Private Full Day Trip to Giethoorn, Windmills and Volendam from Amsterdam
The elongated village Giethoorn is located in one of the largest areas of the Nature Association for, NP “De Wieden “. Along with the “Weerribben” it constitutes the largest continuous fenland NP areas in northern Europe.Way back in time peat diggers took peat from the soil, leaving it to dry and later cut peat. In two large floods (1776 and 1825) this vulnerable drying banks were washed away and lakes arose around Giethoorn.To transport the peat they dug ditches and canals that resulted in the typical village structure of Giethoorn. The traditional transportation for Giethoorn is the handmade wooden ”Gieterse Punter”. (A small sailing barge) Today there is also the ‘whisper’ boat. An easy to use, environment-friendly, noiseless electric version.
Furthermore Giethoorn is an excellent starting point for canoe trips through the area. Another possibility to appreciate Giethoorn from the water; a trip by (covered) boat. The village offers a number of special museums. And for a varying range of art, you are welcome in the various Giethoorn (art) galleries and see craftsmen at work.
The Zaanse Schans is a residential area in which the 18th and 19th centuries are brought to life. Stroll past the bakery museum and enjoy the smell of fresh bread, or take a look at the warehouse where clogs are made. You should be sure not to miss the cheese factory, pewter foundry and the various windmills. The Zaanse Schans is a unique part of the Netherlands, full of wooden houses, mills, barns and workshops. Make a cycling or sailing trip, browse the shops or treat yourself at the pancake restaurant. A day out at the Zaanse Schans in North Holland is fun and educational.
After the windmills we will visit Volendam, a small fishing village with 22000 citizens. Walk along the beautiful harbour with their typical Volendam shops and lunch at on of the best seafood restaurants in Holland where they still smoke their own eels. As last you can make a boat trip with the Volendam-Marken Express. For over 80 years the Volendam-Marken Express operates a ferry service between Volendam and Marken. The boats sail all year round, except when the lake is frozen. Every year thousands of travelers use the ferry to enjoy a relaxed trip on the water and to visit the historic towns and harbours of Volendam and Marken. The Volendam-Marken Express is much more than an ideal form of transport between the folklore of the old fishing village of Volendam and the still authentic Dutch village of Marken, it also gives a unique insight into the history of the former Zuiderzee.