Here's your 5-day Dutch windmill cycling tour guide
What's the story
Explore the rich heritage of Holland with a five-day cycling tour across its iconic windmills.
The journey will take you deep into the Netherlands' historical and cultural landscape, giving you a chance to see the beauty of traditional windmills up close.
Pedaling through picturesque countryside and charming villages, you'll learn about Dutch engineering marvels and their role in shaping the nation's history.
Start point
Day 1: Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans
Start your tour in Amsterdam, cycling towards Zaanse Schans. This region is famous for its well-preserved historic windmills and houses.
The route takes you through scenic paths along the canals and lush greenery.
At Zaanse Schans, visit working windmills that showcase the traditional crafts of wood sawing, oil pressing, etc.
This day sets the tone for understanding how these structures contributed to local industries.
Cheese stop
Day 2: Alkmaar's cheese market
On day two, cycle from Zaanse Schans to Alkmaar, which is renowned for its cheese market. The journey gives a perfect mixture of rural scenery and small towns.
In Alkmaar, check out the colorful cheese market where traders still weigh cheese in the traditional way.
Although not exactly related to windmills, this stop gives you a glimpse of another side of Dutch culture, which flourished alongside these iconic structures.
Maritime route
Day 3: Enkhuizen's maritime heritage
Pedal from Alkmaar to Enkhuizen on day three, taking routes that cling to the coastline of the IJsselmeer Lake.
Enkhuizen is rich in maritime history, with its Zuiderzee Museum depicting life around this former inland sea.
While this stop is mainly maritime heritage-focused, it further expands your understanding of how water management (often with the help of windmills) was vital for Dutch prosperity.
Iconic windmills
Day 4: Kinderdijk's UNESCO site
Day four takes you to Kinderdijk from Enkhuizen—a UNESCO World Heritage site with 19 well-preserved windmills dating back to the 18th century.
These are the quintessential examples of water management systems used all over Holland's history.
Cycling through Kinderdijk gives visitors an unparalleled view into how these engineering feats helped avoid flooding in low-lying areas.
Final stretch
Day 5: Rotterdam's modern architecture
Conclude your tour by cycling towards Rotterdam, the city famous for its modern architecture.
The city beautifully blends history and urban development projects, like Cube Houses and Erasmus Bridge.
It exudes contemporary design ethos while giving a nod to what was before.
This final stop completes your journey successfully, celebrating the nation's enduring spirit and ingenuity, and inviting you to look forward to future possibilities.