Thurs. 3 November 2022
Well, the moral of the story is not to park your motorhome under trees if you have a choice. In this case we didn’t have that choice and certainly paid for it last night as we has to endure lashing rain and the constant dripping of the trees onto the roof. Bliss.
The rain continued all morning and followed us as we left the site for our Dethleffs dealer to get the driver’s seat fixed.
Once again the guys came up trumps and a fix was accomplished within thirty minutes. We duly arrived at Hunter Towers around lunch time and will tackle the clearing up when the weather improves.
Weds. 2 November 2022
It was great to hear from L and M this morning and we set off to walk into Dunwich Village to meet them for lunch.
The weather duly obliged for once as we waded through the leaves and along the cliff top. It is hard to imagine that Dunwich was once a thriving port as one looks out to sea. Coastal erosion has taken its toll over the centuries and a once thriving town, boasting some twelve churches, is now under the North Sea.
The Greyfriars Abbey ruin is now under threat as are the modern cliff top properties and it is only a matter of time before they suffer the same fate.
We managed to walk along the shingle beach for some distance and with the tide coming in returned to the village for lunch and a good old chat with L and M. We said goodbye in the late afternoon after a quick trip to the Coastguard Cottages and a cuppa on site.
The heavens opened after dark and it remains to be seen what sort of night we are going to have under the trees!
Tues. 1 November 2022
It was an interesting last night in Sizewell as we were kept wake for large parts by the lashing rain and the high winds. We survived and just about managed to avoid getting wet as we packed up ready for the trip to Dunwich.
The inevitable „breakage“ curse has struck once again with the slide mechanism on the drivers seat not working. Oh, to have long legs! It looks like the bar controlling the slide release mechanism has failed which unfortunately means a trip to the dealer. The joys of owning a motorhome! At least it didn‘t fail whilst we were in Germany.
We find ourselves now in Dunwich on a familiar site with a pitch under the trees.
The afternoon has been spent walking on the beach to the Coastguard Cottages. It‘s been more like a gym workout on heavy shingle, battling against the headwind and at times lashing rain but, hey ho, we are made of strong stuff!
Needless to say, it‘s 1 November and places are either closing early or not open at all. The sanctuary of the tea shop was not to be had on this occasion and we had to return to the site without that warming drink!
It‘s off to Dunwich village tomorrow on foot.
Mon. 31 October 2022
The weather did not disappoint on this last day of October as we woke to sunshine. A good day to get the bikes out.
We headed inland along the interestingly named Lover’s Lane and eventually made it to Leiston Abbey via some temporary bridle way diversions across the fields.
Strangely it was our first encounter with the Abbey ruins although we are relatively local. Interesting nevertheless.
It was then off to the small hamlet of Eastbridge and on to the Minsmere RSPB site. The Eels Foot Inn in Eastbridge is a little gem provided a wet lunch before heading back to Sizewell Beach via Leiston.
We managed to witness a wildlife beach survey by a rather large drone by the power station before returning to the site for a well earned cuppa. It’s travel day tomorrow as we make the small hop to Dunwich.
Sun. 30 October 2022
We’ve travelled to Sizewell on the Suffolk coast today for what could be our last trip in 2022.
It’s our first time on the Beach View site and we find ourselves on a site slowly winding down with lots of free pitches and facilities closing early. The clocks have gone back this weekend and it’s now dark by 5pm.
We had time after setting up to walk north along the coast for a close up view of the atomic power station. Take a look at the photos we shot.
We’ll see what tomorrow brings but the chances are we’ll be on foot.
Mon. 26 September 2022
It was a bit wet first thing this morning but with most things already packed we managed a quick get away from the site in Aldeburgh.
We headed south, dropping into our friendly MOT garage to see if the chip in Detlef’s windscreen would jeopardise any future pass test result. It would appear that we are good to go as the damage is not “in the line of sight”. Planning for next season can now begin without the fear of suddenly failing the MOT with the resulting long delay in replacing the windscreen. Oh, these forward planners!!
Speaking of forward planning. The motto of most motorhome drivers should be “check your exit before entering”, or at least it should be! Not today.
Yours truly committed the unmentionable when entering our friendly MOT garage forecourt today and spent a good fifteen minutes manoeuvring to get out again. The seemingly impossible was achieved with the help of my glamorous assistant whose patience in the line of verbal fire is truly amazing! Thank you E.
Sun. 25 September 2022
Another relaxing day here on the coast with everyone doing their own thing this morning before leaving M and yours truly to watch the footy on TV around lunchtime and early afternoon.
Both crews have now departed to get ready for the week ahead. We are staying over with our journey to Hunter Towers planned for tomorrow morning.
Sat. 24 September 2022
Birthday cards abounded this morning and what a good day it was.
The day passed so quickly with a wet afternoon walk to Thorpeness followed by a delicious Italian meal in Aldeburgh. Thanks to all for the lovely presents!
Fri. 23 September 2022
Well that was a quick turn around!
A week at Hunter Towers after the Germany /Netherlands tour and we find ourselves in Aldeburgh for the weekend.
The crew will be reporting in at various stages of the weekend and we look forward to seeing everyone again. The weather today is overcast with the prospect of showers so we‘ll see what the day brings.
The bikes will no doubt me making an appearance with Thorpeness high on the agenda for a visit. We don‘t mention the cream teas, however!
Thurs. 15 September 2022
An early start today as we took on the Antwerp ring traffic reaching the Channel Tunnel in three hours.
We were lucky to get an earlier crossing that the one we had booked and made it back to Hunter Towers at about 4 pm.
It‘s time to unpack.
Weds. 14 September 2022
We duly arrived here in Brecht, just to the north of Antwerp at 3.20 pm seven hours after leaving Beiseförth this morning.
The trip took a lot longer than expected with constant, heavy rain slowing things down a lot. Roadworks with lanes merging also caused havoc and we were glad to drop anchor when we did for a quick cuppa!
The plan is to hit Calais at around midday tomorrow and with any luck we might get an earlier crossing.
Tues. 13 September 2022
This will be the last entry into the travelogue for this tour as we look to complete the packing and think about the six hour journey to Brecht in Belgium tomorrow. It‘s the same site we used on the way to North Holland so hopefully we‘ll get no surprises. At least we don‘t have to visit the local supermarket this time!
The weather here in Germany has brightened up since the wet start and the damp mats will have to be dried out at Hunter Towers. We‘re off to see J and S this evening before a reasonably early start in the morning.
The journey to Calais from Brecht is about three hours and given a good run we should be back at Hunters Towers on Thursday evening. Fingers crossed.
A big thanks to L and M for „minding the shop“ whilst we‘ve been away.
Mon. 12 September 2022
Our last day of visits as we headed to Melsungen for lunch with W with whom E had worked with in Spangenberg.
After a lot of reminiscing we headed to the Q Strasse to say goodbye to G and K and then into the town for a last bit of grocery shopping.
It’s packing day tomorrow.
Sun. 11 September 2022
It‘s been a few years since we‘ve been to a typical German village „Kirmes“ and our visit to Malsfeld today didnˋt disappoint.
It has to be said that going to such an event with the locals makes it. Thanks to J and S for a very enjoyable time. We duly arrived in the great marquee just before the village procession arrived and had just taken our seats before the band started. Perfect.
Many conversations later (as well as a few beverages) we walked the 3 km home to reflect on a fun day.
Sat. 10 September 2022
Overcast and thankfully a lot of rain today here in North Hesse.
We managed to go shopping on the bikes to Malsfeld without getting wet. S popped in later but it was a quiet day.
It‘s the Malsfeld „Kirmes“ this weekend and we‘ll be heading over there tomorrow. Hopefully we‘ll also be able to get a glimpse of M on TV as he competes in the Great North run in Newcastle.
Fri. 9 September 2022
It was a „double day“ as our Golden Wedding anniversary coincided with Mˋs birthday.
The first surprise of the day was to find a present left outside Detlef as E went to the bakers. Thanks to J and S for the goodies!
The day was spent either on the phone or responding to messages. C visited in the afternoon before we made our way to a local restaurant for a super evening meal with the Beiseförth crew.
Thurs. 8 September 2022
The rain finally arrived here as we awoke to the pitter patter sounds on the roof!
The train journey to Kassel takes about twenty five minutes from here and gave us an interesting alternative look at the landscape as we cut through the rolling hills of North Hesse. The mistake of the day was forgetting the Covid masks, or one of them, with masks still compulsory on public transport!
It was good to see R, C, F and B again. Thanks for your hospitality once more.
We spent the afternoon walking in Schönfeld Park in Kassel clocking up 11 km and even got to see some of the Documenta Festival exhibitions.
We got back to the site here in the late evening after F very kindly offered to drive us. Thanks for the BBQ guys and see you soon in the UK!
Weds. 7 September 2022
A full programme today as we once again headed to Morschen in the sunshine.
We managed to visit three „sets“ of friends in total and still had time to take some photos from high points overlooking the village.
We made it back to the site around 6 pm and after a quick change spent a great evening at the B‘s house here in Beiseförth.
Itˋs off to Kassel tomorrow by train to visit the W‘s.
Tues. 6 September 2022
Another easy morning here on site. The bikes were checked over before we set off to meet J and S for our cycle ride to FriedWald, a forest cemetery between Rengshausen and Ersrode. Some good friends have their final resting place there.
On paper our route was the same as at the weekend but we hadn‘t reckoned with a road closure so it was a case of taking the gravel forest tracks. The terrain was interesting to say the least and would have suited a full mountain bike. Without the e bikes we would have been totally lost.
The 25 mile round trip resembled skiing as a group with a long line of riders all trying to avoid disappearing off the track and down the slopes into the trees. One steep, never ending climb will stay deeply etched in the memory for some time!
The reward for our efforts was a cool beer in the local Italian restaurant, quickly followed by a bite to eat. The „recovery“ lasted all evening, needless to say.
Mon. 5 September 2022
I suppose you could call this a mini rest day with us staying on site until late afternoon. It was good to catch up on daily housekeeping. Even the guitar made an outside appearance!
We were picked up at 5 pm by T in his 448 horse power BMW for the ride (flight) to Oberbeisheim for a cousins BBQ. A very pleasant time was had by all. It was good to catch up and thanks for the hospitality.
T duly flew us back to the site here. What a car!
Sun. 4 September 2022
The site here in Beiseförth has been relatively noise free since our arrival but for a second night running we‘ve had people being unreasonable. Thank goodness we at the far end of the site and well away from them. Ear plugs did the rest.
We decided to cycle to Rengshausen via Niederbeisheim, a round trip of 25 km to visit cousins and spent the afternoon chatting. The bikes coped well with the outward climb and flew home as we returned to the Fulda Valley floor.
We are heading in the same direction tomorrow evening but without the bikes; T is very kindly picking us up by car for the trip to Oberbeisheim.
Sat. 3 September 2022
Incredible to think that the first week of our stay here in North Hesse has flown by and that we are already entering the second weekend.
We‘ve done so much already thanks to M, E and the countless number of other family members and friends that we have met.
This weekend marks the start of our „Golden Wedding“ anniversary week. It‘s quiet unreal to think we were married here on 9 September 1972.
We duly headed off in the afternoon to cycle the five odd miles to Neumorschen where we were due to meet a life long friend in M. The customary welcome Schnapps went down well before we made our way to the Lichterfest celebrations within the village church grounds.
The next few hours were spent greeting and chatting to people we had not seen for years. The surprise on faces was priceless as the penny dropped. Had the years been kind? Perhaps someone will make a judgement afterwards.
The beer and bratwurst stalls were doing a roaring trade by early evening and we were lucky to be able to go inside the church where it all happened all those years ago and where E was christened in 1979.
The Cinderella moment struck not shortly before midnight but around 8 pm as we made a hasty retreat to the bikes to try to get back to the camp site before dark. The cycle ways and roads are good but with a few „on road“ sections we thought it better to have some light to navigate in!
All in all, a memorable day.
Fri. 2 September 2022
The pace of life here in North Hesse has been geared down a couple of notches as we find ourselves without the company of family and friends.
Well, that‘s not strictly true. The morning was spent doing a bit of housework which was followed by a cycle ride to Melsungen via Malsfeld.
We returned to the site in the late afternoon to be met by J, a friend from the village and spent a couple of hours chatting in the bar! Say no more!
There was a deep base „thump“ on site last night which required the ear plugs to be called into action. I suppose it had to be expected at some stage of the trip. Thankfully we are at the other end of the site.
To put the noise issue in context, we are separated from the rest of the village by the River Fulda. The village church is opposite our position across the river and it‘s bells ring out three times per day – 8am, 11am and 6pm. That‘s noise. It only lasts for a couple of minutes though!
Thurs. 1 September 2022
Time. It seems to go faster and faster these days.
E, M and the girls left on the first of their two legs back to the UK. With an overnight stop in the Brussels area they should be back home late tomorrow evening (Friday).
Yours truly spent most of the day trying to get the website working and with almost a weeks worth of photos to sort the die was cast for the day. It is still work in progress.
The bikes were manhandled from their perches on Detlef around tea time for the 14 km return trip to JH‘s birthday BBQ. A good evening was had by all as we met faces from the past. We duly made it back to the site near just as it was getting dark.
Sat. 27 August to Weds. 31 August 2022
Firstly, an apology about the old Travelogue. It seems it got too full (memory wise) and had to be replaced by a “new page. I’ve duly added the posts back to the start of August 2022 so it should be good to go from now on.
It’s been sooooo busy here in North Hessen since our arrival, hence the lack of posts on the site. Well, here goes on trying to summarise what we’ve been up to.
Last weekend saw the three families all together on the site after E and M;s arrival. You’ll see from some of the photos that we set up in a rectangle that gave a comfortable seating area for all.
The weekend was spent chilling, chatting and playing games. Yatzi seems to have won the “king of the games” title. Thanks to O, M and the boys for a great weekend and see you in the UK soon. Oh, and we just had time to squeeze in a Sunday evening meal with C, a friend in the village!
M, E and the girls had three full days with us here after the weekend.
A visit to Neumorschen on Monday morning brought back memories and it was great to bump into a few old(er) faces. Thanks to G,K and H for their hospitality in the evening as we enjoyed a family BBQ.
Tuesday saw us head out in M’s car to visit Spangenberg and Melsungen. Both have really old town centres and it was a pleasure to roam the cafe lined streets and have a look in some of the shops. Needless to say the highlight was the Italian ice cream parlor in Melsungen followed by an evening visit to the “Gruenen See” in Soehrewald.
M and E’s last full day was spent at Waldeck on the Eder Dam (Dam Busters Fame). You’ll see how little water there is at the moment with a drought here in Northern Europe.
It’s travel day tomorrow for M, E and the girls. Safe trip.
Fri. 26 August 2022
It had to rain on travel day didn‘t it? And how.
We had to endure a good ninety minute soaking just as we were packing away this morning but we still managed to make it to Beiseförth by lunchtime.
The site here is under new management and a lot of improvements have been made. We‘ve been allocated a place overlooking the lake and are now good to go.
E‘s cousin G turned up on his E Scooter in the afternoon and we spent most of the afternoon chatting. O, M and the boys arrived at tea time and we‘ve again spent the evening outside chatting. We‘ve managed to negotiate three vehicles on two neighbouring pitches so it‘s going to be tight when E, M and the girls arrive tomorrow.
Thurs. 25 August 2022
With only a single full day here in Braunlage there wasn’t a lot of debate as to what to today. We’d already decided before arrival to go up to the highest point above Braunlage (the Wurmberg, 971m) by cable car.
We set off from the site after breakfast for the 2 km walk across the fields and through the village to the bottom station which was surprisingly quiet. The trip to the top station took about fifteen minutes and it was on this slow ascending ride that we were greeted with the shocking reality of the environmental catastrophe that has hit this part of Germany.
The devastation we witnessed on our approach to Braunlage yesterday was confirmed in no uncertain terms as we surveyed the forests from above with our view to the Brocken (1141 m), the highest point in the region.
The photos tell their own story. Reading up on the problems, it would appear they have been caused by a combination of the bark beetle, lack of water and warm temperatures. The trees in wetter weather produce enough sap to kill the beetles’ as they attack the bark but with little water the sap production has been insufficient.
We move on to Beisefoerth tomorrow for our “long” stay. We hope that the forests there are not so affected as here.
Weds. 24 August 2022
It was a short hop this morning (relatively) as we made Braunlage in two hours even with a fuel stop. We even had a twenty minute wait at the site barrier as the site closes until 13.30 for “Midday Quiet”, a quaint old German custom.
We’ve landed up on the site’s “Stellplatz” with a half a dozen other motorhomes mainly from Holland and Germany. The “pitches” are minimalist in terms of space and only have an electricity point but that’s fine for a couple of nights. The alternative is a bigger area with full facilities close at hand. There is, of course, a price premium.
We were somewhat shocked as we left the north/south Autobahn this morning and started our climb to the site here in Braunlage with the condition of the once beautiful, full forests.
A hugh area of the pine forest is diseased and there is utter devastation in many parts. It was a case of “find the living tree”, I’m afraid. It will take years just to remove them let alone thinking about regeneration.
So, it’s late afternoon here and our thoughts turn to “the plan” for the rest of the day and our only full day tomorrow. More than likely we’ll wander into the village later and the cable car trip looks a good bet for tomorrow although I’m not sure I want to see more forest damage.
Tues. 23 August 2022
A quiet day here on the Steinhuder Meer and even more evidence that the holidays are over – very few children.
The plan for today as you will be aware was a morning boat trip on the lake followed by a walk to Mardorf. And that’s how it played out.
An hour on the lake in an electric motorboat was interesting, especially as the wind got up. How far could you go before turning for home? We managed it but you had to keep your wits about you with some speedy sailing craft around!
We made Mardorf for a coffee around lunchtime and it was then back to the site for a chill. We’ve just eaten in the site restaurant before we launch for Braunlage in the Harz mountains tomorrow.
Mon. 22 August 2022.
Frustration abounds today as the internet speed is soooooooo slow. You can wait for ages for a single page to appear!
We duly managed the 32 km bike trip around the lake here near Hannover and what a difference a day makes. There were a lot less people about today compared with Sunday and that obviously made a difference to our progress.
Just after our half way stop in the village of Steinhude we had a call from F to say he was close. He was on his way south from the Baltic coast and we duly met at the site here for an afternoon chat before he continued on his way.
We did, however, manage to fit in the obligatory Curry Wurst at lunchtime which went down well.
We’re looking to hire a boat on Tuesday for an hour.
Sun. 21 August 2022.
It was a case of double checking the Sat Nav this morning as we once again unexpectedly took the A7 Autobahn south. By my reckoning we should have been going to the Steinhuder Meer overland! But hey ho.
There was a lot of Sunday traffic but thankfully no lorries and most importantly no hold ups. It’s strange how sites have different rules and regulations and this was the second site in succession that had a two hour closure from 1 to 3 pm. We duly arrived at 11.30 am and therefore were able to set up in all peace and quiet.
The site here is on the northern edge of the large Steinhuder Lake and our pitch is quite large. The schools in this part of Germany start up in a couple of days so it’s relatively quiet, even for a Sunday.
We’ve spent the afternoon walking by the lake and taking a few shots with the camera.
The plan for tomorrow is to cycle round the lake, a distance of about 32 km. We’ll let you know how we get on!
Sat. 20 August 2022.
It was one of those days. Look at the map and go for it.
The tourist map indicated a couple of car parks in the Heide and off we went not knowing what to expect.
We ended up discovering the old Heide village of Wilsede, tucked deep off the beaten track north west of Behringen. The photos from today tell their own story.
It was then back to the site for a wonderful afternoon following ITFC and their 0—3 win.
This evening has been spent in the site restaurant for our first eat out meal of the tour.
It’s off to the Steinhudermeer tomorrow for another three night stay.
Fri. August 19 2022
An overcast day here in the Heide. Bikes at the ready and off we go.
The plan – a 5 km circular walk around Pietzmoor south east of Schneverdingen. The brain has to rewind to the geography lessons of the late 60’s. Heather Moors and Peat Bogs come to mind. Always good for a joke then and reality today. Apparently 3% of the world’s surface has Peat Bogs and Heather Moors and Pietzmoor is the largest example in this area.
The turf layer is around 6 to 7 metres thick and has been worked in several places. The “Excalibur” tree stumps poking out of the depths were somehow scary and when you consider the turf layer grows about 1 millimetre per year they will be visible for a few more years yet.
The late afternoon was spent back on site with a welcome sit down on the bar terrace.
It’s off into the heather again tomorrow.
Thurs. 18 August 2022
It was an unusually laid back morning for a travel day with no rush mainly due to the fact we couldn‘t officially arrive in the Lüneburger Heide before 3 pm. There was a hint of tiredness too.
We had been taken slightly aback last night as the rain lashed down as we tried to get to sleep so I suppose that accounts for the lethargy felt this morning.
We duly settled our dues before making our way across the bridge to the mainland finding a convenient fuel stop to secure the next few miles of the journey. Never let the fuel level get too low!
Today‘s drive was taxing it has to be said. I could use other language which would not be really appropriate here.
The Autobahn from Lübeck to Hamburg was one large building site going on for miles – contraflow with stop and start. More stop than start. Then the inevitable contact lens problem. Find a place to stop. Off we go again.
The Autobahn south to Hannover was just as bad and a quick decision to exit paid dividends as we continued to move whilst others ground to another halt.
We did actually arrive before 3 pm and were shown to our pitch by some of the staff without going through the reception procedure. That was done later.
The cold shower that yours truly took whilst setting up will long be remembered for the wrong reasons. Our pitch water supply hosepipe decided to “explode” whilst we were filling up and the resulting fountain would have done Trafalgar Square in London proud. Thanks to our nearest neighbour for a quick but wet fix (for both of us).
The afternoon has been one of exploration and getting a few maps together for the next two days.
It had started to spit again here but that’s nothing to what M and E have had in Venice with the storms down there.
Weds. 17 August 2022
Our last full day on Fehmarn and a final chance to clock up a few more miles on the bikes.
The bridge over the “Fehmarn Sund” from the mainland was the target for today’s ride but in fact we carried on and ended up doing a 25 mile circular tour to the main town of Burg.
It was quite a “muggy” day and visibility was not ideal for last-minute photos but we did our best. Burg was full of tourists as you would expect at this time of year but that did not stop us getting a terrace table at the local ice cream parlour.
One final shout out for the cycle paths here. They are brilliant. You can literally cycle (car free) for miles.
We’ve been packing away this evening ready for the trip to Luneburg tomorrow, a trip which should take about 3 hours. There is a slight problem, however as we cannot get into the site until 3 pm and have to leave here latest at 11 am. I can see a stop at a motorway services coming up.
Tues. 16 August 2022
We headed north along the dyke cycle path today heading for Westermarkelsdorf and the two lighthouses. The original is now dwarfed by a more modern equivalent.
It was then east along the dyke to the Niobe Monument and a welcome coffee stop. The north coast of Fehmarn does seem to be the most popular side of the island. We passed a lot of camp sites most of which had motorhomes in the first row looking out to sea.
The villages inland were a complete contrast as we headed down to meet Mr Aldi in Petersdorf. Definitely a case of careful shopping so that it all went into the bike paniers!
It was then back to the site to drop off the shopping before heading to the Greek restaurant in Orth for an evening meal.
What we hadn’t reckoned with was the thunderstorm that caught up with us just as we came off the exposed dyke and into the village. We were already soaked as we made the restaurant, the terrace of which had instantly become a mini lake of its own!
The sun umbrellas and shades quickly bowed under the pressure of the rain and the staff abandoned their guests to man step ladders to push the offending bulges away.
So, there we were. Dripping wet and shown to a table. Undiluted chaos all around as the terraced guests were quickly reseated inside. Their meals relocated with them.
The meal was, as you might guess, a wet, stressful affair. Memorable for the wrong reasons.
We survived to head back along the surprisingly dry(ish) dyke cycle paths to Detlef. Luckily we had closed all the windows and put away most of the outside things so they didn’t get wet.
The photos will be updated at some point today.
It’s a sort out day tomorrow with travel day to the Luneburg Heath on Thursday.
Mon.15 August 2022
A nostalgic day here on the island of Fehmarn as we looked for the Jimi Hendix memorial stone. We duly found it after a quick sprint by bike along the top of the dyke, aptly tucked away just off the duned coastline.
Hendrix performed his last concert here on 6 September 1970, some twelve days before his death in London. All did not go well, however, as he had refused to play in the rain and the concert was delayed by several hours, much to the fans’ annoyance!
It was sobering to think that this was almost fifty two years ago. A definite case of what might have been in terms of music talent. RIP Jimi.
And so we followed the dykes for the remainder of the day, heading south to the Fluegge Lighthouse and on to Orth for lunch and then Lemkenhafen. The cycle paths were busy and extremely dusty and the bikes could do with a good wash. Perhaps next week when it is due to rain!
It was good to catch up with E and M in Italy via Facetime and it looks like they are having an enjoyable time.
We are looking to do a shop tomorrow morning with a trip north along the coast later.
Sun.14 August 2022
The alarm duly burst into life just after seven this morning to signal the start of another travel day.
The weather was fresh this morning and if I’m not mistaken there was a period of rain in the night. We managed to leave the site in Schillig at 8.40 am, jettison the waste water in the motorhome service area and hit the road.
The Sat Nav decided to join the various British workers on strike at this point and it was not until the reserve unit had been deployed that some normality returned and stress levels decreased. The problem Sat Nav did revive itself after a couple of hours, however. Strange.
The route was straight forward. Motorway to Oldenburg and on to Bremen and Hamburg. Inevitably there were traffic problems around the latter although we never actually came to a total stop it was quite frustrating at times.
The autobahn to Luebeck was also slow and we duly crossed the bridge onto the island with about four hours on the clock. The roads on the island are similar to those in Suffolk, namely narrow and twisty but we managed to negotiate our way past oncoming cars and vans with little problem. Patience was the name of the game. Definitely a case of “after you”!
The site here at Flueggerteich is mini compared to Schillig and we were shown to our pitch by the owner on his Segway. That was a first.
This afternoon, or what was left of it, was spent doing a quick explore on foot. We managed to find the beach and more importantly, the start of the cycle way along the dyke. We have three full days here. Ironically, our newly arrived neighbours have just come from the site we go to next at Luneburg.
The Jimi Hendrix memorial is just up the road from here and no doubt we’ll give that a look before very long.
Sat.13 August 2022
It was good to hear from a couple of “Englanders” this morning with calls from B and M.
The bikes were dusted down for their last appearance on the North Sea coast with the town of Carolinensiel the destination.
The site here was very busy today with an adjacent market in full swing as we left heading west along the coastal dyke cycle path. We had a quick look inland at the village of Minsen before returning to the dykes and the numerous sheep grazing along its entire length, or so it seemed. One thing is for sure. The tyres are no longer black!
The East Frisian Islands off the coast were visible along the whole route to Carolinensiel with the ferry to Wangerooge starting its journey from the port.
The inner harbour area was busy hosting some kind of sailing boat regatta but we never did find out what it was all about.
We returned to Schillig in good time to follow the progress of ITFC against MK Dons in the afternoon match back in the UK and I’m pleased to report a win. As extra beer was ordered to celebrate!
Detlef is packed once more ready for our four to five hour journey across country tomorrow to the island of Fehmarn in the Baltic. Watch this space for further updates.
Fri.12 August 2022
It’s been one of those days I’m afraid!
The activities over the past week seemed to catch us up today with a feeling of being too hot and bothered to do a lot.
First task today was to go shopping at the local supermarket in Horumersiel along with five million others. Yours truly guarded the bikes as E braved the shop. It was then back to base to drop off the purchases and have lunch.
This afternoon was interesting. We headed to Hooksiel a ride of 12 km passing the many naturist beaches along the way, making it to the harbour. It was at this point that E announced that her mudguard had lost a screw and was “flapping” and making a noise.
Que the “find a cycle repair shop” routine! An aborted ask Mr Google was followed by an 8 km dash back to Horumersiel to be told that the repair shop was in Hooksiel (where we had just been).
Two unhappy bunnies then burned it back to Hooksiel in a Tour de France record time trial and eventually found the repair shop tucked on some remote indiustrial estate. The guy there was superb and did a great job although he did have to remove the rear wheel to secure the mudguard once again.
Our reward was a “Schwarzwaldbecher” ice cream at the local Italian Ice Café before we eventually started for the site here in Schillig. A wrong turn later and we eventually made it clocking up nearly 36 miles for the day.
This evening has been spent silently sitting in a chair doing nothing!
Thurs. 11 August 2022
We said goodbye to Vierhouten at 8.40 am this morning before hitting the motorway to Zwolle and Germany.
The drive was fine except for a couple of diversions but we did manage to get some fuel on the way saving a job on Sunday next.
We arrived in Schillig at 1.00 pm, a trip of just over four hours. The site here is hugh and it was no wonder that we were asked for our covid passes. It’s the first time this has happened this trip.
We’ve been out and about on foot this afternoon. The site is criss crossed by dykes and we were interested to get an impression of the cycling routes. They look good and perhaps we’ll venture out tomorrow.
It’s been warm here today and with the temperatures set to rise further we’ll see what tomorrow brings.
Weds. 10 August 2022
We’re so lucky with the weather here in Holland and today was no exception as we spent the morning with Evert and Mieke on the bikes to visit Hulshorst with its magnificent windmill.
The sun has been with us all day and we have just returned from a local restaurant where we enjoyed a great meal with great hosts. Hopefully we will see Evert and Mieke again soon in the UK when they visit Hunter Towers.
Thanks both of you for the past few days.
It’s travel day tomorrow as we head to Wangerland in North Germany.
Tues. 9 August 2022
Today has been another glorious day both weather and entertainment wise.
Evert and Mieke very kindly drove us to the Hansa Stad Elburg on the edge of the Ijseelmeer. We spent the day sightseeing and strolling through the old town with lunch at one of the many harbour restaurants.
I’ll let the photos from today do the talking.
The rest of the day has been spent back at the site doing a few chores and generally chilling.
The bikes look as if they will be called into action tomorrow as we go hunting for windmills amongst the heather.
Mon. 8 August 2022
The cows in the adjacent field made an early visit to the fence separating us as the new day dawned. What beasts they are with their accompanying white goats not far behind.
It was a prompt 11 am start for a bike ride through the local Vierhouten Forest and Heathland full with heather led by Evert and Mieke. For once it was pleasure to play “tail end Charlie” and not have to worry about directions.
I never cease to be amazed at how brilliant the cycle paths are, even deep into the forest. Only in a few places did we have to venture onto dirt tracks. All in all we managed just short of 20 miles taking in the village of Gortel before heading to the “lost village” deep in the forest.
During World War 2 a group of Dutch Jews hid in half buried wooden huts in the wood and survived until 1944 when they were discovered by soldiers. The “village” has been part recreated with the site having its own monument to those that lived and died here.
After the mornings exertions we enjoyed a pancake lunch at a local hostelry and are now chilling on site with the cows getting ever more noisy as the day unfolds.
Thanks to Evert and Mieke for their company today and we look forward to our car excursion tomorrow.
Sun. 7 August 2022
Travel Day today as we headed from Den Helder to Vierhouten, near Zwolle.
We were pleased with the journey time of just over two hours which was made without any lorries on the road. Bliss. Our journey took us south on the motorway before turning off to Hoorn and on to the long dyke road crossing the Markermeer between Enkhuisen and Lelystad.
Vierhouten is a picturesque village tucked well into the forests north of Apeldoorn. The site here is small with a mixture of static homes, caravans and touring campers.
We were greeted by Evert and Mieke who quickly sorted out the formalities. The pitch they organised is perfect with great views over the fields and into the forest.
We met up this afternoon for a forest walk and afterwards they showed us their lovely static caravan summer house on their refurbished site. We spent a lovely evening with them with the promise of a joint cycle tour tomorrow.
Sat. 6 August 2022
What a day! A bike trip to the Island of Texel from Den Helder by ferry. What could possibly go wrong?
The weather was perfect this morning for the five mile ride to the ferry in Den Helder. The lady behind the ticket counter at the terminal greeted us politely as we asked for two returns. Yours truly laid the twenty Euro note down only to be told that cash was not accepted. Card payment only!
The problem was that we had not brought any cards with us!
Enter three Dutch mountain bikers, one of whom kindly offered to pay for us. We gave him the cash and bought all three a coffee. Happy days! The half an hour crossing went quickly as we chatted away in a mixture of English, German and Dutch. Brilliant. Thanks guys!
All in all, we managed 38 miles during the day and only headed back to the ferry and Den Helder after a certain part of the body could not sit on the saddle anymore. Lightweights!!
Before the discomfort set in we had made it to Den Burg before heading east to Oudeschild for lunch. It was then over to De Koog on the west coast before we made our way south through the Texel National Park.
We raided the local supermarket on our way back to the site here in the Donkere Duinen and having already filled up with diesel on arrival we are good to go tomorrow as we head to Vierhouten to meet Evert and Mieke once more.
Fri. 5 August 2022
What a difference a good night’s sleep makes although it has to be said we were taken aback by how chilly it was!
The bikes were made ready just after breakfast for the day’s adventure – south along the coastal site cycle route to Juliansdorp before heading back north past our Donkere Duinen site and on to Den Helder.
The dunes here are amazing and unlike anything seen in our part of the UK. They extend inland for some distance and are very undulating. The cycle route cuts through them and along the high dykes that protect the low hinterland from the sea.
Julianadorp was a bit disappointing it has to be said. Instead of the expected old Dutch fishing village we were greeted by a holiday chalet metropolis and all that goes with it.
The wind jackets came out of the bags on the return leg as we battled the wind from the north. It looks like we’ll take the ferry to the island of Texel tomorrow and we were treated to a meeting of the vessels out to sea as we cycled along the dyke to Den Helder.
Most of the morning was spent exploring the town with the Marine Museum being high on the list for a visit. Take a look at the latest photos from today.
The return leg via Nieuw Den Helder and De Zandloper took us to the lighthouse and fort on the highest part of the dunes. Then it was back to the site for a coffee before chilling in the afternoon sunshine.
Off to the island of Texel in the morning.
Thurs. 4 August 2022
We left Het Veen around 9.30 am this morning arriving in Den Helder just after midday. The roads in Belgium and Holland are brilliant both for motor vehicles and bicycles alike and we seemed to float along!
The site here in the “Donkere Duinen” is very close to the sea and on a similar line to the North Norfolk coastline. It’s reasonably full but not heaving.
We had lunch and quickly made the bikes ready for action. First task was to bike along the cycle ways into Den Helder to check out the ferry crossing to the island of Texel, a 30 minute crossing. Hopefully we’ll try this on Saturday.
The return trip saw us take the coastal cycle path across the dunes with the amazing sea defences on show. It’s easy to see why they are called the “low countries”.
It’s a bit colder this evening. Time for a quick bit of blog writing, shower and some sleep.
Weds. 3 August 2022
It wasn’t quite as abrupt as the start of Pink Floyd’s “Time” but the alarm that sounded shortly after 2 am this morning certainly had the same effect! Instant consciousness.
A look at the latest travel information confirmed the overnight road closures on the A12 were thankfully only around Colchester with the way seemingly clear onto the M25 and into Kent. And so it was.
We were able to check in at the EuroTunnel complex at around 6 am, managing to sneek an earlier crossing than the one we had booked. Result. There was even time to mount the modified “Angles Morts” stickers to Detlef before engaging any French official. We need not have bothered! No checks.
This was the first time since the Pandemic and Brexit that we have ventured away from UK shores. The fuss about the necessity for a Covid passport seemed to have evaporated overnight. Again no checks.
As for Brexit and the benefits, ummm. Long queues to get your passport scrutinised and stamped and the fridge in Detlef redundant as we could no longer take food. Happy days!!
It was just as well that we opted for an overnight stop in Belgium before heading to our first Dutch stop in Den Helder as fatigue well and truly hit around lunchtime.
The site at Het Veen is just off the motorway, north of Antwerp and great for an overnight stay.
We didn’t know it as we arrived but a chance chat with our neighbour led to an interesting evening in the campsite bar. Enough said!
Mon. 2 May 2022
It was a quick pack away today ready for the planned two hour trip back from Kelling.
We managed to leave by 9.30 but had a delay on the Norwich bypass due to an accident. It was on to Hunter Towers after a fuel stop and all was done and dusted by early afternoon.
Until the next trip.
Sun. 1 May 2022
A slightly overcast morning here in Norfolk as the racquet skills were once again called upon in a match with H and J.
M and E decided to go for a run which turned into a very creditable 10.3 km – a personal best distance for E. Well done.
The car took the strain this afternoon once again as we headed to Wells Next the Sea for a forest/ beach walk to Holkham, some 12 km in all. There was time afterwards for a relaxing sit on the beach watching the world go by. The trip was concluded with a “Fish and Chips” supper and a walk around Wells Town.
This evening has been spent packing away before the clan landed for a round of Ludo. Congratulations to M and E for a comprehensive win and I am pleased to report that the board stayed on the table – just.
It’s travel day tomorrow as we head back to Hunter Towers. Our thanks to M, E, H, J and S for a great couple of days. Until the next time.
Sat. 30 April 2022
The first job of the day was to get the bikes ready for their first outing of the year, albeit round the site.
By lunchtime we has clocked up some six miles in the lovely April sunshine.
The afternoon saw us whisked away by M & E to Sheringham for a walk and explore. The beach provided great entertainment for the girls as their sand fort and its walls eventually crumbled as the tide came in.
An ice cream later we were back in the car and soon had the BBQs on full gas cooking tea.
A pleasant evening of “Uno” and “Ludo” followed with victory cruelly snatched from Yours Truly in the later by E and H.
Fri. 29 April 2022
The trip to North Norfolk was interesting today as we took a detour to Detlef’s dealer to sort a couple of issues.
Our route took us back into Suffolk from Essex via Sudbury and Bury St Edmunds before heading to Swaffham and Fakenham. We arrived here in Kelling spot on noon.
The site here is large and situated on a mixture of heathland and forest. It’s privately owned and caters for all forms of camping from tents to motorhomes, caravans and even chalets and statics.
The afternoon has been spent setting up and chilling before meeting S. M & E and the girls arrived just after tea.
There was even enough time this evening for a stroll around the site. We are quite high here in Kelling with a great view to Weybourne and the sea.
Weds. 13 April 2022
We said good bye to the Old Stables at 9.00 am and were back at Hunter Towers by 11.30. via Norwich and the A140.
Luckily, our fuel search in Derbyshire proved well worth it as there was precious little diesel to be had in Norfolk today! The same was true in North Suffolk but we managed to find a secret Shell station on the A14, much to my surprise and delight! who would have thought that filling up with diesel would be such a pleasure?
The unpacking has taken most of the afternoon with more maintenance issues pending – failed lights etc but we’ve now got some time before another North Norfolk visit with the family later this month.
Tues. 12 April 2022
The notes from yesterday are extremely brief, aren’t they? My excuse – I was wind swept and tired after some nine hours lakeside!
Today, by comparison, was less tiring due mainly to the rise in temperature and the wind dropping. The waggler was jettisoned today and it was straight into method feeding using pellets. The results were pleasing with various sizes of carp caught up to five pounds.
E once again ventured out on foot making a Walsham circular tour. Some of her photos are included in the latest photos section.
Mon. 11 April 2022
it was an early start for yours truly at the lake and by close of play twenty five fish had been landed. It was quite windy but this didn’t detract from the fun!
E made it once again into North Walsham but varied the route.
It’s more of the same tomorrow.
Sun. 10 April 2022
We managed to leave the site by 9 am for the four hour drive to North Norfolk.
The route took us across country via Newark which on reflection was a mistake as the roads left a lot to be desired. Does the county of Nottinghamshire actually repair pot hole damage?
We found the Old Stables in North Walsham without problem and it would appear we have the small site to ourselves. After a quick lunch we walked into the town for a quick look round. It’s fishing tomorrow for your’s truly with E planning a walk.
Sat. 09 April 2022
The “malfunction klaxon” sounded early on as the Thetford loo cassette decided to throw a fit! It’s back in some sort of shape for the coming few days but its days are numbered and a replacement is called for me thinks!
It was therefore a late start to our attempt to explore Baslow and surrounds but we made our circular route in good time before the rains once again curtailed activity in the afternoon. There was even time for the obligatory “Cream Tea” in Baslow.
It’s travel day tomorrow as we head to North Norfolk.
Fri. 08 April 2022
The sun was shining this morning as we joined the many visitors to Chatsworth House and what a day we enjoyed.
We managed to get tickets to visit the interior of the house in the afternoon which left us all morning to explore the gardens and outbuildings. Hopefully, the photos posted a moment ago will show what a wonderful place this is.
It’s been raining here since about 4.00 pm and we didn’t get wet. It’s off to Baslow tomorrow for a look around.
Thurs. 07 April 2022
They say that having a Motorhome must be fun. That’s true but with the fun comes a shed load of “stress” and so it was today as we headed to Derbyshire.
The first problem of the day was to find fuel for Detlef and that was not guaranteed. Luckily we managed to get some in Ipswich but unleaded was not available! Yours truly is beginning to lose all respect for those protesting about climate issues with their actions preventing the normal distribution of fuel!
The second problem of the day was the wind – gusting like mad throughout the trip. No wonder the knuckles were red when we arrived at Chatsworth!
The site here on the estate is quite full but we managed to get a decent pitch giving good TV reception. After lunch it was chill time before walking to Chatsworth House for a quick look before our visit tomorrow. Very impressive.
The showers have now abated and the sky is clear. It could be a cold night,
Mon. 21 March 2022
What a difference a day makes! The onshore winds had abated as we left Kessingland this morning making it a case of “what might have been” as far as the fishing was concerned but we live to fight (or fish) another day!
Hunter Towers came into view at about 11.30 am after a failed attempt to get some diesel at our local tank station. To make matters worse, Detlef was hit by a few loose stones on the A14 around Ipswich resulting in a sizeable windscreen chip which will need attention in the near future. It’s a ten day wait to get someone to check it out.
On the positive side, the water system seems to be back to normal after draining and filling again earlier. There seemed to be a slight airlock over the weekend in Kessingland with the odd bit of “coughing” from the taps.
Detlef is out again on Thursday for its check up.
Sun. 20 March 2022
It was quite strange to have a lie in this morning but we were soon suitably clothed to brave the wind as we headed up the coast to Pakefield.
There were only a couple of people fishing and with the wind coming straight off the sea again I could only sympathise as they battled to cast past the breaking waves. Deja vu!
The trek to Pakefield took some ninety minutes over the mainly pebble beach and in some places firmer dunes. The cliffs along this stretch of coastline are slowly eroding with many trees now on the beach having fallen from their clifftop positions. It also looks as if some of the static holiday caravans will also have to be moved before too long.
As for Pakefield what can one say? A glance at the map shows it as part of a larger Lowestoft. The village looks to have had a thriving fishing industry looking at the number of small fishing boats now decaying on the beach.
The Sunday walkers were in abundance but in truth there was not a lot happening. Maybe the village is waiting for the tourists to fill the caravans waiting on the cliff tops.
We’re now back on site having walked back along the beach as the tide once again ebbs. Time for a cup of coffee.
It’s travel day tomorrow as we head back to Hunter Towers.
Detlef is booked in for the annual inspection later in the week. The list of problems isn’t that big thank goodness and hopefully they will all be sorted on the day!
Sat. 19 March 2022
The sun shone all day here in East Anglia and yours truly once again fished for seven hours whilst E made it to Pakefield and back.
It was a 7.30 am start with the tide coming in. There were a few Whiting about early on but the onshore wind was a problem for casting. With the surf up and the bites getting few and far between there was only one solution – back to Detlef for a shower and then head for the pub!
E made it to Pakefield today and is keen for a joint trek tomorrow.
Fri. 18 March 2022
An early start today with a 300 m walk to the beach.
It’s on these days that you wish you’d bought that fishing “wheelbarrow” to carry the gear over the pebble beach but hey ho, take it slowly and you’ll eventually get there (albeit with the longest arms in the world)!
All in all, yours truly was pleased to start fishing at 8.45 am whilst E headed south on her morning walk.
The tide was rising at the start of the session and there were Whiting about but bites tailed off around lunchtime. The fun was over by 3.30 pm and we live to do it all again tomorrow.
Thur. 17 March 2022
The first day of the 2022 season and it started with having to clean the Sahara sands off the vehicles at Hunter Towers before setting off to North Suffolk.
Don’t say it too loudly but the weather looks like it is going to be good during our stay.
We arrived spot on at 1.00 pm here on the North Suffolk coast and once again were lucky to get the last pitch on the beach-side of the site. Our set up took half an hour and then it was off for a beach walk. It looks good for a bit of sea fishing tomorrow.
It’s St. Patrick’s Day today although you wouldn’t realise it here on the most easterly point of the UK! The only pub isn’t serving food tonight so it’s off to the local fish restaurant.
Perhaps yours truly might catch a few tomorrow!