A CULTURAL SYMBOL
Going to Amsterdam? Don’t miss seeing the windmills at Schermerhorn, because you can’t go to The Netherlands without visiting an iconic Dutch windmill. Arguably the country’s most famous tourist attractions, windmills have shaped the cultural heritage over centuries, and now are a national symbol.
I was keen to go and see some real authentic, working windmills, so I jumped at the chance to go on an excursion off the beaten path, out to the scenic farmlands of Schermerhorn, located not too far away from Amsterdam, a perfect day trip.
Tour To Schermerhorn
Schermerhorn is a quaint village located about 30 mins drive by bus from the city. I went with a tour group by coach and a local guide who was very knowledgable in the area and its history.
The tour bus departed from Amsterdam to the historic windmills at Schermerhorn, a marvellous site where 3 of the original 52 working mills from the 1700’s are located in the picturesque, serene countryside of North Holland Province.
These structures were important in the country’s development of new land and management of water, and still function today.
Amongst canals and flat green fields these famous working monuments stand in the same original location where they pumped water out of the then Schermer Lake to create land which became the village and farms.
The windmills are very well preserved and popular tourist attractions as traditional symbols of The Netherlands.
Schermerhorn windmills are not as crowded as other larger, more popular sites, such as Zaanse Schans.
Schermerhorn Windmill Museum
We visited the Schermerhorn Windmill Museum, which is an authentic functioning windmill and also a museum, all in one.
First, we watched an informative video of the town’s history and how the reclaiming of land was achieved using many windmills to pump the water out of the flood terrain and turning it into fertile land.
The Miller’s Life
Then we entered one of the real working windmills here. They are octagonal structures with a thatched roof.
Inside we viewed the small living quarters downstairs, which gave us a glimpse into the conditions of the miller’s home where he lived with his whole family, often with many children.
The life of a miller and his family was very harsh, managing the workings of the mill 7 days a week.
Living inside the windmill was difficult as well, dealing with drafts, moisture, a lack of insulation and no proper kitchen or toilet. They slept in small traditional box beds built into the walls, sitting up and cramped. I doubt it would have been comfortable.
Other Things To See
Afterwards we climbed up the steep ladder-like stairs inside to see the interior mechanics of the windmill at the top. It was interesting to see the internal structure and workings, and we could hear the creaking of gears as the outside arms/sails turned. Up here we had views of the surrounding countryside.
Later, we explored the big barn which housed all the equipment and horse carriages used by millers.
Outside there was a giant Archimedean screw six metres long used to pump the water into the canals, powered by the windmill. Previously paddle wheels would have served the purpose.
Final Words
Visiting the windmills at Schermerhorn was a wonderfully unique experience and a fascinating insight into Dutch history and the importance of windmills in their life.
It was a gorgeous, tranquil location and quite an interesting trip, an absolute must for first time visitors to the country.
The whole area is perfect for photo opportunities, with wooden bridges, waterways and lush green farmlands surrounding the picturesque windmills, quintessential Dutch scenery.
Schermerhorn Windmill Museum is not too crowded, compared to other windmill tourist sites such as Zaanse Schans, which attracts a lot of people.
Tips For Visiting Schermerhorn
- Check the website before visiting.
- Open daily during April to October, closed rest of the year but groups can visit with a reservation.
- Purchase tickets at the venue or online.
- Easy to get to with a tour bus, public bus or rental car, from Amsterdam. Some choose cycling from nearby towns.
- Easy parking.
- Perfect for families with children.
- Picnic tables available.
- Allow at least one hour at the site.
- The Visitor Centre sells refreshments and souvenirs including authentic clogs and local produce.
- You can follow with a visit to the main nearby city of Alkmaar.
- Use Viator or Get Your Guide to book tours.
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