The Alkmaardermeer from a tea garden

Of course, a tea garden as a starting and ending point is never gone. Add to that a beautiful environment such as the Alkmaardermeer and you have the recipe for a wonderful day out.

The Alkmaardermeer
North Holland was once nothing more than a large patchwork of swamps and peat bogs. Much of the peat has been excavated for centuries for peat extraction. It resulted in even more puddles and waterways. Most of that swampy land has been drained with mills, but some lakes have been allowed to continue to ripple. Such as the Alkmaardermeer. Many water sports are practiced. From a bench you can take a leisurely look at all those pleasure boats and surfers.

West Knollendam
You drive through a landscape of neatly divided polders and vast peat meadow areas. You can still see windmills here, just like those typical long plots, lush reed strips and of course the Dutch skies. This varied route leads you past another typical Dutch picture: the Beemster with its historic villages. You will pass through Middenbeemster, the oldest village in this polder. The route ends at the cozy Theetuin Spierenburgh.