Day trip
Private Day Trip to Zaanse Schans Windmills and the Enclosing Dam
Learn from an expert guide about two of the greatest achievements in the history of the Netherlands: the Zaanse Schans mills and the Great Dyke, the ‘Afsluitdijk’.
Quick details:
- Destination: Zaanse Schans
- Duration: 5 Hrs
- Kind of Tour: Private tour
- Meeting point: We pick you up at your hotel in Amsterdam
- Time: Departures from 09:00 to 12:00 every hour
From
595€
"God created the world, the Dutch created the Netherlands"
If you have read something about the Netherlands, you already know that it is not really a normal country, right? Part of its territory is below sea level and its history has always been marked by an eternal battle against its worst enemy: water. We propose that you join us and come see two of the most important elements of this country that have made it as we know it today. Yes! This tour will take you by the mills and dykes of the Netherlands.
Learn from an expert guide about two of the greatest achievements in the history of the Netherlands: the Zaanse Schans mills and the Great Dyke (the ‘Afsluitdijk’).
We will start by heading to the Zaanse Schans windmill park, the country’s economic engine between the 16th and 18th century, as the Dutch took advantage of the force of the wind to grind the spices they brought from the colonies to make oils, mustards, etc. We will enter a mill dedicated to grind spices and visit a clog workshop, where we will demonstrate the traditional Dutch shoemaking.
Next, we will head towards the Great Dyke, which connects the provinces of North Holland and Friesland and which closed off the South Sea forever, making it one of the largest lakes in Europe. It is the most important dyke in the country, over 30 kilometers long, which prevents flooding because of the tides of the North Sea.
As it is a private tour, you can enjoy and take your time to take photos or buy some souvenirs. The exact itinerary can be agreed upon at the beginning of the tour to fit the groups’ wishes, within the limits of the maximum duration of the tour.
- Specialized (and very nice) guide
- Transportation by private vehicle
- Entrance to an original windmill
- Live demonstration of clog making
Must cancel or change 48 hours before of the departure
1. What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Some windmills are indoors, and we adjust the visit according to the weather.
2. Is lunch included during the tour?
Lunch is not included. You can stop at a local restaurant or café near the windmills or along the Enclosing Dam — your guide will recommend great options.
3. How many people are in each group?
This is a private tour for your group only, with a personal guide and private transport.
4. Are the tours suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s perfect for families. Kids love exploring the windmills and learning about Dutch engineering at the dam.
5. What’s included in the tour price?
Private transportation, English-speaking guide, and visits to Zaanse Schans and the Enclosing Dam. Meals and personal expenses are not included.
01.
Zaanse Schans
Can you imagine what it was like to live in the Netherlands during the 17th and 18th century? Well, when you visit the Zaanse Schans it will become much easier to imagine. Its wooden houses and emblematic windmills are a journey through time!
02.
The Great Dyke
Three words: close a sea. It sounds easy, right? Well that’s exactly what the Dutch did in just 6 years in the early s. XX. Since then, a 32 km dyke closes what was formerly known as the South Sea, giving way to one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.
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