Stadsbuitengracht

The Stadsbuitengracht Canal, which translates in english to City Outer Canal, was built in the 12th century partly as a moat-like line of defense for the medieval, fortified city of Utrecht, and also to support commerce in the city after the Rhine River shifted to the south.

Our Airbnb is just a few blocks inside the canal's northeast corner, so this afternoon I strolled about halfway around it before cutting across to return. The canal averages a little over 100 feet wide; plenty of space for boats to pass. The first boat I reached--anchored in place--looked like an upscale restaurant inside. Curious, I looked it up and discovered that The Culture Boat is actually a cannabis store. Didn't see that coming!

An unpaved walking path fronts much of the canal, right up close to the water. The width of the canal, walking paths, and unrushed feeling out there reminded me of our days in Cuenca, Ecuador last winter. Feeling at peace with the world, with troubles largely out of sight and out of mind, shouldn't be so hard to achieve. I wish that feeling for everyone.

On the west side of the canal and near the train station, Hoog Catharijne, a very modern, multi-story mall straddles the canal. I passed through the ground floor, primarily a food court, and hope to check out the rest of the mall soon.

Utrecht has two other main canals in the city center, the Nieuwegracht and Oudegracht, the latter of which is known for a vibrant food, art and fashion scene. Another thing to check out soon. Altogether, these canals make Utrecht just as beautiful of a canal city as Amsterdam or Venice.

By the numbers:

5.7 kilometers to walk the full loop of Stadsbuitengracht Canal

15 feet – elevation above sea level at our 3rd floor Airbnb, according to whatismyelevation.com

17 letters in the name Stadsbuitengracht

13,948 steps today