I spent the past two days cycling 192 km on two of the hottest days of the year so far.
On Saturday, I cycled 108 km from home in Heerlen to the start of the Maasvallei, near Maastricht and then headed north along the river valley to Roermond then on to me planned overnight stop at Baarlo.
You’ll see from the many pictures the stunning landscapes I passed through, looking their very best under bright sunshine and almost cloudless blue skies.
Today’s featured image is overlooking the river Maas near the Dutch village of Hanssum.
I had to stop frequently for hydration and a little rest.
Cycling in these conditions is amazing but saps my energy much more than usual.
I arrived in Baarlo a little earlier than planned so I found a nice terrace in the village and drank plenty of ice cold cola.
My overnight accommodation was a lovely B&B with Vrienden op de Fiets.
Sincere thanks to Ton and Monique for their generous hospitality, I’d have no hesitation staying again if I’m ever that way again.
On Sunday morning, after a hearty breakfast, I set off on my return route home, originally destined to be about 105 km.
After a couple of hours it seemed the temperatures were even higher than Saturday.
I decided to alter my planned route to save myself around 20 km, and even more challenging terrain through the Meinweg National Park.
This proved to be a wise decision, as the afternoon temperatures were around 28c, and it felt even hotter in exposed areas with no shelter from trees.
The day was rounded off with cold beers and a nice meal with Ans at De Admiraal, not far from home.
