Heat, hills, and hot air balloons

So, we understand that temperatures are on the rise again all over Europe. Our forecast is for 103 degrees on Thursday. Let’s hope the Maas River is suitable for swimming.

Two days after veering west to escape the Düsseldorf/Duisburg industrial stretch of the Rhine, we have arrived in the Netherlands. Our plan is to tootle through the old center of Maastricht tomorrow morning and then head north along the river. 

I am hoping that the Maas will renew our zest for bicycle travel and adventure. It was boring, hard work changing river valleys and I’d like to reap some rewards. Today was hours of construction, bumpy bike paths, and noisy highways. It was only 85 degrees but it felt hot. Dave had a queasy stomach. The kids were great sports, but I could tell they were wishing they were home eating pancakes with Grandma and Grandpa and swimming in the Calapooia. 

Then, toward the end of the day, when we’d finally reached the flattest country in the world, the hills began. Just a couple, but one of them rose up out of nowhere at a 12 percent grade! Holy moly. I stopped to push the bike at some point. How can it be that I’m 1200 miles and 8 weeks into a bike trip and I have to walk up a hill? And in the Netherlands?! Talk about pathetic.

It was some consolation to discover at the top that this was a famous hill and part of the Amstel Gold Race, which takes place every spring. The hill is called the Cauberg. Thank goodness Dave knew this, as it made us all feel a little better. Hot air balloons in our campground this evening. Beautiful.

Happy 80th birthday to Grandpa Gifford! -Liv