Zaanse Schans, Marken, Edam & Volendam – Day Trip

Explore the captivating world of traditional Dutch culture and heritage with the "Zaanse Schans, Marken, Edam & Volendam – Day Trip" by REMAZ TOURS GmbH. This immersive experience takes visitors on a journey through picturesque windmills, renowned cheese factories, and charming historic towns. From admiring the iconic sights to engaging with local craftsmanship, the tour promises to unveil the unique essence of the Netherlands. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to this rich tapestry of tradition, this day trip offers an opportunity to explore the heart of Dutch identity and uncover its timeless allure.

Quick Points

• This day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of iconic Dutch locations, including windmills, cheese factories, a boat tour, and traditional craftsmen demonstrations.
• Visitors can witness the milling process at Zaanse Schans, sample renowned Dutch cheeses, and observe the intricate clog-making craft.
• The tour provides an immersive experience into the rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions of the Netherlands.
• Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi, starting from Amsterdam Central Station at 12:00 PM.
• The itinerary involves significant walking and stairs, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

Tour Overview

This tour, titled "Zaanse Schans, Marken, Edam & Volendam – Day Trip", is provided by REMAZ TOURS GmbH, a tour operator based in Zaandam, Netherlands.

It has received 6 reviews with a 3.0 rating. The tour offers English and Spanish-speaking guides, and an audio guide available in 16 languages. The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

The tour covers traditional Dutch locations, windmills, a cheese factory, a boat ride, and clog-making demonstrations.

Transportation is by air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi, and the tour starts at 12:00 PM from Amsterdam Central Station.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and involves significant walking and stairs.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour takes visitors to several traditional Dutch locations, including the charming villages of Volendam and Marken, as well as the medieval town of Edam.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. Experiencing the iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans, a preserved historic village showcasing Dutch heritage.

2. Touring a cheese factory and tasting the region’s renowned dairy products.

3. Enjoying a 30-minute boat ride between Volendam and Marken, offering scenic views of the surrounding waterways.

The tour also includes the opportunity to observe the traditional craft of clog-making and visit an authentic Marker home from the 1940s, providing a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich cultural history.

Windmills at Zaanse Schans

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to experience the iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans. This open-air museum showcases an impressive collection of working windmills, providing visitors with a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich history of wind-powered industry. Guests can explore the interior of these remarkable structures, learning about their unique architecture and role in the region’s economic development. The tour includes a visit to an operational windmill, allowing participants to witness the milling process firsthand. With its picturesque setting and well-preserved windmills, Zaanse Schans offers a truly authentic Dutch experience.

Windmill Name	Date Built	Purpose
De Bloemendaler Molen	1692	Corn mill
De Gekroonde Poelenburg	1738	Oil mill
De Kat	1645	Sawmill
De Leeuw	1725	Corn mill
De Gooyer	1742	Mustard mill

Cheese Factory and Tasting

As part of the day trip, visitors get the chance to tour a cheese factory and indulge in a tasting of the region’s renowned dairy products.

The cheese factory tour provides a glimpse into the traditional cheesemaking process, allowing travelers to learn about the techniques and history behind this Dutch culinary staple.

The tasting experience offers the opportunity to sample:

1. Gouda cheese, a semi-hard variety known for its rich, buttery flavor.
2. Edam cheese, a hard, round cheese with a mild, nutty taste.
3. Maasdam cheese, a Swiss-style cheese with a slightly sweet, fruity profile.

These tastings showcase the diversity and quality of the Netherlands’ dairy heritage.

Boat Tour to Marken

Midway through the day trip, visitors embark on a 30-minute boat tour that transports them from the picturesque town of Volendam to the quaint fishing village of Marken.

The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the Dutch countryside, allowing travelers to admire the charming wooden houses and serene waterways that line the route.

Upon arrival in Marken, visitors have the opportunity to explore the traditional architecture, observe the local lifestyle, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s maritime heritage.

This boat tour serves as a seamless transition between the diverse experiences that make up the day’s itinerary.

Clog-Making Demonstration

The day trip includes a captivating clog-making demonstration, where visitors witness the time-honored craft of crafting traditional Dutch wooden shoes.

The experienced artisan showcases the intricate process, from selecting the proper wood to carving and shaping the clogs. Participants are enthralled as they observe:

1. The skilled woodworker expertly wielding hand tools to transform a block of wood into a functional and beautifully designed clog.

2. The use of an antique steam engine, which powers the machinery that aids in the shaping and finishing of the wooden shoes.

3. The artisan’s passion and attention to detail, ensuring each clog meets the high standards of Dutch craftsmanship.

Marker Home Visit

One of the highlights of the day trip is the visit to an authentic Marker home from the 1940s.

Travelers can step back in time and experience what life was like in this traditional Dutch fishing village. The cozy interior showcases the simple, functional furnishings and décor typical of the era.

Visitors will learn about the daily routines and customs of Marker residents. The home provides a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage and the lives of its people.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate the enduring traditions and way of life that have been preserved in Marken.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

How does the tour handle the logistics and accessibility?

The tour is provided by REMAZ TOURS GmbH and offers transportation via a luxurious air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi.

Pickup is at the Amsterdam Central Station, and the tour starts at 12:00 PM.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate, though the itinerary involves significant walking (5-6 miles) and stairs.

The tour features:

1. Pickup at a central location in Amsterdam.
2. Air-conditioned bus transportation with free Wi-Fi.
3. Itinerary with considerable walking and stairs, making it inaccessible for some travelers.

The Final Verdict

The "Zaanse Schans, Marken, Edam & Volendam – Day Trip" offers a captivating exploration of Dutch culture and heritage. Travelers can experience traditional windmills, cheese-making, a scenic boat ride, and demonstrations of local crafts, providing an immersive look into the Netherlands’ unique history. With a well-planned itinerary and accessible logistics, this tour is an excellent way to discover the charm and authenticity of these picturesque Dutch towns.