It looks like an optical illusion from the top of the dyke, even though I know it isn't; the houses really are lower than the sea on the other side. Cycling along these wide paths is great fun, even though we have to weave in and out of hordes of people who have headed to the beaches for the Bank Holiday weekend. There are some great beach hut cafes on the dykes too, which are perfect for a lunch stop.

Our original intention was to cycle to Zeeland all the way from Bruges, and take the train back. But when we started out along the canal, the icy winds were blowing in the wrong direction, so we gave up and went back for the car. Hence, I've used a bit of artistic licence, because the cycling is yet to come after Helen takes her bike across on the passenger ferry from Vlissingen to Bleskens, whilst I take my bike the long way round on the top of the car.

Middelburg is a hidden gem. We only spent one night here, but really enjoyed wandering the quiet streets photographing the architecture. It's an old city, dating back to the 8th or 9th century, and from the extensive views from the top of the church tower make it possible to appreciate the strategic importance as a major port at the entrance to the Netherlands' extensive canal system. Not dissimilar to Bruges in fact, although they do make more interesting beer there, which I'm looking forward to getting back to.

Posted on November 8th 2015.