The Best Places to See Windmills in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is known for its windmills, which have become the ultimate symbols of Dutch engineering and history. These fabulous monsters once played a very vital role in water management and milling; today, they are landmarks preserved for tourists so that they understand the richness of the country’s cultural legacy. For lovers of history, and nature, and enthusiastic photography lovers, the Netherlands can offer much in the many different types of windmills that exist. This will be a single point-of-reference guide to outline some of the best places to see windmills across the country, each location offering a different mix of history, charm, and natural beauty.
1. Kinderdijk – UNESCO World Heritage Site
In South Holland, Kinderdijk boasts of the most renowned group of windmills in the world. With 19 beautifully well-preserved 18th-century windmills, this is one of those UNESCO World Heritage Sites that really must be beheld if there is ever to be any first-hand insight into a bit of Dutch history. The windmills were used for controlling water levels to prevent floodings; thus, Kinderdijk can be called a tribute to Dutch ingenuity.
What to Expect
Historic Windmills: Explore the interiors of some windmills, which have been converted into museums.
Scenic Bike Routes: Ride through the serene Dutch countryside along canals.
Boat Tours: Get a closer view of the windmills from the water.
2. Zaanse Schans – A Living Open-Air Museum
Zaanse Schans, located near Amsterdam, offers a glimpse into the Netherlands’ industrial past. This open-air museum features fully functional windmills, houses, and workshops that demonstrate traditional Dutch craftsmanship. You can watch windmills in action, grinding spices, sawing wood, or producing oil.
What to Expect
Interactive Experiences: Step inside working windmills and witness the machinery in motion.
Traditional Dutch Crafts: Learn about wooden clog making, cheese production, and more.
Picturesque Views: Enjoy the quintessential Dutch landscape with windmills, water, and greenery.
3. Schiedam – The Tallest Windmills in the World
Schiedam, a small town near Rotterdam, boasts the tallest traditional windmills in the world, known as the “Giant Windmills.” These towering structures were once used to produce gin, a major industry in the region. Today, they stand as an impressive reminder of Schiedam’s industrial heritage.
What to Expect
Gin Distilleries: Visit nearby distilleries to learn about the history of Dutch gin.
Panoramic Views: Climb the windmills for stunning views over the town and surrounding countryside.
Historical Tours: Take a guided tour to understand the significance of Schiedam’s windmills in Dutch commerce.
4. Molen de Valk – Leiden’s Iconic Windmill
Molen de Valk, a towering windmill in the heart of Leiden, is a beloved city landmark. Built-in 1743, this windmill now serves as a museum, offering visitors an insight into traditional milling techniques and the windmill’s role in local history.
What to Expect
Windmill Museum: Explore the museum inside the windmill, showcasing historical artifacts and tools.
City Views: Climb to the top of the windmill for panoramic views of Leiden.
Cultural Events: Attend special events and exhibitions hosted at Molen de Valk throughout the year.
5. De Gooyer Windmill – Amsterdam’s Urban Icon
De Gooyer, one of the last remaining windmills in Amsterdam, is an urban landmark that dates back to the 16th century. Although it no longer functions as a mill, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially with the Brouwerij ‘t IJ brewery located next door.
What to Expect
Brewery Experience: Enjoy locally brewed beers while admiring the historic windmill.
Photographic Opportunities: De Gooyer is one of the most photographed windmills in the city.
Nearby Attractions: Explore the surrounding area, which includes parks and markets.
6. The Windmills of Heusden
Heusden is a charming fortified town with a rich history, featuring several well-preserved windmills. The town’s windmills are part of its medieval fortifications, and today, they stand as beautiful remnants of the town’s past.
What to Expect
Restored Windmills: Some windmills have been restored to working condition and are open to visitors.
Historic Town: Wander through the cobbled streets and enjoy the medieval architecture.
Boat Tours: Take a boat ride around the fortifications to see the windmills from the water.
7. De Rat – A Traditional Sawmill in IJlst
Located in the small Frisian town of IJlst, De Rat is a traditional wind-powered sawmill that is still in operation. This windmill dates back to the 17th century and is one of the few remaining sawmills in the Netherlands.
What to Expect
Working Sawmill: Watch the windmill in action as it saws timber.
Local Craftsmanship: Learn about the role of windmills in the timber industry.
Guided Tours: Take a tour to understand the engineering behind this fascinating structure.
8. The Windmills of Haarlem
Haarlem is home to several historic windmills, the most famous being Molen de Adriaan. This windmill, originally built in 1779, was rebuilt after a fire in 1932 and now serves as a museum.
What to Expect
Historical Exhibits: Learn about the history of windmills and their importance to the Dutch economy.
Scenic River Views: The windmill is located on the banks of the Spaarne River, offering beautiful views of the water and city.
Cultural Significance: Discover Haarlem’s rich history through the lens of its windmills.
9. De Ster and De Lelie – Tobacco Mills of Rotterdam
De Ster and De Lelie are two windmills located in Rotterdam that were once used for processing tobacco. These unique windmills offer a rare glimpse into the Dutch tobacco industry.
What to Expect
Restored Windmills: Both windmills have been restored and are open to the public.
Industry Insights: Learn about the history of tobacco processing in the Netherlands.
Interactive Tours: Engage with guides who provide detailed explanations of how the windmills operate.
10. Molen De Vriendschap – A Hidden Gem in Weesp
Molen De Vriendschap is a charming windmill located in the small town of Weesp, near Amsterdam. This hidden gem is often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful spot to explore the Dutch countryside.
What to Expect
Quiet Atmosphere: Enjoy the tranquility of the countryside while visiting this picturesque windmill.
Guided Tours: Learn about the history and function of Molen De Vriendschap from knowledgeable guides.
Local Attractions: Combine your visit with a stroll through the historic town of Weesp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time of year is best to visit the windmills in the Netherlands?
The best time to visit windmills in the Netherlands falls in the spring and summer seasons of the year, from April to September when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush with greenery. Many events and festivals will be part of a windmill during this time.
Are the windmills at Kinderdijk free to visit?
You can see these windmills that outline the outside area for free; nevertheless, most of these locations will ask for some entrance fee to gain access inside a windmill for a view or take a boat trip.
Can I visit here on a bike tour?
Yes, most of the windmill locations, including Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans, have biking routes around them that allow people to enjoy the windmills and the countryside on two wheels.
How many windmills are there in the Netherlands?
More than 1,000 windmills dot the Dutch landscape today, many of them open to the public and still working. Still celebrates National Windmill Day (Molendag) in May, when most of the country’s windmills open their doors to visitors and hold special events.
