We went to a lovely cafe for coffee and croissant for breakfast. Really enjoyed the place and they even had a glass fridge full of bottled beer. I’d love one in my home! Then headed towards the River Maas for some photos and across the bridge for even more photos. The sky was very grey and atmospheric so great for photography. We walked along the cobbled streets admiring the architecture and local life. You certainly have to watch the cyclists, some of which text as they cycle.

They have some curious shops full of funny bits which I’m sure maybe useful…somewhere. Socks with ‘i hate everyone’ on and suction tools for getting boiled eggs out of hot water. Always fun to see shops in other countries. Never buy much because cannot be bothered to cart it home. Can you?

By midday we stopped for apples and water before climbing the red tower to enjoy the view. Steep claustrophobic steps ensued. Phew. We managed it…somehow! The red tower is called Sint Janskerk and is 17th century Gothic. The red tower can be seen for miles and a wonderful, unusual sight. The limestone tower was said to originally be covered with a coat of ox blood but has been restored with normal paint. After our arduous climb we were rewarded with sweeping views of Maastricht. Quite incredible.

After this we plonked ourselves in one of the local cafes and ordered tea and bitterballen. We joked how this will become a daily 3 o’clock habit. Must say I thoroughly enjoyed wandering around and then enjoying family chatter in the cafe watching the world go by with tea and bitterballen. In the square children chased birds, bikes whizzed passed and there was a hilarious woman posing Angelina style while her hubby was trying to photo her. It did look funny watching her pose, leg out, arm on hip, holding brolly as her man was getting soaked taking the photo.

During the evening we had another jolly family meal and a wander around the narrow cobbled streets.