What's it really like to cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges — and sleep in your luxury floating hotel along the way?
In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable Amsterdam to Bruges bike and barge tour, one of Europe's most relaxing active adventures. Pedal flat scenic routes through the Netherlands…What's it really like to cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges — and sleep in your luxury floating hotel along the way?
In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable Amsterdam to Bruges bike and barge tour, one of Europe's most relaxing active adventures. Pedal flat scenic routes through the Netherlands and Belgium, cruise past windmills and riverside villages, and explore iconic cities like Amsterdam, Ghent, and Bruges — all while unpacking just once.
We cover the daily mileage, difficulty level, what life aboard the barge is really like, and who this tour is perfect for (hint: you definitely don't have to be a hardcore cyclist - it's FLAT!!!).
If you love active travel with comfort, culture, and incredible scenery — this one's for you. And if you've been trying to get your partner to join you on an adventure, this is the PERFECT vacation that allows for differing physical abilities and desires - just like with our guest today!
Press play and let's ride through Holland and Belgium. 🚲🛥️
You'll discover:
• What it's really like to live aboard a bike and barge
• How difficult (or easy!) the cycling actually is
• Who this tour is perfect for — and who might want an e-bike
• The highlights of riding through Amsterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, and the fairytale canals of Bruges
• Why boat and bike tours are one of the best ways to experience Europe
If you love active travel but prefer comfort over camping… if you enjoy cultural immersion without exhausting logistics… and if the idea of pedaling flat scenic paths through Holland and Belgium sounds like your kind of adventure — this episode is for you.
By the end, you may just find yourself planning your own Amsterdam to Bruges bike & barge adventure.
Take advantage of an exclusive Active Travel Adventures BoatBikeTours.com discount - email me for the current Boat Bike Tours promo code!
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your European adventure, photos plus more cool info about today's show.
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🎙️ In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, we are sharing the story of a very personal journey—a 2-week family bike trip through Northern France, Belgium and Netherlands. Joined by my wife, who was taking on her first loaded bike tour, and our young daughter, we set out to explore the co…🎙️ In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, we are sharing the story of a very personal journey—a 2-week family bike trip through Northern France, Belgium and Netherlands. Joined by my wife, who was taking on her first loaded bike tour, and our young daughter, we set out to explore the coastal charm, rich culture, and world-class cycling infrastructure of northern France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Over the course of this episode, we'll walk you through the planning, gear choices, and daily rhythms of traveling as a family by bike. We'll reflect on what it was like to parent on the move, how we kept our child engaged, and how we adjusted our pace to match the needs of the whole crew.
Along the way, we discovered vibrant cities like Bruges, The Hague, Breda, Antwerp and Ghent, stumbled into memorable meals, and met locals who reminded us why bike touring is such a powerful way to connect with the world. Whether you’re planning your first family tour or just curious about what it’s like to ride with a toddler in tow, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and a few laughs from the road.
To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:
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Panorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures.
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BarYak Bikepacking --> BarYak was designed in 2012 to solve the problem of bikepacking bags and systems that interfered with braking and shifting performance. Where will Your BarYak Take You?
The Bert Shoe --> The pre and post activity shoe for bike-packers, hikers and other free spirits. Their shoe soles, crafted from recycled rubber, represent a harmonious blend of sustainability and social responsibility.
Ride With GPS --> Driven by pursuit of a better riding experience, founders Zack Ham and Cullen King set out to redefine the way cyclists create, navigate, and share routes.more
Bruges is a gorgeous Medieval city in Belgium. Besides the centuries old site, we learn about the best eats and drinks from Patrick Verleye, a foodie from Tour in Bruges. He talks about how to find a great chocolate shop, why you should get mayo with your fries, lace cookies, and the best hot chocol…Bruges is a gorgeous Medieval city in Belgium. Besides the centuries old site, we learn about the best eats and drinks from Patrick Verleye, a foodie from Tour in Bruges. He talks about how to find a great chocolate shop, why you should get mayo with your fries, lace cookies, and the best hot chocolate. Plus, lots of Belgian beer talk and several different kinds of waffles! [Ep 352]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides at Buy Me a Coffee
In this episode, my friend Stephanie from @thebackpackingmom and I recount our adventurous trip to Belgium and Amsterdam, highlighting our experiences traveling with kids, managing illness, and exploring beautiful cities like Bruges and Ghent.
Things you'll hear about in this episode:
• Travel…In this episode, my friend Stephanie from @thebackpackingmom and I recount our adventurous trip to Belgium and Amsterdam, highlighting our experiences traveling with kids, managing illness, and exploring beautiful cities like Bruges and Ghent.
Things you'll hear about in this episode:
• Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but flexibility is key.
• Bruges feels like a fairy tale town, perfect for wandering.
• Ghent offers a more medieval vibe compared to Bruges.
• Managing a sick child while traveling requires patience and adaptability.
• Amsterdam is a very walkable city with beautiful sights.
• Booking attractions in advance can save time and hassle.
• Traveling with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable.
• Kids can surprise you with their adaptability while traveling.
• Food is an essential part of the travel experience, especially local treats.
• Every trip has its challenges, but they often lead to the best memories.
• Find yourself a mom friend to travel with! Resources + Links:
Find Stephanie on Instagram at @thebackpackingmom
Blog Post: Belgium, Amsterdam, and Luxembourg 7 Day Itinerary
