Have you ever wondered what it's like to stand beside a giant windmill, watching its blades sweep the sky?
Windmills are one of the most iconic symbols of the Netherlands, representing centuries of Dutch ingenuity and connection with the land.
These historic structures are not just picturesque—they tell the story of how the Dutch people have worked with nature for centuries. In the quaint village of Kinderdijk, in the heart of the windmill country, you can immerse yourself in this living history. Ready for a journey through time? Let's dive into a day spent with the windmills.
1. Kinderdijk: The Heart of Windmill Country
Kinderdijk is one of the most well-known windmill sites in the Netherlands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the village is home to a stunning collection of 19 windmills built in the 18th century to manage water levels and prevent flooding. It's a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience the scale and beauty of these massive structures.
Major Attractions:
• Windmills of Kinderdijk: You can walk or bike along a beautiful path that takes you through the park, where you'll see these majestic windmills at work.
• Windmill Museum: Inside some of the windmills, you'll find interactive exhibits about their history and operation. It's a great way to learn about the science behind these incredible machines.
Ticket Prices (in USD):
• Entrance to the windmill park costs around $11 USD for adults and $5 USD for children.
• If you'd like to visit the museum inside one of the windmills, the price is about $6 USD.
Opening Hours:
• The windmill park is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the area is lush and vibrant. The opening hours are generally from 9 AM to 5 PM, but this can vary depending on the season.
2. Zaanse Schans: A Living Open-Air Museum
Another spot where you can get up close to the traditional windmills is Zaanse Schans, located just outside Amsterdam. This living open-air museum offers a deeper look into the historic Dutch way of life.
Major Attractions:
• Windmills: There are several working windmills at Zaanse Schans, each with a specific purpose, from sawing wood to grinding mustard. You can tour these windmills and see how they were used in daily life during the 17th and 18th centuries.
• Cultural Exhibits: Explore a number of wooden houses, shops, and museums dedicated to Dutch crafts such as clog-making and cheese production.
Ticket Prices (in USD):
• Entrance to Zaanse Schans is free, but certain attractions, such as the windmill tours, cost around $6 USD per person.
• For museum visits and demonstrations, expect to pay between $5-$10 USD.
Best Time to Visit:
• The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant and the area is most active. However, Zaanse Schans is just as charming in winter when the windmills look even more magical against the backdrop of snow.
3. Transportation: Getting to Windmill Country
Getting to these windmill sites is relatively easy, and there are a variety of transportation options depending on where you're staying in the Netherlands.
Public Transportation:
• Kinderdijk: From Rotterdam, take a waterbus (water ferry), which will take you straight to Kinderdijk in about 30 minutes. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel, especially on a sunny day. Tickets for the waterbus cost around $4 USD one way.
• Zaanse Schans: This location is only a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam Central Station. Once you reach Zaandam Station, it's a short bus ride or a 30-minute walk to the windmills. The entire round-trip costs about $15 USD.
Car Rental:
• If you're planning to rent a car, both Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans are easily accessible by road. Parking is available at both locations for a small fee, usually around $3-$5 USD per day.
4. Local Tips for the Best Experience
If you want to make the most of your visit to the windmills, here are some tips to help you enjoy the experience to the fullest:
1. Arrive Early: To avoid crowds, try to arrive as soon as the windmills open at 9 AM. Early mornings offer the best light for photography, and you'll have a chance to explore without the tour groups.
2. Take a Bike Ride: In Kinderdijk, there are plenty of bike rental options that will allow you to explore the countryside at your own pace. The bike paths connect several windmills, making it easy to take in the sights.
3. Bring a Picnic: Both Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans have lovely outdoor spaces. Pack a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surroundings after your windmill tour.
4. Check for Special Events: During the summer months, both Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans host special events like traditional Dutch festivals, clog-making demonstrations, and windmill festivals. Check the events calendar before your trip to see if there's something extra exciting happening.
Spending a day exploring the windmills of the Netherlands is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty with fascinating history. Whether you're strolling through Kinderdijk's UNESCO-listed windmill park or enjoying the charm of Zaanse Schans, these iconic structures offer a glimpse into the Netherlands' past and present.
From the whirring blades of the windmills to the surrounding countryside, the Dutch windmill country is a destination where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. Ready to step into the past and experience the power of these historic giants up close?
