The Senior Countryside Windmill Private Guided Tour offers older adults a unique opportunity to enjoy the picturesque Dutch countryside. This 6-hour excursion from Amsterdam promises a comfortable, accessible journey through historical sites, charming villages, and stunning natural scenery. Participants will discover the rich heritage and cultural treasures that make the Netherlands’ rural landscapes so captivating. From the iconic Schermer Museum Mill to the UNESCO-listed Beemster region, this tour caters to the needs of senior travelers while unveiling the timeless beauty of the Dutch countryside. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a leisurely day trip, this private guided tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Good To Know
Key Points:
- The 6-hour private guided tour provides pickup and drop-off in Amsterdam, Alkmaar, and Zaandam, catering to seniors and those with mobility issues.
- The tour includes visits to the Schermer Museum Mill, historic fishing village of De Rijp, UNESCO World Heritage site Beemster, and the picturesque town of Broek in Waterland.
- Amenities such as air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and complimentary water are included, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
- Participants can learn about the engineering feats and historical significance of the Dutch windmills, as well as the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for the customers.
Tour Overview
This senior countryside windmill private guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical and picturesque windmills nestled within the Dutch countryside.
Priced from $272.34 per person, the 6-hour tour promises an immersive experience, available in Dutch and English.
Pickup and drop-off locations include Amsterdam, Alkmaar, and Zaandam, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary highlights visits to the Museum Mill, the historic fishing village of De Rijp, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Beemster, and the charming town of Broek in Waterland.
With air-conditioned private transportation, entrance fees, and water provided, this tour caters to seniors and those with mobility concerns, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Like guided experiences? More Amsterdam tours with local guides
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 9:30 AM pickup from the hotel, setting off on a journey to explore the captivating countryside.
First, visitors will step back in time at the Museum Mill, learning about the 52 mills that drained Lake Schermer in the 17th century.
Next, the historic fishing village of De Rijp is discovered, known for its herring fleet and hydraulic engineer Jan Adriaanzoon Leeghwater.
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Beemster follows, showcasing the planned roads, plots, and canals across the reclaimed land.
A cheese tasting at Henry Willig’s shop in Edam and a scenic stroll through picturesque Broek in Waterland round out this immersive experience before returning to the hotel by 3:00 PM.
Transportation and Amenities
To ensure a comfortable and convenient experience, the tour includes air-conditioned, private transportation throughout the day.
Pickup is provided from your hotel, so you’ll just need to wait in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The tour also includes entrance fees for the windmill visit, parking fees, and a complimentary bottle of water to keep you hydrated.
As this tour is designed for seniors and individuals with mobility issues, there’s minimal walking involved, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.
Schermer Museum Mill
Visitors begin their journey at the Schermer Museum Mill, where they learn about the remarkable history of the 52 windmills that drained Lake Schermer in the 17th century.
The tour guide provides insightful information about the engineering feats and the impact these mills had on the region’s landscape. Guests explore the interior of the museum mill, witnessing firsthand the intricate mechanics that once powered the drainage process.
This stop offers a glimpse into the innovative spirit and determination of the Dutch people who transformed the once-flooded land into fertile farmland.
The visit to the Schermer Museum Mill sets the stage for the rest of the captivating countryside tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyHistoric Village of De Rijp
From De Rijp, the tour continues to explore this historic fishing village, known for its herring fleet and the accomplishments of hydraulic engineer Jan Adriaanzoon Leeghwater.
Visitors can stroll through the charming streets lined with well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings.
The village’s history is deeply intertwined with the nearby waterways, as Leeghwater’s innovative engineering projects helped shape the surrounding landscape.
Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the village’s maritime heritage and the enduring legacy of its influential residents during this stop on the guided tour.
Prefer private tours? More Amsterdam exclusive experiences we've written about
UNESCO World Heritage Beemster
The UNESCO World Heritage Beemster is the next stop on the guided tour. Visitors will observe the carefully planned roads, plots, and canals across the reclaimed land. Established in the 17th century, the Beemster polder showcases the Dutch ingenuity in land reclamation and hydraulic engineering.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Land Area | 7,000 hectares |
Water Management | 43 drainage mills and an extensive system of canals |
Architecture | Distinctive farms, villages, and roads laid out in a grid pattern |
Recognition | Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 |
The tour provides an opportunity to explore this unique landscape and appreciate the Dutch mastery of water management.
Edam Cheese Tasting
A highlight of the tour is the cheese tasting at Henry Willig’s shop in the historic town of Edam. Theres some good Gouda and Edam cheeses from one of the top 10 cheesemakers globally, featuring 30 unique flavors.
The shop is renowned for its exceptional cheese selection, showcasing the best of the region’s dairy heritage. After the tasting, visitors can stroll through the old town center, admiring the charming 17th-century architecture and soaking in the quaint atmosphere.
This cheese experience perfectly complements the tour’s focus on preserving traditional Dutch countryside life and craftsmanship.
Picturesque Broek in Waterland
Towards the end of the tour, guests are treated to a scenic stroll through the picturesque village of Broek in Waterland.
This 16th-century settlement is renowned for its well-preserved wooden houses and charming 16th-century church. As visitors wander the serene streets, they’ll be captivated by the tranquil waterways and quaint bridges that define the village’s character.
The tour provides an opportunity to soak in the peaceful ambiance and appreciate the authentic Dutch rural charm that Broek in Waterland exudes.
This leisurely walk through the village serves as a delightful conclusion to the day’s exploration of the Dutch countryside and its historic windmills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for children under 7 years of age. The tour is designed for seniors and individuals with mobility issues, with minimal walking involved.
What Is the Tour’s Cancellation Policy?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows customers to reserve their spot without immediate payment and cancel if their plans change.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary doesn’t appear to be customizable. The private guided tour has a preset itinerary that includes visiting specific locations and attractions. Travelers can’t modify the tour’s schedule or activities.
How Do I Reserve My Spot for This Tour?
To reserve your spot, you can book online without immediate payment. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility in your plans.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Customers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a 1-hour lunch break at a local restaurant is included as an optional extra, for an additional fee.
The Sum Up
The Senior Countryside Windmill Private Guided Tour offers an immersive experience in the Dutch countryside. With comfortable transportation, minimal walking, and a focus on accessibility, the tour showcases the region’s rich heritage and picturesque landscapes. From the Schermer Museum Mill to the UNESCO World Heritage Beemster, participants can indulge in a delightful Edam cheese tasting while exploring charming villages like De Rijp and Broek in Waterland.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Guided Tours in Amsterdam
- Visit Amsterdam by Boat with a French Guide (french)
- Private Red Light Tour City Center with Beer Maid Guide
- Private Bar Tour with Bar Maid Guide Amsterdam Red Light
- Rotterdam Center: Cocktail Bar Walking Tour – Self Guided
- Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket & Guided Tour
- Amsterdam:Old City Canal Cruise with Live Guide and Open Bar
More Tours in Amsterdam
More Tour Reviews in Amsterdam
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam with Ferry to Marken
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip
- Zaanse Schans: E-bike day trip: Windmills, Cheese and Nature
- Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip with Cruise
- Visit Amsterdam by Boat with a French Guide (french)
- Tour of the historical center of Amsterdam in Italian
Looking for something different? Other Amsterdam activities we've written about
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam with Ferry to Marken
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip
- Zaanse Schans: E-bike day trip: Windmills, Cheese and Nature
- Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip with Cruise
- Visit Amsterdam by Boat with a French Guide (french)
- Tour of the historical center of Amsterdam in Italian
- Tour of the Red Quarter Amsterdam
- Tour Amsterdam: Old Town, Jewish Quarter and Flower Market
- Romantic Photoshoot Experience for Couples in Amsterdam
- Rent a bike in Amsterdam | 1, 2, 3+ hours
- Private Red Light Tour City Center with Beer Maid Guide
- Private Rijksmuseum Tour