Perhaps Bruges' relative anonymity is what has kept it so intimate and nostalgic. The motto here is ‘feel the past under your feet’. The city’s crisscrossing canals and cobblestone streets have seen many seafaring traders since the 9th century, when this Flemish capital was founded on an inlet of the North Sea. It grew to be a wealthy trading center with Antwerp and England, though lost its trading powers in 1490 when the Reie River silted up. The city retains a lively and invigorating atmosphere reminiscent of one of Jan van Eyck's 15th century masterpieces. The influences of other Flemish artists also still exude in the northern Renaissance architecture and also in the 13th to 15th century cathedrals. The large Markt Square in the center is lined with cozy outdoor cafés that surround the Belfort. This belfry rises 272 feet and has a 47-bell carillon. Climbing the tower's 366 steps will offer a rewarding view! From here, you'll cycle over streams and quiet country roads though Flemish's tranquil landscape to Ghent. The city's medieval red-brick gables are architecturally exquisite and the St. Bavo's Church houses an invaluable piece of art by the Van Eyck brothers, The Ghent Altarpiece: The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (1432). From here, you'll cycle back into Holland to the quaint villages of Goes in central Zeeland and the seaside town of Willemstad. Amsterdam will be the tour's final destination, and impressively so. With over 6800 historical buildings and an endless array of canals and bridges, Amsterdam is truly a sight to see (along with Rembrandt's famous Nightwatch on display in the Rijksmuseum).

***Now open for 2011 bookings:***
On the Standard Plus class ship, the Feniks: July 23, 2011.