Jachthaven Valkenburg, Arnhem
map coordinates: 51o58’16/16”N 5o55’46.49”E
The Dutch have done it again.
Have I said often enough how much I like and admire them??? Have I said how much fun they are??? We came
into Arnhem early afternoon on Sunday. I
was a bit apprehensive about our chosen mooring. It is in an industrial area, again not a
beauty spot. In this case, DEFINITELY
not a tourist destination. It is
wonderful. Think Captain Jack Sparrow
meets Key West 1952.
At 11:45 AM they start playing caribbean music on the loud speakers, complete with steel drums. We decided it deserved a
blog entry all its own, especially since internet is included for the duration
of our stay.
First of all, the facilities are just too funky for words, with
the emphasis on FUN.
Then there are the storks.
Though they are Dutch icons, the first time I visited the Netherlands they were basically nowhere to
be seen. The second time, they were just beginning to return. Now, across from our mooring spot, there’s a
thin peninsula.
When they are not flying over the Rijn, there have been groups of
storks standing silhouetted on the berm.
Smaller than you might expect, and very thin. Difficult really to recognize them, they look like anorexic sticks, but talk about gorgeous water birds.
Then there’s the restaurant.
OK, look at the photos, words are just not going to do it this
time.
They seem to have quite a local following, and the place is packed until all hours of the night. Or should I say morning? I don't know how late, we just don't stay up that long, but the lights were still on when I got up around 3am. The food is really (REALLY) good, the area is incredibly peaceful for so close
to the center of a large city. The
neighborhood isn’t the best, but we’re just happy as clams here. The weather is great. The people here have been particularly
friendly, helpful, and just wonderfully easy going. We love it. Don't I just sound disgustingly happy??? Wish you were all here to share. More about Arnhem itself later.
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