Non touristic Private Sightseeing Countryside Windmill Tour

A Genuine Look at the Non-Touristic Private Countryside Windmill Tour

If you’re seeking a way to escape the crowds and see the Netherlands in its quieter, most authentic form, this private countryside windmill tour offers a fresh perspective. Led by the engaging Windmill Girls, two passionate local guides who grew up among the windmills, this six-hour journey takes you through picturesque villages, historic windmills, and lush green polder landscapes. It’s a chance to experience Holland’s timeless charm beyond the usual tourist spots, with a focus on genuine local life and heritage.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it combines storytelling with scenic beauty. The guides’ personal insights make the history come alive — especially during stops in lesser-visited villages like De Rijp and Broek in Waterland. The visit to a 17th-century windmill responsible for land reclamation is fascinating, providing a tangible link to the country’s ongoing battle with water. Also, the cheese farm tasting, with 30 Gouda flavors, is a highlight for anyone who loves Dutch culinary traditions.

A potential consideration is that this tour is quite full, at around six hours, and involves some driving through rural areas that might be less accessible if you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced experience. Also, it’s a premium experience costing around $400 per person, which might seem steep for those on a tight budget. Nevertheless, the value lies in the personalized, off-the-beaten-path encounters that a larger group or bus tour can’t provide.

This tour stands out for its combination of expert local guides, authentic sights, and the opportunity to see parts of the Dutch countryside rarely crowded with travelers. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and local flavors.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Custom private experience: Only your group participates, making it intimate and flexible.
• Expert guides: The Windmill Girls are passionate locals who share engaging stories and insider tips.
• Authentic rural views: Visit lesser-known villages like De Rijp and Broek, away from tourist crowds.
• Historical insights: Tour a 17th-century windmill that played a role in land reclamation.
• Gourmet cheese tasting: Sample Gouda and Edam in 30 flavors at Henri Willig’s cheese farm.
• Flexible lunch options: Your guides can recommend local spots tailored to your preferences.

Exploring the Dutch Countryside Through the Eyes of the Windmill Girls

This tour offers a rare peek into the heart of Holland’s rural landscape—a breath of fresh air away from the busy city streets of Amsterdam. From the moment I learned that the guides, known as the Windmill Girls, grew up among these iconic structures, I knew I was in for a special treat. Their personal stories and enthusiasm make the experience more vivid and meaningful.

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Amsterdam, ensuring a smooth start. This convenience means you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics, especially since the tour includes private transport, parking fees, and bottled water — all part of the package. The vehicle is comfortable and suited for navigating narrow country roads and dikes, which are an integral part of the landscape.

Visiting the Museum Mill in Schermer

One highlight is the stop at the Museum Mill in Schermer, which is not only a fully operational 17th-century windmill but also a piece of Dutch water management innovation. The Schermerpolder, drained by 52 mills in the 17th century, transformed the landscape dramatically. Seeing the mill from top to bottom, you’ll understand how it functions and how wind power replaced floods and high water levels. The guides do a fantastic job explaining how these mills were vital to reclaiming land from lakes and marshes — a story that’s deeply woven into the Dutch identity.

Passing Through the Schermer Polder and Small Villages

Driving along the dikes through the restored land of the Schermer gives you a sense of the scale and complexity of Dutch water engineering. Passing by Esther’s family windmill, you get a glimpse of rural life that’s far removed from tourist-centric spots. This part of the tour is perfect for those who enjoy quiet, authentic scenery and want to see how land was literally created from water.

The Charm of De Rijp and Beemster

De Rijp is a real gem—once a bustling fishing village, now a peaceful place with narrow streets and historic houses. It’s notable for its connection to Jan Adriaanzoon Leeghwater, a hydraulic engineer, making it a perfect stop for water management buffs. The guides emphasize that De Rijp remains free from mass tourism, allowing you to soak in its beauty without the crowds.

The tour also includes a drive through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Beemster, a well-planned polder landscape with straight roads, farms, and canals. It’s impressive how the Dutch designed their land for efficiency and beauty, and the small farms and green fields give you a true sense of rural harmony.

Cheese and Wooden Shoes at Jacobs Hoeve

No trip to the Netherlands would be complete without cheese, and at Jacobs Hoeve, you’ll sample Gouda and Edam in an array of 30 flavors. The guides are quick to point out that Henri Willig is among the top ten cheesemakers worldwide, and this tasting is a highlight for cheese lovers. They also demonstrate how traditional wooden clogs are made, and you might even get to try on a pair yourself.

The Picturesque Village of Volendam

Lunch in Volendam offers a chance to unwind and enjoy local flavors. Whether you prefer fresh fish or traditional Dutch pancakes, your guides will help you find a spot that suits your taste. Afterward, you’ll explore the harbor and the maze of old fisherman’s houses, walking along the dike with views of the water. It’s a lively, authentic fishing village with a timeless feel, far removed from mainstream tourist areas.

Broek in Waterland: A Water Village Like No Other

The final stop is the serene village of Broek in Waterland, often compared to Giethoorn but less crowded. You’ll stroll past old wooden houses, some dating back centuries, and see a beautifully restored 16th-century church. The cobblestone streets and tombstones in the pavement tell stories of a long-standing community deeply intertwined with the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private windmill tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glimpse of Holland’s countryside. If you enjoy authentic stories, scenic drives, and learning about Dutch land reclamation, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s a great fit for those who appreciate history, culture, and cheese — especially if you prefer personalized attention over large bus tours.

While it’s a bit of a splurge at around $400 per person, the value lies in the intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to explore hidden gems. If you’re traveling with family or friends who share these interests, it can be a memorable way to connect with this iconic landscape.

Price and Logistics

At approximately six hours, the tour offers a comprehensive look at the Dutch countryside, with convenient hotel pickup and private transportation. The cost includes parking, bottled water, and free entrance to all sights visited, though lunch is not included—your guides can recommend local eateries tailored to your preferences. Booking well in advance (about 33 days ahead) is advisable, given its popularity and limited group size.

Final Thoughts

In all, this private windmill tour provides a rich, authentic way to see Holland’s legendary landscape. The guides’ local knowledge and engaging storytelling turn what could be a simple sightseeing drive into a personal journey through history and nature. You’ll love the scenic views, the quiet villages, and the chance to taste local cheese in a setting far removed from busy tourist spots.

It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical Amsterdam highlights and experience the winding waterways, historic windmills, and charming rural villages that define Dutch culture. If you’re after a day of authentic, relaxed exploration with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ: Private Countryside Windmill Tour

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group participates, making it an intimate experience tailored to your interests.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, parking fees, bottled water, and free entrance to the windmills and villages visited.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. The Windmill Girls are passionate locals who share personal stories and insights, making the experience more meaningful.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about six hours, from pickup in Amsterdam to drop-off back at your hotel.

Can I choose where to eat lunch?
Yes, the guides can suggest local places based on your preferences, whether you want fish, pancakes, or something else.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and the private setting makes it flexible for families with children or groups seeking a personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 33 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

This private spin on Holland’s countryside offers a genuine, relaxed way to experience the country’s windmill heritage and scenic beauty. If authentic villages, historic mills, and cheese tasting appeal to you, this is a memorable choice.