Have you ever wondered how far you can get in a single day? During Europe’s recent heatwave, I found myself asking exactly that question. The answer turned out to be surprisingly simple: far enough to leave the loud noises behind. My journey began in Amsterdam, a city famous for its canals, cycling culture, and laid-back rhythm. But instead of staying, I pointed the car west and headed for the sea.
Behind the wheel of the Audi Q6 e-tron, Audi’s latest electric SUV, the beginning of the drive enveloped me in an electric silence inside the cabin, occasionally accompanied by a playlist of my favourite 1970s classics and pop songs. As the landscape changed into open fields, tree-lined roads, and cycling paths, the drive itself became part of the experience, allowing my eyes to rest on the horizontal flats.
The destination was the Dutch North Sea coast. The North Sea has shaped life in the Netherlands for centuries, defined by its tides, shifting coastlines, and vast beaches. By evening, I arrived in Cadzand-Bad, the Netherlands’ southernmost seaside resort, just a few kilometres from the Belgian border. Known for its sandy beaches, protected dune landscapes, and calm atmosphere, the town feels far away from the energy of big cities.
Stepping out onto the beach, I felt the cool, fine sand beneath my feet, the cool water, and breathed in the scent of salt carried by the wind.
Later, over a seafood dinner by the beach, we enjoyed the long summer evening. During the meal, Mariska Kret, Professor of Comparative Psychology and Affective Neuroscience at Leiden University and director of the CoPAN Lab, spoke about the deeper science behind our perception. She explained how differently people experience the exact same moment, even when we share a room, our unique attention, memories, and emotions guide us toward entirely different realities. What stayed with me most was her emphasis on human connection: a simple hug, a smile, a small gesture of kindness, experiences that remain physical, profoundly human, and foundational to how we process the world around us.
And that brought me back to the theme of the trip: the five senses. Later that night, sleeping with the balcony door open, I listened to the sound of the sea.
The next morning, we continued our route via Rotterdam before returning to Amsterdam. Rotterdam offers a contrast to the historic Dutch cities most visitors know. Rebuilt after the Second World War, it has become an architectural playground defined by contemporary design, innovative urban planning, and Europe’s largest seaport.
Looking back, the Audi Q6 e-tron helped me shape the mood of the journey.
Would I drive it in Berlin? Probably not. Berlin is one of those rare cities where owning a car often feels optional.
For the next road trip, I certainly would.