Haarlem, North Holland, The Netherlands April 16, 2926

It was a twenty minute stroll along streets like this and over….

…..canals like this, to arrive at a ….

…..nature park!  This is where I chose to spend a couple of hours this morning. There is so much to see and do here in Haarlem in North Holland. The city is steeped in history and architecture. There are museums, churches, galleries and monumental structures. With such beautiful weather, I opted to admire all that from the outside and go inside the park.  

There were many dirt trails to follow.  

There was a symphony of bird song echoing throughout. 

 I was able to spot a few of the musicians to capture photos off.  

Eurasian Blackbird

Eurasian Blackcap

Song Thrush

a young deer

European Robin

a pond with Mallards, Gadwalls and Coots

also a barn with animals and a playground 

There is a teahouse with seating inside and out. I originally thought I would have lunch here but by the time I finished enjoying the park, I was not yet ready to dine.  I worked my way along the trails to the outskirts of the park then followed the narrow streets back to city centre.  

By now it was time to sip and savour.  I found a table on the canal’s edge. 

The locally brewed beer paired well with this sandwich and the scenery. 

Yes, that’s a sandwich not a salad!

After the late lunch, it was time to stroll again.  

The bridge opened….

…..to let this yacht pass through.

I made a quick stop at my home away from home to drop off my pack before continuing on with my walk.  While walking I got distracted.  I came upon a lovely looking spot that beckoned me.  I settled in! This time I paired an Aperol Spritzer with a serving of…..

….crispy frites with frite sauce.  

As the weekend approaches, the activity on the waterway is increasing.

The weather was beautiful, the number and variety of boats was interesting to gawk at. My spot by the water was perfect.  I could not let go yet.  So…..I ordered another beverage, this time nonalcoholic and paired it with a serving of bitterballen. Each restaurant serves it with a different kind of mustard, this was the best yet!

The boating activity continued!

Eventually, I left that perfect spot overlooking the canal.  

There was more ground to cover so I carried on.

There was a line up of boats to get through once the bridge was up. 

See that little orange heart at middle right, that’s where my perfect spot was!

 By now I was ready to call it a day and 

settle in for a laid back evening at my home away from home!