Tour of Waterland from Oostzaan

A wonderful tour through the polder. The low-lying peat meadow area, intersected with many ditches and canals, is protected against the invading water by the Waterlandse Zeedijk. Low quays were built from the twelfth century onwards and were gradually raised. Despite the dike, Waterland remained a wet and swampy area. Trade was mainly conducted on the markets, with dairy products. Frequently heard dialects in Waterland are Volendam and Markens. Along the way you will pass through Monnickendam, a nice place to cycle through! This city has many monuments, of which the Speeltoren is the best known. This historic town hall tower has the oldest hand-playable carillon in the Netherlands. In Purmerend you can stop at De Jongh Fietsspecialist, where you will find a nice range of bicycles and accessories.