The Netherlands is a country with a stunning landscape of green fields and over 1000 windmills. The countryside around Amsterdam is full of hidden treasures that can be easily visited on a day trip from the capital. Leaving behind the busy city life, tourists can discover the picturesque towns and villages that show a different side of this beautiful country. These places were also the inspiration for many famous painters like Cuyp or Van Ruisdael, whose works can be seen in the Rijksmuseum.
- One such charming destination is the village of Zaanse Schans, known for its well-preserved windmills, traditional wooden houses, and crafts workshops. Visitors can witness the traditional process of making wooden shoes, cheese, and even witness the grinding of spices in a historic windmill.
- Another must-visit spot is the town of Volendam, located on the shores of the Ijsselmeer lake. This fishing village is famous for its traditional clothing, vibrant harbor, and fresh seafood. Travelers can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, savor delicious herring, and capture stunning photographs of the picturesque scenery.
- Further south lies the town of Haarlem, boasting a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Its beautiful central square, Grote Markt, is surrounded by historic buildings and offers cozy cafes and shops. Haarlem is also home to the Frans Hals Museum, where visitors can admire works by the Dutch Golden Age painters.
These hidden gems around Amsterdam offer a glimpse into the enchanting countryside and showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Netherlands.
Amsterdam Windmill Tour
Windmills are one of the symbols of the Netherlands, and they can be seen dotting the countryside around Amsterdam. These iconic structures have a rich history and serve as a testament to the Dutch people’s age-old battle against water. Throughout the centuries, windmills played a crucial role in pumping water out of the low-lying lands, reclaiming and protecting the fertile fields from flooding.
Today, many of these windmills still operate and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Exploring a working windmill is a fascinating experience that allows you to learn about their intricate mechanisms and the ingenious engineering behind them. The countryside near Marken and Zaanse Schans is particularly renowned for its impressive windmills.
In addition to their functional significance, windmills also hold a special place in Dutch culture and have inspired countless artists and writers. They have become an enduring symbol of the Netherlands’ resilience, innovation, and harmonious relationship with the natural environment. So, when visiting Amsterdam and its surroundings, be sure to embark on a windmill adventure to appreciate the country’s rich heritage and witness these majestic structures in action.
Zaanse Schans Windmills
Zaanse Schans is a village that preserves the traditional Dutch polder landscape and it is one of the best places to see the windmills in action. The village got its name from the river Zaan and its role as a fortification (schans) against the Spanish invaders during the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648). Later, in the 18th and 19th century, the village became an industrial hub, powered by hundreds of windmills that made Zaan the first industrialized region in the world. Visiting Zaanse Schans is like traveling back in time to witness the golden age of Dutch industry and trade. The village has several windmills that can be visited, as well as museums, workshops and shops that showcase the local crafts and products.
Marken
Marken is a traditional village that was once an island, until it was connected to the mainland by a causeway in 1957. The village has a unique culture and character, thanks to its centuries of isolation from the rest of the country. One of the most striking features of Marken is its wooden houses that are built on stilts to protect them from flooding. The village also has a distinctive style of clothing and folklore that attract many visitors.
Marken is a place where one can experience the authentic Dutch way of life that has been preserved for generations. The village also has a clog factory where one can see how these wooden shoes (klompen) are made by hand. Clogs are not only part of Dutch heritage, but also practical footwear that can resist sharp objects and even acid!
Dutch Clogs
Dutch clogs are wooden shoes that are worn by many people in rural areas of the Netherlands. They are also recognised as certified safety shoes by the EU, because they can protect the feet better than modern shoes with steel toe caps. In case of an accident, the wood will crack instead of bending and trapping the foot.
Most clogs today are made by machines, but there are still some traditional clog makers who produce them by hand. One of them is located in Marken, where one can watch how a skilled clog maker can make up to seven pairs a day. The clogs are also painted with colourful patterns and designs that make them artistic as well as functional.
Volendam Village
Volendam is a charming fishing village with colourful wooden houses and a lovely harbour full of old fishing boats. The village has a history that dates back to the 14th century and it has a quaint atmosphere that makes it a popular tourist destination. Volendam is also known for its seafood delicacies, such as kibbeling, eel and herring, that can be enjoyed at the stalls along the harbour.
Another attraction in Volendam is its cheese factory, where one can learn about how cheese is made in the Netherlands and taste some of its famous varieties. Volendam is also a great place to arrive by boat, as one can experience how fishermen used to return to their village after a day at sea.
To wrap up
In conclusion, embarking on a Windmill and Countryside Tour in the Netherlands offers a unique opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of nature’s wonders. The picturesque landscapes and historic windmills found in the countryside around Amsterdam reveal the country’s rich heritage and cultural charm.
- The village of Zaanse Schans stands out as a charming destination, showcasing well-preserved windmills, traditional wooden houses, and crafts workshops. Visitors can witness the traditional processes of making wooden shoes, cheese, and even experience the grinding of spices in a historic windmill. Marken, once an island, offers a glimpse into authentic Dutch life with its unique wooden houses on stilts and traditional folklore.
- Volendam captivates visitors with its vibrant harbor, colorful wooden houses, and delicious seafood delicacies. The village’s cheese factory provides an opportunity to learn about the art of cheese-making and savor famous Dutch varieties. These enchanting destinations allow travelers to immerse themselves in the Dutch countryside’s tranquility and capture the essence of its cultural heritage.
A highlight of the tour is witnessing the iconic windmills that dot the landscape. These symbols of the Netherlands represent the country’s struggle against water and showcase the innovative spirit of the Dutch people. Exploring a working windmill offers insights into their mechanisms and the engineering brilliance behind them. The windmills near Marken and Zaanse Schans are particularly noteworthy. By embarking on a Windmill and Countryside Tour, visitors can appreciate the serene allure of nature and experience the rich history, art, and cultural traditions that make the Netherlands a truly captivating destination.
