This last minute (weather dependent) trip was intensely biking focused. We were excited to put our new e-bikes to the test and were able to log some significant miles (about 100) during our two days in Holland, MI. Much to our delight, we also discovered a new spot (Douglas, MI) to explore further as we love visiting the west side of Michigan whenever we can.
In addition to biking, each morning, we ran around the Windmill Island Gardens (a small replica of Dutch shops and traditions) near our Marriott Courtyard Hotel in downtown Holland.
Most of Sunday was spent riding 40 miles to Saugatuck and Douglas. We really were on a quest to find Palazzolo Ice Cream Sandwiches (the best I’ve ever tasted). They consist of imported French sponge cake as the sandwich part and Palazzolo ice cream (all natural/basic ingredients). They are very difficult to find as they are only produced from a small business in Fennville, MI.
After many unsuccessful stops, from leads we followed, we finally hit pay dirt at a little market called Isabel’s in Douglas, MI. But what we stumbled upon was far more than the ice cream sandwich. Isabel’s was a gourmet market with terrific food, indoor and outdoor seating, and a community room for various events/activities. Every Sunday afternoon they host an Open Mic event for local artists to play their music. It was a very enjoyable lunch after a long ride and we loved listening to the local musicians.
In addition to biking, each morning, we ran around the Windmill Island Gardens (a small replica of Dutch shops and traditions) near our Marriott Courtyard Hotel in downtown Holland.\
On the ride back from Saugatuck we couldn’t resist a stop at 4 Two 4, our favorite brewery in Holland. The Scotcheroo Brown, Big Bad Banana Bread (Imperial stout), and Straight Outta the Barrel (strong scotch ale) were all fantastic. An individual Sluggo’s Pizza and salad (from next door) made for a very tasty dinner. When in Holland, you must include 4 Two 4 Brewery and Sluggo’s Pizza!
We took advantage of a late (4pm) check out on our last day in Holland and rode to Grand Haven (after waiting out a 1-hour rain delay). The late start made the 53 mile ride a challenge to get back in time for our check out (we had to average between 15 and 20 m.p.h.) with only a very brief stop in Grand Haven. We try to include visiting the west side of Michigan whenever we can and even though it was a short trip this time- it was well worth it!
Overall it was a very nice quick get away to the west side of Michigan!
Dak
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