Non touristic Private Sightseeing Countryside Windmill Tour

A private, non-touristy glimpse into Holland’s windmill country, led by the Windmill Girls, offers an authentic and enriching experience. For about six hours, you’ll journey through tranquil villages, towering historic windmills, and lush polders, all with personalized attention. The cost is around $400 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but the depth of access, intimate setting, and local insights make this a worthwhile investment—especially for those craving authentic Dutch charm away from the busier tourist spots.

What we love about this experience is how it combines both cultural storytelling and scenic beauty. The guides, being locals raised in windmills themselves, share stories that add genuine warmth and insight. Plus, the stops at lesser-visited villages like De Rijp and Broek in Waterland give you a quieter, more genuine feel of rural Holland. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the tour is quite structured—with a full itinerary packed into roughly six hours—so if you prefer a more leisurely, unstructured exploration, it might feel a bit tight.

This tour suits travelers who love history, authentic scenery, and local flavors. It’s perfect if you want to go beyond the typical tourist trail, dive into the countryside, and learn from guides who are passionate about their heritage. If you’re a cheese lover or fascinated by land reclamation projects, these details will really enhance your appreciation. It’s also a great choice for those who value private, personalized tours over large group outings.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Led by passionate local guides who grew up among windmills.
• Rich Itinerary: Visits include historic windmills, quaint villages, and a cheese farm.
• Scenic Drive: Through reclaimed lands and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Personalized Service: Private transportation, flexible stops, and tailored recommendations.
• Cultural Insights: Engaging tales about land reclamation, local history, and traditional crafts.
• Value for Money: An immersive, private experience offering more than just sights.

An In-Depth Look at the Windmill Girls’ Private Countryside Tour

Starting from Amsterdam, the tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, setting the tone for a seamless journey. The guides, who are real locals with a love for their land, immediately make the experience feel personal. They’re not just showing you sights—they’re sharing stories that breathe life into the landscape, making it clear that this is a tour crafted for those who want more than just a snapshot.

The Windmills and Land Reclamation

Your first stop is the Museummolen Schermer, a 17th-century windmill that tells the story of how the Dutch reclaimed land from water. You’ll see the innards of a working mill, and the guides will explain how 52 mills drained Lake Schermer in the Golden Age, transforming it into productive farmland. This is a highlight for anyone interested in Dutch ingenuity. The fact that the admission is included means you can explore at your own pace—step inside the mill, peer up at the massive blades, and imagine life in those times.

Next, a scenic drive along the dikes takes you through the Schermer polder, one of Holland’s most significant reclaimed lands. Passing by Esther’s family windmill, you’ll soak in views of peaceful farmland and small villages—an ideal setting for photography and quiet contemplation. Many visitors appreciate this part, noting that the views are simply beautiful, with some commenting that they “would have missed these gems without this tour.”

Visiting De Rijp and the Beemster Polder

De Rijp, a former bustling fishing village, offers a peaceful walk through cobbled streets lined with traditional Dutch houses. Once filled with herring ships and whalers, the village now feels untouched by mass tourism, offering an authentic slice of history. You’ll see the narrow streets and old houses built without a planned street grid—a feature that adds to its charm. One reviewer mentioned that “De Rijp is a beautiful village to visit,” highlighting its quaint, unspoiled character.

The tour also passes through the UNESCO-listed Beemster polder, a perfectly planned landscape of farms, roads, and canals. This area showcases the impressive Dutch expertise in water management—an essential part of their history—and offers captivating views of green meadows and historic farmsteads. For those interested in land use and engineering, this is a visual treat.

Cheese Tasting at Jacobs Hoeve

No trip to the Netherlands is complete without sampling Gouda cheese, and this tour’s visit to Henri Willig’s cheese farm is a highlight. With 30 flavors of cheese, you’ll have ample opportunity to taste and compare. The cheese expert will share how Gouda and Edam cheeses are made—and if you’re curious about traditional crafts, there’s even a wooden shoe demonstration. Several guests commented they were “cheese in heaven,” especially appreciating that the cheeses are developed for travel, ensuring durability and flavor.

Exploring Volendam and Broek in Waterland

Lunchtime is flexible; guides will suggest local eateries based on your preferences—whether you’re craving fish, pancakes, or a light snack. This personalized touch is appreciated by many, as it allows you to enjoy authentic Dutch cuisine.

Post-lunch, you’ll wander through Volendam, the iconic fishing village with its harbor, narrow streets, and colorful houses. The maze-like old town offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch fishing life, and you’ll walk along the dike with views across the water. Visitors love this part, with some noting that “the charm of Volendam is in its harbor and houses,” making it an ideal spot for photos and soaking up local atmosphere.

Finally, the tour visits Broek in Waterland, often compared to Giethoorn but less crowded. Surrounded by water, this village features historic wooden houses, a 16th-century church, and stone-paved streets lined with tombstones of wealthy past inhabitants. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a stroll and reflect on the rural beauty of Holland.

The Return to Amsterdam

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, typically taking around 30 minutes. With the group size limited to your private party, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced the countryside with new friends—guided by locals who truly love their land.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The guides’ local background and passion are among the strongest points. As they were raised in windmills, Esther and her companion offer stories and insights that you won’t find in standard guidebooks. Many guests have raved about how “Esther showed us areas we wouldn’t have seen otherwise,” making the tour feel truly tailored and personal.

The focus on lesser-touristed villages—like De Rijp and Broek—means you avoid large crowds and overrun attractions. This is a significant advantage for travelers seeking authentic Dutch village life. Plus, the combination of scenic drives, historical windmills, and cheese tastings creates a full, immersive experience that touches on many aspects of Dutch heritage.

The value proposition lies in the attention to detail, the private nature of the tour, and the insider knowledge. While $400 per person may seem high, it includes private transportation, all entrance fees, and a personalized experience that’s hard to match in larger group tours.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private countryside windmill tour is ideal for history buffs, cheese aficionados, and travelers craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you enjoy learning stories from passionate guides who are locals—and you want to see the quiet, picturesque side of Holland—this tour offers a compelling package. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, want to avoid the crowds, and are eager to explore the Dutch landscape and heritage in depth.

Travelers who appreciate scenic drives, cultural storytelling, and food tastings will find this tour a memorable highlight of their visit to Amsterdam. It’s not for those seeking a quick, superficial overview but rather for those ready to enjoy a thoughtfully curated, immersive day in the Dutch countryside.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately six hours, including pickup, visits, and return to your hotel.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, parking fees, bottled water, and all entrance fees are included, along with a cheese tasting.

Can I choose where to eat lunch?
Yes, the guides are happy to recommend local restaurants based on your preferences—whether you prefer fish, pancakes, or something else.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for anyone interested in Dutch culture, scenic landscapes, and authentic villages.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 33 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Are the stops flexible?
Since this is a private tour, stops can be tailored to your interests and pace, though the itinerary is designed to be comprehensive.

What makes this tour different from other countryside excursions?
The guides’ genuine local roots, the focus on lesser-known villages, and the authentic stories about windmills and land reclamation set this experience apart.

This private Windmill Girls tour offers a thoughtful, authentic look at Holland’s windmill landscapes and villages, perfect for travelers seeking depth over crowds. With knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and a focus on real local life, it delivers an experience that’s both educational and charming—an excellent choice for those eager to see Holland’s countryside through a genuine lens.