Today’s few showers didn’t take anything away from the Dutch countryside scenery. We followed the immense rivers, slowly meandering through the flat landscape for centuries.

The water taxi gave us a nice break from walking. From the “Nieuwe Merwede” river, we had excellent views of the fortified towns of Gorinchemem and Woudrichem. Time has stood still in these small towns. Clearly visible in the skyline are the characteristic old towers and walls.

We followed our route to Brakel following the “Afgedamde Maas.” The Dutch changed the main course of the river when the rivers Rhine and Maas were separated in the late 19th century to reduce the risk of flooding. Although the “Afgedamde Maas” still bears the name, it no longer receives water from the Maas.