Windmills Zaanse Schans and The HagueTour
Wheelchair accessible experience
Zaanse Schans is a picturesque village that offers a fascinating window into the Netherlands’ past. This historic area, set along the Zaan River, is a living museum of 18th and 19th-century Dutch life. Here, you’ll find an array of traditional wooden houses, charming windmills, and artisanal shops and restaurants. Your guide will provide insights into the historical techniques of Dutch cheese-making and the artistry behind wooden clogs. While windmills are a quintessential symbol of Dutch culture, Zaanse Schans features some of the most historically significant examples.
After experiencing the historical charm of Zaanse Schans, continue your journey with a guided tour of The Hague. In the latter part of your day, delve into the rich history, distinctive architecture, and vibrant culture of this influential city. Your guide will take you through The Hague’s most compelling sites, offering a thorough understanding of its unique historical and cultural landscape.
The guided tours offered by Accessible Travel Netherlands can be customized to suit your needs. You can arrange different routes and times to fit your preferences. Your guide will ensure the entire tour, both in Zaanse Schans and The Hague, is accessible to wheelchair users, with all locations featuring accessible entrances. Every stop along the route has been carefully selected by the Accessible Travel Netherlands team.
Highlights
- Windmills
- Traditional Zaanse houses
- Clog museum and workshop
- Cheese workshop
- Binnenhof
- Mauritshuis
- The Peace Palace
- Noordeinde Palace
Accessibility info
- Flat terrain
- Cobblestones: from smooth to bumpy
- Accessible bridges
- Use of sidewalk ramps
- Involve walking/rolling between the sites
- Accessible toilet
- Adapted vehicle for transportation
Included
- Private tour with a professional guide
- Tour adjustable to your wishes
- Adapted vehicle for transportation
- Duration: 8 hours (incl. transfer)
- Start: your accommodation in The Hague or surroundings
- End: your accommodation or on request.
- Participants: max 10 per guide
Not included:
- Food/drinks
Discover the tour
Zaanse Schans
Your private guide will meet you at your accomodation in Amsterdam. From there, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to Zaanse Schans in a private adapted vehicle. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the sight of iconic wooden windmills gracefully standing along the banks of the Zaan River, with picturesque meadows stretching into the distance. This enchanting landscape offers a quintessential Dutch view: charming windmills surrounded by vibrant greenery and serene waters. As you explore Zaanse Schans, you’ll also get a glimpse into life during the 18th and 19th centuries in the Zaanstreek, which is renowned as the oldest industrial region in Western Europe. Once bustling with hundreds of windmills, this area played a significant role in the region’s industrial history, producing a variety of goods and contributing to the development of Dutch industry.
Catharina Hoeve cheese farm
Your tour also includes a visit to a traditional cheese farm, where you’ll experience Dutch cheesemaking at its finest. At Catharina Hoeve cheese farm, you’ll see cheesemakers dressed in traditional Dutch costumes, giving you an authentic glimpse into the art of cheese production. They will guide you through the cheese-making process, explaining the differences between various types of Dutch cheese and the techniques used to produce them. This hands-on demonstration allows you to learn about the rich traditions and flavors of Dutch cheese. After the demonstration, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of cheeses and purchase your favorites at the farm’s shop. The farm offers a delightful chance to savor the rich, creamy flavors of Dutch cheese in an authentic setting.
Dutch Clogs Factory
Another highlight of your visit is the clog factory, where you’ll discover the traditional craftsmanship behind Dutch wooden clogs. In this factory, skilled artisans carve clogs from single blocks of wood, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating these iconic Dutch footwear pieces. You’ll have the chance to observe the entire process, from the initial carving to the final finishing touches. If you’re interested, you can even participate in a workshop to make your own pair of clogs, gaining hands-on experience with this traditional craft. Additionally, while you’re at the clog factory, be sure to enjoy some classic Dutch pancakes, which add a delicious touch to your cultural exploration. This experience offers a unique and immersive way to engage with Dutch traditions and craftsmanship.
Windmills
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the historic windmills that have become symbols of Dutch heritage. Each windmill has its own unique name and historical significance, serving as a small-scale factory in its own right. Inside the windmills, you’ll learn about the various tasks they performed, from cutting wood and oil to grinding flour, spices, and dyes. The process of operating these windmills was both intricate and labor-intensive, reflecting the ingenuity and hard work of the Dutch craftsmen who operated them. Some of the windmills at Zaanse Schans are still in operation, providing a rare chance to observe traditional milling techniques and see how these age-old processes functioned in their prime. Witnessing these working windmills offers a deeper appreciation of the skill and effort involved in maintaining such historical practices.
Binnenhof
The Binnenhof, a historic complex at the heart of The Hague, is a central piece of Dutch political history. Originally built in the 13th century as a castle for the Counts of Holland, it has evolved into the seat of the Dutch parliament. The complex showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with the iconic Ridderzaal (Knight’s Hall) standing out for its grandeur. This majestic hall, with its high vaulted ceilings and ornate décor, has been the venue for the annual King’s Speech since 1815. The Binnenhof’s picturesque courtyards and historic buildings offer a glimpse into the workings of Dutch governance and its rich heritage. Accessible pathways ensure that visitors can easily explore the site, where the past and present of Dutch politics converge.
Mauritshuis
The Mauritshuis, nestled in the heart of The Hague, is a celebrated art museum housed in a 17th-century mansion. Originally built as a residence for Count Maurits of Nassau, the building has been transformed into one of the Netherlands’ premier art institutions. The museum is renowned for its collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Hals. Its elegant architecture complements the world-class art inside, with the museum’s layout thoughtfully designed for accessibility. The Mauritshuis offers an intimate experience with some of the most iconic paintings of Dutch history, set against the backdrop of a beautifully preserved historical building.
The Peace Palace
The Peace Palace, an architectural marvel of early 20th-century design, stands as a global symbol of diplomacy and international law. Completed in 1913, it was funded by the American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie and designed by architect Louis Mors. The palace houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Its neo-Renaissance style, with its ornate facade and lush gardens, reflects the ideals of peace and cooperation. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Peace Palace, gaining insight into its role in international diplomacy and the pursuit of global justice. The accessible tours offer an in-depth look at this important institution, set in the elegant surroundings of one of The Hague’s most iconic landmarks.
Noordeinde Palace
Noordeinde Palace, one of the three official residences of the Dutch monarch, is an architectural gem and a symbol of the Dutch monarchy. Originally a medieval abbey, the palace was converted into a royal residence in the 16th century and has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. The palace is known for its stunning neoclassical facade and beautifully landscaped gardens. Although the interior is not open to the public, the exterior and the surrounding area offer visitors a chance to admire the grandeur of Dutch royal architecture. The accessible paths around Noordeinde Palace provide a glimpse into the royal life and the historic heart of The Hague.