Welcome to my travel blog about the Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands, a charming place steeped in history and traditional Dutch culture. Situated on the banks of the picturesque river Zaan, the Zaanse Schans offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past and a relaxed escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
History
The Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum established in the 1960s in an attempt to preserve traditional Dutch crafts and architecture. The area houses a collection of well-preserved historic dutch windmills, wooden houses, and workshops, which were once characteristic of the Dutch countryside in the 18th and 19th centuries. This place provides a glimpse of the industrial heritage of the Netherlands and offers a fascinating look into the past.
Traditional Dutch Activities
As you wander through the narrow paths of the Zaanse Schans, you can admire the various windmills. The mills were once used for grinding spices, sawing wood, and other artisanal tasks. Some windmills are still operational and offer tours where you can learn more about their operation and history.
In addition to the windmills, there are also traditional Dutch houses and shops to explore. Some have been converted into museums that highlight various aspects of Dutch life in the past, such as cheese making, wooden clog crafting, and the production of Delft blue pottery.
Stroopwafels and Pancakes
During your visit to the Zaanse Schans, you can enjoy delicious Dutch treats at local eateries. Be sure to try a warm stroopwafel freshly baked at one of the stalls, or indulge in a savory pancake served with syrup or powdered sugar. For a more substantial meal, there are also restaurants in the area serving traditional Dutch dishes such as stamppot, pea soup, and herring.
How to get to the Zaanse Schans
The Zaanse Schans is easily accessible from Amsterdam and other nearby cities by public transportation or by car. There is ample parking available for visitors arriving by car. The windmills are also easily reachable by train. From Amsterdam Central Station, it’s a 17-minute train ride to Zaandam station, followed by a 15-minute walk. The area is open year-round, but the opening hours of individual windmills and museums may vary, so it’s advisable to check the website for current information in advance.
Zaanse Schans with the Camper
There are several options for visiting the Zaanse Schans with a camper. We chose to park our camper for free at the station. You can also find a lovely camping site near the mills in the middle of the polder, called Camping Swarthoeve. If you want to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Zaan for several days, this campsite is definitely worth considering.
In conclusion, a visit to the Zaanse Schans is a journey back in time to the Netherlands of yesteryear. Whether you’re interested in history, crafts, or simply want to soak in the atmosphere of an idyllic Dutch village, the Zaanse Schans has something for everyone.
If you want to find more inspiration for your journey to the Netherlands, take a look here!