Alkmaar to Purmerend: 7 June 12

It wasn't raining when we sat down to breakfast and, while threatening, the weather held through the afternoon with only an occasional sprinkle. So, Amy joined me on the windmill tour from Alkmaar to Purmerend. We were familiar with the path having done all but the last 10 km four years ago. We passed several dozen windmills along the way.

Interestingly enough, most have been converted into private homes, complete with grazing sheep like the three differently colored lambs below.

Around half way through the trip there were a trio which were still working, pumping water up some two meters and over a dam. One of those housed a museum. Amy and I spent an hour wandering the exhibits on our previous trip so we didn't spend the money for the admission this time. With the exception of picture stops to capture things such as the multi colored peonies below,

we came straight through until we reached a little canal ferry.

This was a bit traumatic for us as it was the same little boat which had been on holiday the last time we were through, causing us to ride 10+ extra kilometers on a day which was already very long. Today the ferry was running and we stopped on the far side for Amy to have coffee and apple pie.

Purmerend is another pretty cheese city which is essentially a suburb of Amsterdam. It should be a relatively short ride to end in Amsterdam, even if we take a twisty, turny route in. Dinner began with liverwurst, toast and a fruit dip. Next was bacon wrapped pork tenderloin, peas and a mixed salad. Dessert was orange crepe with crème fresche. Total distance 38 km.