Volendam: 2-Hour Clogmaking Workshop and Cheese Tour

Location: North Holland, Netherlands
Price: $83 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Rating: 4.2/5 based on 17 reviews
Supplier: Simonehoeve Cheese, Clogs and Restaurant

If you’re heading to North Holland and want a taste of traditional Dutch craftsmanship, this quick 2-hour experience in Volendam is worth considering. For around $83, you get to learn how to craft your own wooden clog, taste some of Holland’s finest cheese—including Gouda and Edam—plus enjoy some local biscuits and wine.

We like that this tour combines hands-on activity with a tasting tour, making it a well-rounded snapshot of Dutch culture. Making your own clog is a memorable keepsake, and the guided cheese tasting gives insight into Holland’s cheese-making traditions, which are renowned worldwide. Plus, the opportunity to decorate your clog or a bottle opener adds a creative flair.

One potential drawback is the inconsistency in the tour’s pacing and guide engagement. One reviewer noted a somewhat hurried and chaotic welcome, which might affect your initial impression. The activity is also quite short, so if you’re seeking an in-depth experience or a relaxed pace, this might feel rushed.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy interactive workshops and want a quick, authentic taste of Dutch craft and cuisine. It’s perfect for those with limited time in Holland or families looking for a fun, memorable activity.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Make your own wooden clog from scratch, a true hands-on experience.
• Cultural tasting: Sample classic Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam, along with biscuits and local wine.
• Guided learning: Benefit from a tour that explains the cheese and clog making process with knowledgeable guides.
• Memorable souvenirs: Take home your handmade clog and decorated clog or bottle opener.
• Limited duration: Two hours makes this a quick activity, so set your expectations accordingly.
• Potential inconsistencies: Some reviews mention a hurried guide and high-priced souvenirs, so go prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Arrival and Meeting Point

Your adventure starts at Simonehoeve, located at Wagenweg 2, Katwoude/Volendam. If you’re coming from Amsterdam, taking bus 316 from the city’s Central Station is your best option. The bus stops at “Hotel Volendam,” just a few meters from the workshop, marked by a windmill, which makes it easy to find. Budget about an hour for the bus ride, and be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.

Clogmaking Session

Once there, we found the clogmaking activity to be quite engaging. The process begins with a block of Dutch poplar wood, which is shaped into a clog using traditional tools. We appreciated how the instructor explained each step, from shaping the outside with a large knife to carving out the inside with a sharp spoon. This old-fashioned technique gives you a real appreciation for Dutch craftsmanship.

The process takes about 45 minutes, during which each person makes their own clog. It’s a rewarding experience, especially since you get to keep your creation. The addition of decorating your clog or beer opener with engraving tools and bright paints adds a creative touch—perfect for those who like a bit of artistry with their craft.

Cheese Tour and Tasting

After your shoe is fashioned, it’s time for a guided tour of the cheese factory. Here, you’ll learn how milk is transformed into Gouda and other cheeses, discovering the traditional tools used in slicing and aging. The guides are typically knowledgeable, and some reviews praise the staff as “extremely welcoming, brilliant, and helpful.”

This part of the tour is especially appealing for cheese lovers. You’ll see a variety of cheese types and taste some of Holland’s best offerings. The tastings include not only cheeses but also biscuits like stroopwafel and local fruit wine, making it a delightful combination of flavors. Many visitors have enjoyed the generous samples and the friendly atmosphere. One reviewer specifically highlighted the “wonderful cheese, wine and sauces,” describing their visit as “a day well spent.”

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Souvenirs and Additional Offerings

The shop at Simonehoeve is full of souvenirs, from cheese to handcrafted items. Prices can be high, so if you’re budget-conscious, be prepared for that. The opportunity to decorate your clog or bottle opener adds a personal touch—an ideal memento of your time in Holland.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• The tour lasts about 2 hours, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Arrive between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for the best experience.
• The experience is not suitable for children under 16, which some might find limiting if traveling with younger family members.
• While transportation isn’t included, the bus from Amsterdam is straightforward and affordable.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on activities, as well as cheese lovers eager to learn about Dutch dairy traditions. It’s also great for families (with older children), couples looking for a fun, authentic activity, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful taste of Dutch craftsmanship.

If you’re interested in more in-depth workshops or cultural experiences, you might want to explore other options. But if your goal is a fun, informative, and souvenir-filled morning, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $83, you’re paying for more than just a quick workshop; you’re getting a chance to make your own clog, taste authentic Dutch cheeses, and walk away with handcrafted souvenirs. The guided tour offers a solid background, and the tasting experience, especially the cheese and wine, creates a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Be aware that some reviewers mention a hurried welcome and high prices for souvenirs, so manage your expectations accordingly. Still, for an engaging, family-friendly introduction to Dutch traditions, this experience delivers both fun and authenticity.

If you’re in North Holland and want a light, interactive activity that combines craftsmanship with culinary delights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for those who love hands-on experiences, local flavors, and a little creative souvenir to take home.

FAQs

• How long does the tour last?
  The entire experience takes about 2 hours, making it a manageable activity for most schedules.

• Where is the meeting point?
  The tour starts at Simonehoeve, Wagenweg 2, Katwoude/Volendam, near the windmill and bus stop “Hotel Volendam.”

• Can I get to the tour from Amsterdam?
  Yes, you can take bus 316 from Amsterdam CS (IJzijde). Tickets are available at the station or from the bus driver.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Not for children under 16, as the activity involves carving and delicate craftsmanship.

• What is included in the price?
  You’ll make and take home your own clog and decorated clog or bottle opener, plus cheese tastings, biscuits, and wine.

• Are food and drinks included?
  Yes, the cheese, biscuits, and local fruit wine are part of the tasting experience. Additional food or drinks are not included.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is there a guide?
  Yes, a live tour guide explains the processes in multiple languages, including English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.

• What should I bring?
  Just your enthusiasm! Arrive on time and be prepared to have fun making your own wooden shoe and tasting Dutch delights.

This 2-hour workshop offers a charming introduction to Dutch clog making and cheese tasting, perfect for travelers wanting a tangible souvenir and a taste of local culture—an experience that’s both fun and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: