Historical hotspots in the Zaan region

A day of cycling through the North Holland Zaan region. That means enjoying water-rich polders and picturesque centuries-old villages.

Zaanse forts
The route starts just outside West-Graftdijk. You drive a few kilometers along the Markervaart, a beautiful path where you pass, among other things, the former Fort Marken-Binnen, which was completed in 1905. Further on you will see the Wormer and Jisperveld, a vast nature reserve consisting of low peat, to the right of the cycle path. You can make a stop at Boerderijwinkel Noord Hollands Hof. A nice place to stock up on something tasty for a picnic along the way! A little later you pass Fort Spijkerboor.

The ripe
You cycle along the Beemsterringvaart to De Rijp, a truly beautiful village that you should actually only walk through. Here you will see, among other things, the Town Hall from 1630. A visit to Museum In't Houten Huis is definitely worthwhile. Don't put your camera away immediately, because there are also some beautiful centuries-old buildings in the former port of Graft and Noordeinde. There is so much cultural history to experience here!