Amsterdam

The next day we continued north with similar weather and a stiff tail wind. We flew across the next series of sea barriers with the noses of the large wind turbine pointing directly at us. We made it to Scheveningen, effectively the seaside suburb of Den Haag by about 5.30pm.

It was crowded with holidaymakers and impossible to find accommodation. It was rapidly getting dark and we decided to head into Den Haag, if the worst came to the worst we were only a few minutes by train from Delft.

About a kilometer from the station, and almost full dark, we spotted lighted buildings down a side street and decided it was worth a look. We came across the Hotel Des Indes, a five star hotel in the Meridien group. The true test of a five star hotel is how they behave if you arrive tired and grubby without a reservation and on a bicycle. The Des Indes passed with flying colors. The doorperson acted as though we were typical guests and politely offered to keep an eye on our bikes while we enquired about a room. The receptionist quoted the rate and nearly managed to hide her surprise when we accepted.

They agreed to bring our bikes inside and store them for us until the morning. We quickly cleaned up and dined at a French restaurant, Julian's on the opposite corner of the road, a very pleasant meal. Our room was on the fourth floor so we had a good view of the city.

We woke to a cloudy day that threatened rain. We considered spending the day at the art gallery and then taking the train to Amsterdam, but decided to risk cycling. When we checked out our Ortlieb bags added a touch of distinction to the otherwise drab collection of Louis Vuitton luggage in the lobby.