Gendt to Griertherort

July 19, 2013

Travel is full of bittersweet experiences, and leaving Waalstrand Camping was one of them. We have enjoyed staying so close to the river plus we have met lovely people here. The owners of the campground work hard to ensure that your stay is the best it can be. Their efforts and friendly hospitality set this campground apart from others.
We were surprised to see our neighbours, John and Corrie, on the ferry. They were off for a day ride.

Crossing in to Germany was anitclimatic - unlike the old days, no signs, no crossings - the only clue was that our bike route signs had changed from green to red.

We have lacked any cycling specific maps that go beyond Emmerich. This has made it difficult to plan. We were pleased after visiting many stores, to find the Bikeline Rhein-Radweg map guidebook (in German). We were surprised that there was little awareness of the cycling Rhine route at the tourist office but after looking at my new maps, I see that most people doing the Eurovelo route ride on the other side of the river.

Approaching Griertherbusch, we were surprised to see a group of people in uniform and costume, couples formally dressed plus marching bands taking over the road. This small farming community was hosting the annual Schussterfest and the parade was about to begin. Typically the men (in military uniform) carry wooden rifles with flowers inserted in the ends. The elected King and Queen of the festival were marching as well.

Checked in at our campground, enjoyed some currywurst, french fries with mayonnaise and local beer. In our tent, we watched another episode of Game of Thrones on our computer. Travel is good indeed.

The owners of the campground couldn't do enough for us. They provided us with this umbrella so that we could have some shade. Hard to believe that a month ago where our tent is pitched there was four feet of water

We are getting the hang of setting up and taking down our new Hilleberg Anjan 3 tent

The shower and WC building was excellent. A month ago water flooding from the river was up to this building.

We really appreciated having a pool to soak in. The weather has been very hot

The reason the campground is such a wonderful place to be is the kindness and hard work of the owners

In Holland there are many signs that you have to yield to cows

We were surprised to see so many sheep in Holland. These sheep had just been herded back to there own field and barn after a day of grazing. It was hilarious hearing the sheep impatiently telling the farmer to hurry up and get us out of the sun

Today's ride: 49 km (30 miles)
Total: 330 km (205 miles)

Rate this entry's writing	Heart	1
Comment on this entry	Comment	0