A hectic few days since we entered the English Channel and the North Sea. Ports came one after the other, so I am beginning to feel nocturnal as I write from Copenhagen, Denmark. We have had chilly weather most of the time and rain, however it hasn’t dimmed the enthusiasm. Again, with so many photos, this is going to be mainly visual.
Cherbourg lying on the north coast of France. A large Ferry port, taking freight, cars and passengers to and from the U.K. and Ireland. It is also close to the site of the D-Day landings of 1944 and many of the guests went to see the area. I had been there some years ago and was deeply moved, particularly with the cemeteries, beautifully kept, the row-upon -row of graves couldn’t help but bring you to tears. Karen and I decided to take a wander into the town itself this time.
On then to Zeebrugge, Belgium, a port I visited countless times when working on the Channel Ferries. Despite this fact, I never had the opportunity to visit Brugge (or Bruges, as it is sometimes called); a beautiful city full of canals and ancient buildings, it is also known as the Venice of the North.
Then onto Amsterdam. A 4 a.m. pilot and a 4-hour transit to Amsterdam itself; through the Ijmuiden lock and thence south towards the city.
A special event was held for guests during the evening in Amsterdam, a private visit to the Rijksmuseum, where one could view paintings by Rembrandt and Dutch artists from the Middle Ages. Unfortunately, because I had been up for some time and was due to take the “Amsterdam” out at midnight, I opted for some sleep. A good time was had by all.
In 4 hours time, we leave for Oslo, Norway and then Flam before ‘going over the top’ of U.K. to the Isle of Skye and Ireland. More later…..
Wonderful pictures – thank you, Jonathan.
Jean & George in BC
Delightful photos. Thank you so much.
Lovely photo of the two of you as well.
My cottage hotel with the back garden
And its own little bridge you were practically facing. I can tell because that was my view of the back of the cathedral. Spent a birthday weekend
There
Haven’t been to Flam since 1970!
Took a walk up the river… just lovely
Enjoy Skye!