Zaanse Schans Guide
Step Back in Time: Windmills and Traditional Crafts at Zaanse Schans Guide
Welcome to Zaanse Schans, a living museum that offers a captivating glimpse into 18th and 19th-century Dutch life. This charming village, located just north of Amsterdam, is renowned for its iconic windmills, historic houses, and traditional craft workshops. It's a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Dutch experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Zaanse Schans wasn't always a single, unified village. The windmills and houses were relocated here from various parts of the Zaan region, starting in the 1960s, to preserve the area's industrial heritage. The Zaan region was once a major industrial center, powered by hundreds of windmills that processed everything from grain and wood to paint and mustard. Today, the Zaanse Schans stands as a testament to this rich industrial past, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Dutch people. Visitors to Zaanse Schans can explore working windmills, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts like clog making and cheese production, and wander through the picturesque streets lined with colorful wooden houses. You can also visit the Zaans Museum to learn more about the history of the region and its industries. Don't forget to sample local delicacies like Dutch cheese and stroopwafels! The area is also known for its traditional mustard, often made using the windmills themselves.
Transportation
From Amsterdam Centraal Station, take a direct train to Zaandam. From Zaandam station, take bus 391 to Zaanse Schans. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.