has 6 luxuriously appointed 2-person Comfort Class Cabins, finished in the finest cherry wood, each containing a separate bathroom with shower, toilet and so forth. There is a cosy seating area, satellite colour TV, a safe, 220 volt electricity network, fax, telephone.
The yacht is also equipped with internet access, as well as heating for those cooler nights and air-conditioning for warm summer days.
The interior reflects the luxurious style and decadence of the 1920’s, though was totally refitted in 2006. |
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The spacious salon with open fireplace and fully-equipped bar has expansive windows allowing panoramic views. The yacht also has
a protected back deck area, to keep stiff sea breezes at bay, as well as roomy
stairwells and wide gangplanks. A fabulous sunning area with ample seating
completes the picture.

Schedule
| Dates 2010 |
This tour departs every Saturday from April 10th to September 18th
Remaining weeks with availability: Sept. 4, 11, & 18
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| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD |
$1050 |
| Single share cabin on request |
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No supplement |
| Single use of a double cabin |
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$600 |
| Optional Electro bike |
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$200 |
THIS TOUR INCLUDES: |
* Welcome drink
* 6 nights including buffet breakfast and packed lunch on board the 5***** Hotel Barge Miro
* 6 x afternoon tea
* Luxurious Comfort Class cabin with bathroom, satellite TV, air-conditioning, safe, & central heating
* Towels, linen and daily maid service
* Bike rental of new first-class Gazelle Chamonix bikes with 2 saddle bags, extra long step-in, 8-speeds, bike computer, rain poncho, repair materials, a double safety lock and bike helmet, reinforced tires etc.
* Full bicycle insurance
* Biking & walking maps, route descriptions and travel information for your use and convenience
* Multi-lingual crew on board to provide assistance and advice on the days independent touring
* Welcome gift; the music CD ‘La Tierra de Mis Amores’
NOT INCLUDED:
* Lock fees and tourist taxes of Euro 93.00 per person, must be paid in cash onboard to the captain
* Staff gratuities
* Bar drinks
* Optional extra night aboard ship pre/post tour
MEAL OPTIONS
Dinner will be served on board or in a well-established local restaurant. This is the choice of the passengers each day. A 4 course traditional dinner prepared by the chef aboard the Miro costs 26 € .
There is also a snack service and fully stocked bar on board .
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Top of Page
MAASTRICHT to PARIS
15 day escorted cycling & walking tour
The Hotel yacht Miro sets sail for the world-renowned City of Lights every year at the end of September, ensuring you a gorgeous Autumn trip to Paris and back.
We’ll take more than 160 long tunnels, locks and bridges, and of which most locks are automatic. But sometimes it’ll be expected of us to lend the Lock Master a helping hand!
Along the route are delightful cycling opportunities and possibilities to enjoy some (Nordic) walking, and we’ll have the bikes ready for you on the deck, so be sure to help yourself and feel free. If you disembark, make sure to drop into one of the many delightful villages that you’ll pass, perhaps to buy a deliciously crusty baguette: you’ll enjoy the soup at dinnertime that much more!
The route takes us from Maastricht, to Liege and Namur through the coal basins of Charleroi . We’ll sail on to Strépy where the ship will be lifted by a special ship lift, as big as a football field, 73 metres into the air across to the other side. We’ll sail through kilometres of long tunnels where a small locomotive will pull us through the dark corridors. A truly unforgettable experience! We’ll dock at old French cities such as Maubeuge, Compiègne and Pontoise, gorgeous garden cities where the various Napoleons and kings built their country lodgings. We’ll sail over the Somme de Oise and lastly the magical Seine.
In PARIS we’ll dock in the middle of town so that you will have more than enough time to discover this enchanting city. Your skipper knows Paris like the back of his hand, and the cook on board is a real chef who uses his experience and knowledge of the region to ensure a fabulous gastronomic experience, together with a delicious French wine and some renowned French cheese to accompany.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1, Saturday - Maastricht
13.00 will see you embarking the boat and enjoying a chilled glass of Champagne, meeting the cast and crew and having your bike adjusted to meet your own personal preferences. There will also be time for a short test ‘drive’, so that you can get used to the feel of your bike. We’re delighted to serve you a delicious welcome dinner on board, before you embark upon a lovely city excursion through Maastricht that evening. During the walk a guide will show you all the hidden delights of this wondrous city: you’ll follow in the footsteps of d'Artagnan, the famous 4th musketeer. The guide will be please to tell you all about the city of Maastricht, including the rich history of this important southern town. And he’ll also be more than happy to join you for a beer on the famous Vrijthof Square!
Day 2, Sunday - Maastricht to Leige
At 8.00 you’ll be enjoying a sumptuous breakfast while the Miro sails to Liege. On the way, you’ll pass the Maas’s highest Locks whereby the boat will ascend 18 metres – an impressive experience. The bike tour (20 km.) will bring you to Liege, where the Miro will dock in the very heart of the city. We wander through the city and visit the renowned Sunday market La Batte. This is the largest market in all of Belgium, and it is literally a treasure trove of everything you could possibly imagine. We will be pleased to serve you dinner at around 18.00, leaving more than enough time for you to spend you evening hours discovering Liege’s enchanting secrets, romantic streets and cosy bars for yourself.
Day 3, Monday - Leige / Huy / Namur
We Cruise to Huy while you enjoy breakfast, and enjoy the vistas of all that we pass as we make our way. Once in Huy, we will have ample time to visit the imposing Cathedral and the impressive Citadel, and to have a look around this lovely town all by yourself. Huy is also the starting point of the bike route to Namur (32 km.), which will take you along gorgeous country panoramas with a number of unforgettable spots. The tour will end in the impressive city of Namur, which is also the capital of the Wallonia State. From where we’ll be docked you’ll have a beautiful view of the fairytale castle high above the city and the city ramparts, built centuries ago to protect against marauders. Namur has an enchanting city centre and after dinner the captain will be pleased to take you to the Citadel for a walk back in time, and to enjoy a wonderful view over the city, the Maas and the Sambre.
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Maastricht

Leige
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Day 4, Tuesday - Namur to Strepy
As you enjoy another sumptuous breakfast, the Miro will already be progressing on to Charleroi, and you’ll see in the landscape the vestiges of the once-booming mining and steel industry for which the region was famous for centuries. Today’s bike tour will take us to Strépy Thieu (35 km.) to the new ship elevator in the Canal du Centre. This gigantic ship lift is as big as a football field and bridges a span of 73 meter. The fantastic engine room and adjoining museum are open to visitors so that you can learn more about this marvellous feat of engineering. Dinner will be served on board and afterwards you can enjoy the beautiful nature and the wonderful panoramic views.
Day 5, Wednesday - Strepy to Mons
Today we’ll breakfast at 8.00 to fortify you for the bike tour planned. This one is 37 kilometres long and takes you from the Canal Historique du Centre, where you can visit three smaller ship elevators, one of which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, the route will take you to Mons and you’ll cross the French border. After dinner you’re welcome to take a break, and recover from your active day of biking or walking.
Day 6, Thursday - Mons to Antoine
A new bike tour awaits you after a delicious breakfast, and this one takes you to Antoine, a beautiful tour along the Old Canals.
Day 7, Friday - Antoine to Vallancienne .
The ship will follow on its course along the Old River Boven Schelde.
You’ll cross the French border to the beautiful city of Vallancienne.
Day 8, Saturday - Vallancienne to Denain
This tour takes you to Denain en Arleux (35km). The ship will follow on it’s course along the Boven Schelde and will dock at Souterrain du Ruyaulcourt. Here you’ll come back on board to continue through the dark shipping tunnels . These tunnels are 4.354 meters long and cross right through the hilly countryside. You’ll sail through the Canal du Nord that ends in the Souterrain du Pannetrie, a total of 1.601 meters of tunnels! From here, we’ll sail in a convoy, in typical French fashion: with wine and delicious food. Because what we don’t finish today, we can always do tomorrow or the day after, right? At any rate, there’s more than enough time to catch up on relaxing and taking walks, and simply enjoying the delights of the unique countryside.
Day 9, Sunday - Deneain to Noyon
The bike tour scheduled for today takes you all the way to Noyon. It’s not a short one - between 40 and 50 kilometres – but since you’ll be tracking the boat anyway you can jump on at every sluice to take a break. The trip takes you through storybook French countryside and past picturesque villages that are primarily rural in nature. Noyon is an old city, dating to the period 600 BC. The town offers many worthy sight-seeing highlights and monuments that have survived the impact that both WWI and WWII had on the region. In the evening you’ll once more enjoy a sumptuous dinner and with a crisp wine on the aft deck, you’ll realise that life just doesn’t get any better.
Day 10, Monday -
Noyon to Compiegne
Following a buffet breakfast you’ll proceed to Compiëgne (31 km), while the ship keeps it’s lazy river pace alongside you. You can jump on again at any of the delightful riverbanks that you’ll pass. Compiëgne is known as a regal village because every French king of old had a summer dwelling here, and once you see it you’ll know why. It’s also the city where Joan of Arc was captured. In short, a delightful city of rich history that you’ll love discovering for yourself, dotted with many museums to while away your day in. We’re happy to let you wander around to your heart’s content for the rest of the afternoon.
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Ship Lift at Strépy Thieu
Canal Historique du Centre
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Day 11, Tuesday - Compiegne - Creil
During breakfast, the Miro will sail on to Creil, a lovely route along the River Oise.
Day 12, Wednesday -
Creil – Pontoise – Bougival
The tour will take you along tiny villages to 'l Isle - Adam. This is where Parisian’s come to play, and the influence of such a big city is obvious. We sail on to Conflance - Sainte Honorine. This is the main city of French inland sailing, and you’ll wonder at all the beautiful boats, big and small, docked here peacefully. The town has a lovely ambiance and you won’t be surprised to learn that many skippers retire here to enjoy their twilight years. You’ll spend the night in Bougival. Today is biking on demand.
Day 13, Thursday - Bougival - Paris
Today in the afternoon you’ll make your entry into Paris! The Seine offers the perfect foreground for the wondrous city of Paris. You’ll love seeing the approaching skyline of Paris while you slowly make your way into the City of Lights. In Paris we’ll look to dock at Grenelle Directly under the Tour Eiffel This Evening you can take a walk or Bike to the romantic Eiffel Tower. You’ll fall sleep in it’s incredible shadow.
Day 14, Friday - Paris
After breakfast, the city of Paris awaits you!
If you’d like to know more about this world-renowned city, our guide will be happy to accompany you on your travels. He’ll take you to see all the highlights by bike or by public transport, if you so wish. And a twilight boat ride on the Seine is yours for the asking. What an unforgettable way to end your holiday!
Day 15, Saturday
You’ll enjoy one last breakfast on board before saying goodbye to your newfound friends. We’ll be sad to see you go and hope that you’ll leave with only the fondest memories!
Return trip by TGV, airplane, or extend your stay in France
Tour Rating
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The total length of the route by bike is about 220 km. Almost all bike paths are level and well-lit.
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike routes along well-signposted bike routes. Suitable for all levels of cyclist.
You are welcome to take time off and stay aboard ship during the course of the tour.
Airport / Transfers
The best flight options are into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport and out of Paris. There are highspeed trains from the terminal to Maastricht every hour, at a cost of approx. Euro 25.00. The voyage takes approx. 1 1/2 hours.
If required, a return train from Paris to Amsterdam Airport takes 3 1/2 hours, at a cost of approx. Euro 60.00.
MS MIRO 5*****
The Miro has 6 luxuriously appointed 2-person Comfort Class Cabins, finished in the finest cherry wood, each containing a separate bathroom with shower, toilet and so forth. There is a cosy seating area, satellite colour TV, a safe, 220 volt electricity network, fax, telephone.
The yacht is also equipped with internet access, as well as heating for those cooler nights and air-conditioning for warm summer days.
The interior reflects the luxurious style and decadence of the 1920’s, though was totally refitted in 2006.
The spacious salon with open fireplace and fully-equipped bar has expansive windows allowing panoramic views. |

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The yacht also has a protected back deck area, to keep stiff sea breezes at bay, as well as roomy stairwells and wide gangplanks. A fabulous sunning area with ample seating completes the picture.

Schedule
| Dates 2010 |
September 25th to October 9th
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October 15th to 29th - operates in reverse, ie. Paris to Maastricht
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| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD |
$2395 |
| Single share cabin on request: |
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No supplement |
| Optional Electro bike |
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$350 |
| This "almost all-inclusive" tour includes: |
* Welcome drink
* 14 nights on board the 5***** Hotel Yacht Miro
* 3 excellent meals per day plus afternoon tea and fruit selection
* Luxurious Comfort Class cabin with bathroom, satellite TV, air-conditioning, safe, & central heating
* Towels, linen and maid service
* Bike rental of first-class Gazelle Chamonix bikes with 2 saddle bags, extra long step-in, 8-speeds, bike computer, rain poncho, repair materials, a double safety lock and bike helmet, reinforced tires etc.
* Full bicycle insurance
* Biking & walking maps, route descriptions and travel information for your use and convenience
* Multi-lingual crew on board to provide assistance and advice on the days touring
* Welcome gift; the music CD ‘La Tierra de Mis Amores’
NOT INCLUDED:
* Local harbour and lock taxes of Euro 50.00 per person, must be paid in cash onboard to the captain
* Staff gratuities
* Bar drinks
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AMSTERDAM TO BRUSSELS
(or Brussels to Amsterdam)
8 day escorted tour
This bike & barge holiday combines the countries of Holland and Belgium in a most attractive manner. On arrival day you stay in Amsterdam and have time to explore the city. By barge you’ll sail to Breukelen on the charming river Vecht. Across Hollands fruit garden, the Betuwe, the barge sails the river Waal to the town of Tiel, then on to the old town of ’s Hertogenbosch.
Pedalling across the quiet islands of Zeeland, you cross the Belgian border. The Flemish port town of Antwerp is another highlight. Belgium is famous for it’s tasty beer, so a visit to one of the fine breweries is included.
Your holiday ends in Belgiums capital city of Brussels. Standing at the Market Square in Brussels the Dam Square in Amsterdam seems miles away!
Note: this tour operates the reverse itinerary each alternate week
Day to Day Itinerary
Saturday: Cycling appr. 15 km
Today your ship will stay overnight in Amsterdam. Your tour leader will invite you for a small try out by bike. In the evening you have the possibility to make a roundtrip of the Amsterdam canals.
Sunday: Cycling appr. 35 km
Your ship takes you to Breukelen, where you disermbark. Alongside the waterfront you can admire the beautifully restored stately homes of the rich and famous from the Dutch Golden Age. Via castle De Haar and Montfoort you’ll cycle to Vianen, your stop for the night.
Monday: Cycling appr. 45 km
Sailing trip to Tiel. Crossing by ferry to the rural area between the rivers Maas and Waal. After passing many dikes, orchards, and rich polderland you’ll arrive in the town of ‘s Hertogenbosch, the charming capital of the province of Noord-Brabant. The St. Jans cathedral is certainly worth a visit here.
Tuesday: Cycling appr. 40 km
The day starts with a sailing trip on the river Maas. At Geertruidenberg you’ll mount your bike for an extremely varied tour of the attractive walled town of Willemstad. This beautifully preserved fortified town is strategically situated on several waterways.
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3 1/2 star MS TIJDGEEST
Our hotel barge the MS TIJDGEEST has been sailing with tourists since 1897, in the early years as a passenger ship on the river Rhine in Germany. More than 100 years later, in 1998, the ship was completely renovated and rebuild into a luxurious hotel. On the lower deck you’ll find the cabins, all with private facilities and bunk style beds. On the upper deck a very spacious living/dining room with panoramic view |
Wednesday: Cycling appr. 45 km
After breakfast a morning cycle tour to the island of Tholen in Zeeland is planned. You’ll pass the village from where the parents of the American president Roosevelt left for the USA. You’ll embark for a sailing trip across the Belgian border to the port town of Antwerp. In the evening your tour leader will take you out for a city walk, plus you'll be tasting some special beers during a cosy beer seminary in a typical Belgian bar.
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Thursday: Cycling appr. 40 km
The morning is at your disposal to see more of the great city of Antwerp. You cycle across the Flemish countryside to the charming town of Mechelen, where the barge will be waiting for you.
Friday: No cycling
By train to Brussels. Your tour leader shows you the way by means of a small city walk. Time enough to visit all the highlights of the capital of Belgium. In case you become hungry or thirsty, try one of the culinary specialties: mussels, french fries, chocolate, waffles and - of course - a special beer. Late in the afternoon you'll return to Mechelen by train. |
Saturday:
After breakfast your guide and crew say goodbye and your bike & barge tour has ended.
Tour Rating
The total length of the route by bike is about 220 km. Almost all bike paths are level and well-lit.
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike routes along well-signposted bike routes. Suitable for all levels of cyclist.
You are welcome to take time off and stay aboard ship during the course of the tour.
Airport / Transfers
Flights are in/out of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. There are trains from the terminal into Central Station every 20 minutes, at a cost of approx. Euro 8.00, with the barge docked right beside the Central Station.
A return train from Brussels to Amsterdam Airport takes 2 1/2 hours, at a cost of approx. Euro 40.00.
Schedule
| Dates 2010 |
Amsterdam to Brussels
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May 29 |
June 26 |
July 24 |
August 21 |
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Brussels to Amsterdam
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June 5 |
July 3, 31 |
August 28 |
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| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD |
$995 |
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| Children staying in same cabin as parents: 4-12 years: |
discount |
33% |
| Single supplement: |
CAD |
$250 |
| Single share (on request) |
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No extra cost |
| Additional adult in 3 or 4 bed cabin: |
CAD |
$700 |
| This tour includes: |
• accommodation in a double cabin with private facilities
• bedding and towels
• breakfast, packed lunch, and 3-course dinner
• tour guide
• Round trip train transfers from Brussels to Mechelen on your sightseeing day
• Comfort style touring bicycle with handbrakes, gears, and pannier.
• bike insurance
• info pack and tour maps
• Beer tasting session in the Antwerp cafe, 't Waagstuk
• Several City Walks |
HOLLAND MEETS BELGIUM
AMSTERDAM TO BRUGES / BRUGES TO AMSTERDAM
8 day escorted tour
This tour offers you a unique opportunity to get to know the lowlands of the North Sea.
We show you lovely Amsterdam and old Dutch towns like Gouda and Willemstad.
You cross the border into Belgium to discover the Belgian pearls of Antwerp, Ghent and on top of that: medievel Bruges!
All meals are included aboard your cruising barge hotel. Enjoy one of the best cycle path networks in the world, with hardly a car to worry about!
Day to Day Itinerary
Saturday:
Transfer by bus from Amsterdam Airport to Ghent in Belgium. Embarkation and checking in aboard the hotel barge. The tour leader will invite you for a walk through the wonderful town centre.
Sunday: cycling ± 15 km
By train you travel to Bruges where your tour leader will acquaint you with this unique town. Till mid-afternoon you are free to discover Bruges. By train you transfer to Dendermonde where the barge will stay for the night. In the evening there’s a short test ride in and around Dendermonde.
Monday: cycling ± 30 km
From Dendermonde you ride through the pretty Flemish countryside alongside the river Schelde to Antwerp. In the afternoon your guide invites you for a short city walking tour and afterwards you have free time to explore the town centre. In the evening you may wish to visit some bars and have a good taste of famous Belgian beers.
Tuesday: cycling ± 40 km
First there’s a sailing trip over the Belgian-Dutch border to the peninsula of Tholen. From here the parents of the American president Roosevelt left for the USA. The cycle ride crosses the flat countryside to the beautiful walled town of Willemstad.
Wednesday: cycling ± 45 km
The barge will drop you at the edge of the nature reserve Biesbosch and you start todays cycle ride. You visit the windmills of Kinderdijk and will certainly enjoy the rural scenery that continue to the cheese town Gouda. In the evening you may wish to join your tour leader for a short city walk.
Thursday: cycling ± 40 km
You enjoy an easy bike ride right through some real Dutch meadowlands and end your trip in a small village called Oude Wetering. You may enjoy the quietness of the rural Dutch countryside before you arrive in busy Amsterdam tomorrow.
Friday: cycling ± 25 km
On the banks of the river Amstel you cycle in the direction of and then across the Amsterdam town centre to the mooring place of your barge. In the afternoon there’s time to explore the lively Dutch capital and do some shopping. In the evening there’s a city walk and you may wish to make a roundtrip of the famous Amsterdam canals.
Saturday:
End of your bike and barge tour and check out by 9.00am.
Tour Rating
The total length of the route by bike is about 195 km. Almost all bike paths are level and well-lit.
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike paths along well-signposted bike routes. Suitable for all levels of cyclist.
You are welcome to take time off and stay aboard ship during the course of the tour if you wish.
Airport / Transfers
Flights are best in/out of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. Transfers from the airport to/from Ghent are included.
For Amsterdam departures, there are trains from the terminal into Central Station every 20 minutes, at a cost of approx. Euro 8.00, with the barge docked right beside the Central Station.
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4 star MS LENA MARIA
Constructed in the winter of 2005/06 is our Comfort barge LENA MARIA. This ship is so spacious that even when fully booked there’s room enough for everybody. The ship's saloon is airconditioned. The meals are served in the dining room on the upper deck. You can also enjoy your drink on the sun deck. All 12 luxurious cabins on the LENA MARIA offer flat level beds and a beautiful bathroom. If you like to sail the luxurious way, this ship is the place to be.
3 1/2 star MS TIJDGEEST
Our hotel barge the MS TIJDGEEST has been sailing with tourists since 1897, in the early years as a passenger ship on the river Rhine in Germany. More than 100 years later, in 1998, the ship was completely renovated and rebuild into a luxurious hotel. On the lower deck you’ll find the cabins, all with private facilities and bunk style beds. On the upper deck a very spacious living/dining room with panoramic view

Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum
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Schedule - 3 1/2 star Standard Barge
| Dates 2010 |
Amsterdam to Bruges
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September 11 |
Bruges to Amsterdam
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September 18 |
| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD $995 |
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| Children staying in same cabin as parents:4-12 years: |
33% |
| Single supplement |
$250 |
| Single share (on request) |
No extra cost |
| Additional adult in 3 or 4 bed cabin: |
$750 |
| This tour includes: |
• accommodation in a double cabin with private facilities
• bedding and towels
• breakfast, packed lunch, and 3-course dinner
• tour guide
• bicycle with handbrakes, gears, and pannier.
• bike insurance
• info pack and tour maps
• entrance fee Windmill Kinderdijk
• Train ride Ghent - Bruges - Ghent
• Bus transfer Ghent - Amsterdam Airport
• Several City Walks
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Schedule - 4 star Comfort Barge
| Dates 2010 |
Amsterdam to Bruges
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June 12 |
Juyl 10 |
August 7, 28 |
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Bruges to Amsterdam |
June 19 |
July 17 |
August 14 |
September 4 |
| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD $1095 |
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| Children staying in same cabin as parents:4-12 years: |
33% |
| Single supplement |
$275 |
| Single share (on request) |
No extra cost |
| Additional adult in 3 or 4 bed cabin: |
$800 |
| This tour includes: |
• accommodation in a double cabin with private facilities
• bedding and towels
• breakfast, packed lunch, and 3-course dinner
• tour guide
• bicycle with handbrakes, gears, and pannier.
• bike insurance
• info pack and tour maps
• entrance fee Windmill Kinderdijk
• Train ride Ghent - Bruges - Ghent
• Bus transfer Ghent - Amsterdam Airport
• Several City Walks |
BRUSSELS TO BRUGES
7 day Independent Tour
This biking vacation in Belgium is a beautiful cycle tour from the capital of Belgium, Brussels to the wonderful historic town of Bruges. Surprisingly beautiful, that’s the way to describe the various regions of Flanders and Brussels in a short way. Flanders and Europe’s capital Brussels offer a holiday joy for everybody, lovely bike tours through beautiful landscapes, culinary joy in great restaurants, cultural highlights in historical buildings and museums and of course the ever pulsating city of Brussels. This tour is a mixture of easy biking , Belgian culture and historic delights.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Brussels
If time permits visit the market square, the Atomium, Manneke Pis, the icons of the Belgian capital are a must for every visitor of Brussels.
Day 2 Brussels to Mechelen - 60 km
On the first day, we first cycle along to Leuven. This city is not only known for as a university city, with the oldest Belgian university, but also as a beer city. A walk in Mechelen, city at the river Dijle, will show you all the most important historical buildings, which were erected in the time of the Burgundy. You certainly have to visit the St. Rombouts-cathedral, the palaces of Margarete of York and Margarete of Austria. Or you can also visit the toy’s museum!
Day 3 Mechelen to Bornem - 35 km
Today we cycle along the river Rupel and Schelde to Bornem. Because of the short ride there is plenty of time to take a 15-minute train ride towards the centre of Antwerp. Enjoy a stroll on the Meir, have a beer on one of the many plazas or admire the rich architecture and art of this Flemish capital.
Day 4 Bornem to Gent - 64 km
Gent, also the historical centre of Flanders, offers a variety of places of interest and is overseen by lots of towers, for example the one of the St. Bavo cathedral with the world famous painting of Jan van Eyck. The historical heart of the city is well preserved. You can for example visit the old port. Nearby, you will find the ‘Gravensteen’, once the medieval castle of the counts of Gent.
Day 5 Gent to Bruges - 50 km
The historical centre of Bruges is part of the world famous Unesco world heritage site list. Who visits Bruges, will notice it straight away, this city has always taken care of its architectural and cultural treasures.
Day 6 Bruges to Ostend to Bruges - 64km
A ride today along the canals to the port of Ostend and further to the authentic coastal village of De Haan, enjoying a refreshing dive into the North sea or relaxing at the beach. Or you can also enjoy a free day for shopping, a boat ride on the canals, sightseeing by carriage, visiting some museums, climbing the belfry or for taking a 15 min. train ride to Ostend, a majestic port town
Day 7 Departure after breakfast or extra night in Bruges or Brussels
Back to Brussels by direct train (1 hour ride, 2 trains per hour).
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Tour Rating
The total length of the route by bike is about 270 km.
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike routes along well-signposted bike routes and quiet streets. Suitable for all levels of cyclist.
Airport / Transfers
Flights are in/out of Brussels, Amsterdam or Paris. There are regular trains to/from these cities and central Brussels.
Schedule
| Dates 2010 |
Departs every Saturday from April 25th until September 26th. Also Sunday departures in July and August.
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| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD |
$990 |
| Single room on request |
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$300 |
| Optional half-board meal plan |
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$200 |
This tour includes: |
* 6 nights accommodation in a selection of 3 and 4 star hotels
* 6 breakfasts
* Welcome meeting
* Luggage transfer
* Rental of a modern hybrid style touring bike
* Biking maps, route descriptions and travel information for your use and convenience
* Service hotline |
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COAST AND CANALS
8 day independent tour
This Belgian cycling vacation takes you through the Flanders region, and through such historic towns as Bruges, Ostende, and Leper. This particular tour is ideal for both the first time and more experienced bicycle tourist.
On this cycling holiday you will experience wonderful countryside, sand dunes, canals, the English Channel coast, plus rich architecture of churches, monasteries, windmills and castles, as well as the famous medieval towns of Leper, Poperinge, Diksmunde, and Bruges. Of course not forgetting the great beer drinking atmosphere in the pubs and lastly for those with a sweet tooth a local chocolate factory (closed in July).
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 Saturday
Arrive Roeselare for first night. You can reach Roeselare by train from the ferry ports Calais and Zeebrugge or by train from the airports at Brussels, Amsterdam or Paris. We have a welcome meeting at 6pm where we discuss the tour and handover the cycles.
Day 2 Roeselare to Kemmel 30 miles (48km)
Today you set off cycling in an easterly direction. Today is a flat route where you will pass the famous Tyne Cot Cemetery , the world’s largest British War Cemetery. Shortly you will arrive in Ypres a wonderful medieval town with imposing Market Halls and the impressive Merlin Gate. After a visit you continue on your cycle tour to Kemmel for your over night stay.
Day 3 Kemmel to Diksmuide 28 miles ( 45km)
Another easy day along flat country lanes and canal paths. You will cycle through the towers of the Medieval town of Poperinge. Why not sample the Beer tasting in the St Sixtus abbey, of course not so much as you still have to cycle onto you destination Diksmuide. Diksmuide has an imposing landmark of Yzertoren.
Day 4 Diksmuide to Bruges 28 miles ( 45 km)
Another flat days cycling throughout farm land towards Bruges which is often known as the Venice of the North to many locals. Very historic and with many canals and many places to visit.
Day 5 Bruges
A free day in Bruges to go shopping , take a ride of the canals or even go sight seeing by Horse and cart. Even climb the Belfort or even take a train ride ( 15 minutes ) to Ostend a majestic Port town. There is much to see and do on your day of rest.
Day 6 Bruges to Knokke and return 36 miles ( 59km)
A circular route along the picturesque canals towards the painters village of Damme. After we take the coastal route passing knokke which is a very plush coastal city , along the sand dunned landscape to the nature reserve of Het Zwin. Then its back along the canals to Bruges.
Day 7 Bruges to Roeselare 31 miles ( 50km)
Cycling today along country lanes back to your start point . On the way enjoy a visit to a Chocolate making factory.
Day 8
Tour complete after breakfast
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Tour Rating
Grade of difficulty: Easy to moderate. These are lovely bike routes along well-signposted bike routes. Suitable for all levels of cyclist who have had some training and are used to cycling on roads and streets. The total length of the route by bike is about 250 km. Almost all bike paths are level and well-lit.
Airport / Transfers
Flights are in/out of Brussels, Amsterdam or Paris. There are regular trains to/from these cities and Roeselare.
Schedule
| Dates 2010 |
Departs every Saturday from March 27th until October 23rd
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| Per person, double occupancy |
CAD |
$990 |
| Single room on request |
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$200 |
| Optional half-board meal plan (7 dinners) |
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$250 |
This tour includes: |
* 7 nights accommodation in a mix of 3 and 4 star hotels
* 7 breakfasts
* Welcome meeting
* Luggage transfer
* Modern hybrid style rental bicycle
* Entrance to the National Cycle Museum
* Biking maps, route descriptions and travel information for your use and convenience
* 7-day Service hotline
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Top of Page
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