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 settle down on the terrace of Bij Ernst to start the day with a cup of coffee. Then you set course from here to Grootschermer through the Eilandspolder. In this water-rich meadow landscape you can spot all kinds of protected bird species such as the curlew, black-tailed godwit, lapwing, spoonbill and reed warbler. In the dike village of Grootschermer you can take a look at the Museum and Sculpture Garden Nic Jonk. You can also enjoy a snack and a drink at Café-Restaurant het Genot van Grootschermer.

The Schermer Polder
On the way from Grootschermer to Driehuizen and Noordeinde you can look out over the De Schermer polder, the last large polder 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. Here, history is there for the taking. Admire beautiful buildings from times long past, such as historic town halls, or take a look in the smallest shop in Graft for some old Dutch candy. It's like going back in time.

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