Herring & Hemp walking route

The Eilandspolder
The starting point of this route is on the edge of the village of De Rijp and the hamlet of Klaterbuurt. Here you can sit on the terrace of Bij Ernst to start the day with a cup of coffee. From here you then set course for Grootschermer through the Eilandspolder. In this watery meadow landscape you can spot all kinds of protected bird species such as the curlew, black-tailed godwit, lapwing, spoonbill and sedge warbler. In the dike village of Grootschermer you can take a look at the Nic Jonk Museum and Sculpture Garden. You can also enjoy a snack and a drink at Café-Restaurant het Genot van Grootschermer.

Droogmakerij De Schermer
On the way from Grootschermer to Driehuizen and Noordeinde you can look out over the De Schermer reclaimed land, the last large reclaimed land in North Holland. From Noordeinde you walk through Graft, which was once prosperous due to the fishing of herring and the cultivation of hemp, and De Rijp back to the starting point of the route.

Back in time

During your walk, make time to stroll through the lovely villages you pass. History is there for the taking. Admire beautiful buildings from times gone by such as historic town halls or take a look at the smallest shop in Graft for some old Dutch sweets. Just like going back in time.

Please note: this route is not accessible during the breeding season from March 15 to June 15.