Aboard Burra Billa in Utrecht, Holland

Burra Billa beside the River Vecht at Maarssen

Utrecht is one of Hollands first towns, almost 2000 years old but is still fresh and well kept. Our approach was stunning. The River Vecht runs through a semi commercial/residential area where it becomes a canal which led to our first lock. A 1 metre lift, it was a very sedate affair compared with last years experiences in France. From then on it was pure Holland. The canal is set several meters below the road and the lower level is lined with restaurants, full with holidaymakers enjoying the rare sunshine as they sat under umbrellas at tables set on the cobblestones beside the water's edge. The canal twisted and turned and, as we motored beneath bridge after bridge, our seamanship was open to fearsome scrutiny from the crowds just meters away. We were so close we could have nicked one of their delicious Dutch pastries!

Following the crowd of boats through Utrecht

One of many stately homes along the river's edge

We have bought museum passes and have seen five or so already. Each has been well worth a visit and there are many more to see. We've been using our bikes too, joining the throng of cyclists - it's the most popular way to get around.