eel mill route

The Waterland region is a flat region with a beautiful openness, which is ideal for a bike ride. The low-lying peat meadow area, intersected with many ditches and canals, is protected against the encroaching water by the Waterlandse Zeedijk. Low quays were built as early as the twelfth century and were gradually raised. In the twelfth and thirteenth century, there were major floods, which created the Zuiderzee and the Beemster, among other things. Although dikes were built, Waterland always remained wet and soggy and the farmers mainly focused on cattle breeding. Due to the daily production of dairy and the lack of a good stock of grain, a healthy trade was created in Edam, Monnickendam and Purmerend. Frequently heard dialects in Waterland are Volendams and Markens.

Enjoy a beautiful panorama with the silhouettes of the windmills of the Zaanse Schans. In addition to the many windmills, there are also other special things to see. How about a clog factory, a shipyard or a bakery museum? If you want to know more about this special neighborhood in Zaandam, you can visit De Zaanse Schans/Visitor Center Vrede.