Paddenstoelen in Amsterdam, how romantic does that sound? Any idea what a Paddenstoelen is? Literally translated, it means ‘toad chair’ as particular toads sit on them from time to time. They sit on mushrooms.

It was a perfect end to another fabulous weekend in Amsterdam. I still had a sunny afternoon here in Sloterdijk and fresh air is always welcome.

Just outside of Harlem lies Landgood Elswout Overveen, part of a National Park.

Trading wealth was booming a century ago, and some prachtig housing impressed just as well.

Monique lead the way, as my camera kept me at a slower pace. 

There are many photo opportunities here today.

Like us, many others had the same idea.

Or was it the fact, that it was ‘Paddenstoelen Dag’ today?

This is big news for nature friends.

Mushrooms are fascinating.

Sizes, colors, and shapes vary.

Some grow solitary.

And others in large groups. There are all kinds of mushrooms in this forest, I didn’t expect to see so many.

Up in trees.

Others more permanent.

Most Paddenstoelen were spotted on the ground.

This forest is the perfect mushroom habitat.

Its fragile tissue doesn’t tolerate stress.

Oh, deer.

So cute. So delicate.

But it was the afternoon sun that made the most out of autumn colors.

I was surrounded by breathtaking views in either direction.

It felt like an Indian Summer’s day in October.

Reflections on calm waters doubled the visual impact.

The trails were very well made and incorporated with Nature.

The bridges too, were fabricated from local timber.

Paddenstoelen in Amsterdam isn’t always what it seems. A different variety of mushrooms is popular in downtown Amsterdam.

I felt like a mushroom on Sunday morning, 3 party nights out in town took their toll. And I hadn’t completed my tourist shopping yet.

Monique invited me to her couch in her small apartment over the weekend, which is perfectly situated just outside the city center.

Club 26 is commonly known by her many friends. She had the best summer in Amsterdam ever, she said. Festivals that got canceled during covid times all had the go-ahead. Raving to a glorious summer has sweetened shiny faces and revitalised Amsterdam. 

I made it through to 6 am on Saturday morning. It was a great night out. The day? Not so much. There was still Saturday night to go. 22 years ago, that was our night.

Vincent has family duties these days. But we had a lot of fun in earlier years. As we do when meeting up after all those years. 

‘Always a pleasure, never a chore’ he farewells me every time. It always is, mate. 

Whatever you think you know about Amsterdam is most likely true.

Here you can buy space cakes and backpacks in the same aisle.

Anything you can imagine includes cannabis.

Some clubs are open 24/7, the nightlife is insane.

Amsterdam caters to all tourists.

Grachten trips around the center comfort the international sightseeing group.

There is constant movement on land and water.

The tourist flow in the city center never slows down.

It is a stunning city in any way. Day or night.

I can’t deny the fascination I have with Amsterdam’s architecture.

Like a Clockwork Orange. Oops, Oranje of course.

Central Station is a prime example.

The details in some buildings are so meticulous, telling stories of the past.

Coffee by the water, Sir? Don’t mind if I do.

Many bikes are well-decorated along the waterways.

Look at all those flowers on this fiets. Almost romantic.

Or well-hidden midgets. 

But it’s the bikes and their highways that really gets you. This is not for the faint-hearted. It is Amsterdam’s fast lane. Fasten your seatbelt and off we go. A few tips to cycle with the flow.

Always be aware of your surroundings. And always expect a faster bike to overtake you at any time. One needs to pay attention and constantly look around, cars and pedestrians add to the mix.

Don’t hesitate or change your initial track. Always make clear hand signals about your intended direction. Never stop on the track and pursue the flow. That’s what I do.

Follow some confident local bikers and stick behind them. These locals know what dangers to look for.

My mountain bike had no chance of survival in Amsterdam, all bikes get chained with heavy locks. Hot property and style.

It really is fun to cycle around Amsterdam.

Particularly on calm and sunny early mornings.

A vibrant feel engulfs the city.

Serene waterway reflections always take my interest.

There’s always a bit of green hidden away, perfect for a stop. Paddenstoelen.