Schermerhorn

We start this very special tour in Schermerhorn. During the Dutch Golden Age, this low-lying area was drained by 52 windmills. Today, the museum mill of Schermerhorn is one of the few that remain—and it’s also one of the most beautiful and best-preserved traditional mills in the country. Nestled in the charming North Holland countryside, this historic mill invites you to experience life as it was for the millers who helped shape the landscape. You can explore the mill from top to bottom, admire its inner workings, and see how Dutch craftsmanship and engineering kept the land dry for generations. A visit here is a must for anyone seeking an authentic and immersive Dutch experience. Though less well-known than, for example, the Zaanse Schans, it is just as impressive!

De Rijp

We continue to De Rijp, where our guide takes you on a wonderful village walk. Once a thriving hub of trade and whaling during the Dutch Golden Age, De Rijp’s rich history is beautifully preserved in its canals and 17th-century gabled houses, which reflect its prosperous past. The density of historic monuments in this tiny village is truly impressive. The Town Hall (Raadhuis), built in 1630, is an architectural masterpiece, and the old white bridges over the water complete the picture. De Rijp is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in the country—and we wholeheartedly agree. Lunch is also in this beautiful village.