Dutch Countryside From Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, Zaanse Schans

Leaving the bustling streets of Amsterdam behind, this Dutch countryside tour transports visitors to a world of historic windmills, quaint fishing villages, and artisanal craftsmanship. From marveling at the iconic Zaanse Schans to exploring the well-preserved 17th-century architecture of Edam, the journey promises an immersive experience that delves into the enduring traditions that have shaped the Netherlands. Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to witness the intricate process of cheesemaking, offering a deeper appreciation for the country’s renowned culinary heritage. What secrets and delights await beyond the city limits?

Key Points

• The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Dutch countryside, transporting visitors from Amsterdam to historic windmills, quaint fishing villages, and traditional craftsmanship.
• Highlights include the Zaanse Schans open-air museum with its collection of well-preserved 18th-century windmills, and demonstrations of traditional clog-making.
• The picturesque town of Edam is known for its well-preserved 17th-century architecture and iconic landmarks like the public weighing house.
• Visitors can enjoy the centuries-old maritime traditions of the charming fishing village of Volendam, with its colorful harbor and wooden boats.
• The tour also includes a cheese tasting experience at a traditional Utrecht cheese farm, where travelers can learn about the art of cheesemaking.

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the picturesque Dutch countryside, transporting them from the bustling city of Amsterdam to a world of historic windmills, quaint fishing villages, and traditional craftsmanship.

Aboard a comfortable single-decker coach, guests will enjoy live commentary and multilingual guidance as they explore the highlights of the region.

From the well-preserved architecture and clog-making demonstrations at Zaanse Schans to the charming 17th-century town of Edam and the traditional fishing village of Volendam, this tour provides an immersive experience that allows travelers to step back in time and witness the enduring cultural heritage of the Netherlands.

An optional canal cruise in Amsterdam caps off this enriching day.

Destinations Explored

The tour takes visitors to a collection of picturesque Dutch towns, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history and traditions.

In Zaanse Schans, visitors can marvel at historic windmills and witness a demonstration of traditional clog-making.

The charming town of Edam is known for its well-preserved 17th-century architecture and public weighing house.

Volendam, a traditional fishing village, boasts a picturesque harbor, the iconic St. Vincent’s Church, and the wooden Stolphoevekerk.

Lastly, the tour includes a visit to a Utrecht cheese farm, where guests can indulge in a cheese tasting experience, learning about the art of cheesemaking.

Zaanse Schans Windmills

One of the highlights of the Dutch countryside tour is a visit to the historic windmills at Zaanse Schans, where visitors can marvel at these iconic structures and learn about their traditional craftsmanship.

The open-air museum features a collection of well-preserved windmills, some dating back to the 18th century, which were used for a variety of purposes such as grinding grain, sawing wood, and producing oils.

Visitors can explore the interiors of the windmills and witness demonstrations by skilled craftsmen, gaining insight into the engineering and mechanics that powered these remarkable machines.

The windmills at Zaanse Schans offer a unique glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich industrial heritage and the enduring legacy of these symbols of Dutch ingenuity.

Edam’s Architectural Gems

Picturesque 17th-century architecture adorns the streets of Edam, a quaint Dutch town renowned for its well-preserved historical buildings and public squares. Visitors can explore the town’s charming cheese market and weigh house, both iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time. Edam’s distinctive architectural style features red brick facades, stepped gables, and wooden shutters, creating a harmonious and authentic atmosphere.

Architectural Highlights
Old Town Hall	17th-century building with a distinctive stepped gable
Cheese Market	Vibrant outdoor market where Edam’s famous cheese is sold
Public Weighing House	Historic building used to weigh goods and produce
Dutch Gabled Houses	Traditional brick houses with stepped gables and wooden shutters

The town’s well-preserved heritage and peaceful ambiance make Edam a delightful stop on any journey through the Dutch countryside.

Volendam Fishing Village

On the banks of the Markermeer, Volendam stands as a quaint fishing village steeped in centuries-old maritime traditions. Its colorful harbor, dotted with wooden boats, serves as a lively center where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the town’s authentic Dutch character.

Visitors can explore the picturesque St. Vincent’s Church, with its distinctive wooden Stolphoevekerk architecture, and witness the lively fish auctions that still take place on the docks.

Wandering through Volendam’s charming streets, one can admire the traditional wooden houses and costumes of the local residents, offering a glimpse into the region’s cherished cultural heritage.

This historic fishing village provides a captivating window into the Netherlands’ enduring coastal traditions.

Utrecht Cheese Tasting

The tour includes a stop at a traditional Utrecht cheese farm, where visitors can sample an array of locally produced cheeses.

At the farm, guests are greeted by knowledgeable cheesemakers who share the history and process of crafting these Dutch specialties. Visitors can watch as the cheesemakers demonstrate the intricate techniques used to create the rich, creamy textures and distinct flavors.

The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to taste the farm’s selection of cheeses, from the iconic Gouda to the tangy Maasdam. This hands-on experience allows travelers to enjoy the dairy traditions that have defined the Dutch countryside for generations.

Traditional Craftsmanship

Throughout the tour, visitors are captivated by the enduring traditions of Dutch craftsmanship on full display.

At the historic Zaanse Schans, guests witness skilled artisans crafting iconic wooden clogs using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

Similarly, at the Utrecht cheese farm, knowledgeable cheesemakers demonstrate the intricate process of transforming fresh milk into the region’s beloved dairy specialties.

The tour’s immersive experiences allow travelers to:

1. Observe the meticulous handwork of clog makers carving and shaping the wooden footwear.
2. Learn the art of cheesemaking, from curdling milk to aging the final product.
3. Gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and skill required to preserve these age-old Dutch traditions.

Additional Tour Details

Along With the culture, the tour also offers a range of convenient features to enhance the overall experience. Travelers can enjoy live commentary from an onboard guide, who provides multilingual narration to bring the sights and history to life.

On top of that, the single-decker coach ensures comfortable transportation throughout the day’s itinerary. With a duration of 7-8 hours, the tour allows ample time to explore the Dutch countryside at a leisurely pace.

The tour’s Badge of Excellence and 534 positive reviews further attest to its high-quality standards and exceptional customer satisfaction. The Dutch Countryside tour seamlessly combines cultural exploration with practical amenities, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable journey for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children. It includes interactive activities like clog making and cheese tasting, and provides multilingual guided commentary. However, the duration of 7-8 hours may be long for some younger travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator does not provide meals or refreshments, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is allowed. However, alcoholic beverages may not be permitted.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear are recommended, as the tour involves walking around historical sites and villages. Travelers should dress for the weather conditions on the day of the tour.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers customizable options, including private transportation and flexible itineraries, to accommodate the needs of larger groups or special requests.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Destination?

The tour allocates around 1-2 hours at each destination, allowing visitors to explore the historic windmills, traditional villages, and sample local delicacies. The overall duration of the tour is 7-8 hours.

Recap

This immersive Dutch countryside tour offers a unique glimpse into the country’s enduring traditions.

Visitors can marvel at the iconic Zaanse Schans windmills, explore the well-preserved 17th-century architecture of Edam, and discover the charming fishing village of Volendam.

The tour also includes a cheese tasting experience, allowing travelers to witness the intricate process of cheesemaking and appreciate the rich heritage of Dutch craftsmanship.