Beyond Amsterdam there are many charming villages, towns, windmills and tulip fields to explore. The Dutch countryside is bursting with charm, culture and tranquility. These are three wonderful locations to get you started.
Zaanse Schans
Popular attraction 20 miles north of Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans once a fortification during the Eighty Year War of Dutch Independence from Spain is now best known for historic windmills and houses.
The colorful green and red windmills line up along the Zaan River and have unique names telling the history of Dutch countryside living. Do Os (The Ox) built 1663 is the oldest industrial oil mill in the area. The mill was operable until 1916. De Huisman (The Horseman) built-in 1786 as a tobacco mill; now operates as a mustard and sawmill. De Kat (The Cat) built-in 1762 is only working dye windmill in the world to produce paint. The youngest mill, Het Jorge Schapp (The Young Sheep) is a sawmill built-in 2007 and a replica of the original Jorge Schapp mill built-in 1680 and destroyed in 1942. The other windmills include De Gekroonde Poelenburg (The Crowned Poelenburg, 1869), De Zoeker (The Seeker, 1672), Het Klaverblad (The Coverleft, 2005) and the De Bonet Hen (The Spotted Hen, 1693).
Beside the picturesque views of the mills and Zaan River there are seven museums—including the Albert Heijn Museum, Zaun Time Museum, Bakery Museum, Jesper House, Weavers House and the Cooperage. Zaanse Schans gives old world charm and beautiful Dutch countryside. Recommend visiting off-season to avoid crowds.
Broek in Waterland
Broek in Waterland dates back to 15th century and is a charming village with scenic countryside views, lush landscaped walkways and traditional homes—and with 80 homes on the National Heritage Site it a great stop for architecture lovers. The St Nicolas Church dedicated to the patron saint of seafarers and The Famous House with 17th Century wall painting are also notable sites to visit. However, Het Havenrak provide scenic lake view and worth stopping if only for a moment take in. The village is best enjoyed by foot or bike.
Volendam
Volendam is a historic fishing town on the Markermeer Lake, northeast of Amsterdam. It’s is best known for the harbor, colorful wooden row houses, seafood and old fishing boats; and has a strong art scene with painting, music and pottery. The seafood is fresh but if there is one thing you should try—it’s the Herring sandwich with pickles and onions at V.O.F Snoek Visdelicatessen. It’s the signature dish in the area and you wouldn’t find better.
