AMSTERDAM TO PARIS, Bike and Barge on IRIS

Amsterdam to Vianen, first ride 15 km

We hope you’ll plan to arrive in Amsterdam a little earlier to make the most of this vibrant city before boarding. Since the IRIS will set sail shortly after your arrival, it’s an excellent idea to spend an extra night or morning exploring the canals, museums, and cosy cafés of Amsterdam before your cycling adventure begins.

Your journey officially starts at around 1:00 p.m. with your arrival on board the IRIS, your comfortable floating home for the week. If you arrive earlier, you’re welcome to drop off your luggage anytime after 9:15 a.m. and enjoy a stroll through the nearby harbor area.

Once everyone is on board, the IRIS will gently set sail, gliding through narrow bridges onto the IJ and the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal. Settle in on deck as the city slowly gives way to open countryside—a first taste of the relaxed pace that awaits you.

In the afternoon, we’ll offer a short introductory bike ride along the River Vecht, a region known for its stately country houses, windmills, and traditional cheese farms. Back on board, enjoy a sailing dinner from Breukelen, as we continue toward Vianen, a charming small town on the River Lek. You can relax on board for the evening or join the guides for a short walk through its historic center.

Vianen - Kinderdijk - Dordrecht 30 miles / 48 km

Today’s ride is all about the Dutch countryside at its best—rural to the max! We follow a peaceful stream lined with farms, meadows, and graceful windmills, where life seems to move at the pace of the turning sails.

Midway, we pause in Schoonhoven, a charming little town on the River Lek, long known as the Silver City for its master silversmiths. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed lunch or a bit of browsing in the quaint shop-lined streets before we continue our ride.

As the day unfolds, the theme of windmills comes fully to life at Kinderdijk, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights. This 18th-century land reclamation project features 19 historic windmills standing proudly side by side—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may wish to climb into one of them to see how they once kept the land dry, or simply enjoy a coffee overlooking this unforgettable panorama.

After our visit, the IRIS will take us on a short sail to Dordrecht, the oldest city in the Netherlands. With its bridges, canals, and slightly leaning church towers, Dordrecht radiates history and charm—an atmospheric place to end a wonderful day.

Dordrecht to Antwerpen (Belgium) Cycling from Willemstad to Tholen, 25 miles/ 40 km

This morning begins with a sailing breakfast, as the IRIS makes her way to Willemstad, a perfectly preserved star-shaped fortified town. Once an important defensive stronghold, Willemstad was named after William of Orange, the founding father of the Netherlands. Take a short stroll through its charming streets and sense the history behind its impressive walls and bastions.

From Willemstad, we start our ride along the Volkerak locks, an impressive feat of Dutch engineering where the country’s great waterways meet. Our route continues to Tholen, once an island surrounded by the wide Zeeland streams of the Rhine Delta. Though now connected to the mainland, Tholen has kept its fishing heritage and small-harbour charm, with echoes of its maritime past still visible in the old quays and boats.

Back on board in Tholen, we enjoy a relaxing afternoon sail and dinner, watching the landscape drift by as we make our way toward Antwerp. By evening, the city’s skyline comes into view—the spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady rising high above the river. We dock in the heart of this lively port city, where a pleasant evening stroll or a nightcap ashore makes the perfect close to the day.

Antwerp to Dendermonde 32 or 20 miles / 52 or 32 km, pick up in Temse.

The day begins with time to explore Antwerp, the glittering city of diamonds. Once home to the painter Peter Paul Rubens, the city still holds many of his masterpieces in its churches and museums. Antwerp’s Golden Age in the 16th century brought wealth through trade, especially sugar, and many of the grand buildings in the city centre still tell that story. As you stroll the cobbled streets, it’s easy to imagine life here 500 years ago, when merchants and artists filled the city with energy and ambition.

When it’s time to ride, we leave Antwerp in style—crossing the River Scheldt through an iconic cyclist and pedestrian tunnel, complete with vintage wooden elevators. On the other side, our route follows the river’s winding course through a region dotted with castles, meadows, and bird-filled wetlands. We pause for lunch in the garden of Castle Wisselkerke, then continue along quiet dikes and country lanes.

We end the day in St. Amands or Dendermonde, where the IRIS awaits. Tonight, we’ll share a Belgian beer tasting on board—the perfect way to toast the day’s discoveries.

Start at Dendermonde to Gent 25 miles/ 40 km

The Belgian country roads take us along small towns, lakes, castles and lead us to Gent,a city that perfectly blends medieval charm with modern life. Gent is a lively university city, so a lot is going on in this historically significant city.

In the Middle Ages, it was one of Europe’s wealthiest cities—its wool and linen trade made it a powerful centre of commerce and culture. The grand buildings along the canals still tell that story today. Gent is one of Belgium’s best surprises—friendly, walkable, and full of quiet beauty—cycle and walk along its canals, past stone bridges and gabled houses that have stood for centuries.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy—take time to explore the lively streets, browse the shops, or relax at one of the many cafés along the canals. For those who prefer a guided experience, your tour leader will offer a walking tour highlighting Gent’s cultural treasures, including the world-famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers in St. Bavo’s Cathedral. It’s one of Europe’s most celebrated masterpieces.

Gent to Bruges 25 miles / 40 km

Today, we’ll enjoy some extra time exploring the enchanting city of Gent before continuing our journey to the ultimate destination: Bruges.

Leaving Gent, we cycle through serene woodlands to reach an old estate, where we’ll savor a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature. Our route then follows a charming rail-to-trail path, leading us straight into Bruges—often called the Venice of the North. Docked right at the city centre, our barge gives us immediate access to Bruges’ picturesque canals and winding medieval alleys.

Stroll hand in hand along the cobblestone streets, admire centuries-old buildings, and let the rich history of this fairytale city unfold around you. As evening falls, enjoy a romantic dinner for two along the canal or a lively meal with friends, soaking up the magic and charm of Bruges at night.

Bruges, a full day to enjoy the town or have a last ride to the North Sea Coast.

Tomorrow, we set off on a delightful ride through the Belgian countryside toward the North Sea coast. Our destination is Blankenberge, a charming beach town where you can feel the fresh sea breeze and stroll along the sandy shore. Along the way, the route takes you past quaint villages, rolling fields, and picturesque canals—offering a true taste of the region’s serene landscapes and timeless beauty.

For those who prefer a more relaxed morning, you can stay on board and continue to explore Bruges. Wander through the cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and lose yourself in the city’s rich history. From the iconic Belfry and the Markt square to the serene canals and hidden courtyards, Bruges offers countless spots to discover, linger, and capture unforgettable memories.

Whether cycling along the scenic trails or soaking up the charm of Bruges, the day promises a perfect blend of activity, culture, and relaxation.

Tonight, our chef will prepare a farewell IRIS dinner on board

OH LA LA< PARIS! PARIS!

We end our journey in absolute style with a special treat: a private, hassle-free transfer by bus or minivan straight to Paris, the enchanting City of Lights.

Paris is pure romance—its history stretches for centuries, its streets are lined with elegance, and its art and architecture stir the soul. Stroll past the reopened Notre Dame, gaze at the glittering Sacré-Cœur, or lose yourself along the charming boulevards and hidden corners that have inspired lovers and artists for generations. Ohlala—this is the crowning moment of your adventure!

From the IRIS, you’ll be whisked directly to your 4-star hotel, your home away from home in the heart of Paris. Whether you plan to depart the next day or linger a little longer, the hotel shuttle makes every connection effortless.

And to make your first evening truly unforgettable, a guide will accompany you on a romantic dinner cruise along the Seine. Glide past illuminated bridges and historic landmarks, savour exquisite cuisine, and toast to the memories you’ve made—Paris at night has never felt so magical.

Relax, indulge, and let Paris work its spell: no stress, just romance, charm, and top-tier service every step of the way.

Adieu et au Revoir!

All good things have to come to an end. Today, you can use the airport shuttle to go to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Or, you book extra nights at your own expense and use the airport shuttle on the day you depart.