Dutch Hollywood Windmill Village: Step into a Fairytale Movie Scene

Just outside Amsterdam lies a dreamy corner known as Zaanse Schans, often nicknamed the "Dutch Hollywood Windmill Village." This picturesque spot resembles a movie set and encapsulates the quintessential charm of the Netherlands: wooden clogs, cheese, windmills amidst green fields, and canals reflecting the sky and clouds.

The Golden Era of Spinning Windmills
Since the 16th century, this area became Europe's first "industrial zone" due to its abundance of windmills. Nearly a thousand windmills once operated here, sawing wood, pressing oil, grinding spices, and more. Today, a few still turn with the wind, including "De Kat," the world's last functioning dye mill. Climbing its creaky stairs and watching the massive blades slice through the sky feels like traveling back to the Netherlands' golden age.

🧀 Experience the Dutch Treasures
1. Wooden Clog Workshop: Watch craftsmen carve traditional clogs from poplar wood in an instant. Try on a pair of bright yellow "Klompen" and discover they're surprisingly comfortable!
2. Cheese Farm: The air is filled with a rich dairy aroma. Sample Gouda, smoked, and herb-flavored cheeses, and inevitably end up buying a stash (warning: suitcase overload!).
3. Chocolate Factory: The Dutch obsession with cocoa transforms here into silky, indulgent handmade chocolates.

📸 Postcard-Worthy Spots
✨ Windmills and Canals: Stand on the wooden bridge at the village entrance to capture five windmills and their reflections in the water. On sunny days, no filter is needed.
✨ Green Houses and Flower Fields: Stroll along the bike paths and stumble upon triangular-roofed farmhouses surrounded by tulips, as if stepping into a Dutch still-life painting.

‼️ Travel Tips
- Transportation: Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Koog-Zaandijk station, then walk 15 minutes, or hop on bus 391 for direct access.
- Secret Moment: Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the windmill village without tourists. The morning mist creates a landscape akin to an oil painting.
- Nearby Gems: Visit the neighboring town of Zaandam to see colorful Lego-like houses (new Instagram material alert!).

Post by 找個莉遊 | Jul 29, 2025