Kinderdijk, known for its rich culture and history, is a must-see attraction for visitors to South Holland. Kinderdijk, just 9 miles from Rotterdam, is home to the Netherlands’ oldest collection of Dutch windmills, peacefully hidden in the confluence of the Lek and Noord rivers. Kinderdijk’s windmills were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. It has since become a must-see destination for visitors wishing to escape the rush and bustle of city life.
With so many excursions and activities, it’s tough not to become engrossed in the legend surrounding this wonderfully beautiful countryside hideaway.
Water-working innovations, stories of destructive storms and heroic rescues, and great architectural marvels are just a few of the wonders that punctuate this otherwise tranquil town’s fascinating past.
Interesting History of Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk windmills are located in a lovely, water-rich location near Rotterdam. These 19 majestic windmills were built in about 1740 as part of a bigger water management system to prevent flooding.
They now represent Dutch water management and were designated a UNESCO Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk in 1997. Why? The Kinderdijk windmills were erected to keep the Alblasserwaard’s low-lying soil dry. They produce iconic Dutch pictures arranged opposite one another, which is famous among photographers. If you intend to send a typical postcard with a windmill to friends or family back home, the image will certainly be of Kinderdijk.
Once there, you can marvel at the numerous waterways, dikes, mills, and locks and learn how the Dutch have used water to their advantage for over 1000 years. Kinderdijk is an absolute must if you want to learn about the history of Dutch windmills and rivers.
What you NEED to know before taking an ultimate day trip to Kinderdijk.
The amazing story before Kinderdijk you may not know
Visitors to Kinderdijk should go inside the three Museum Mills and view the multiscreen video at De Fabriek Auxiliary Pumping Station. On several displays, it narrates the narrative of the mill complex, and you’ll learn how Kinderdijk gained its name…
Explore the area from the water by sailing one of the boats along the mills. Visit the mill workshop to learn more about mill operation and maintenance.
The Kinderdijk windmills are located near Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ port city, and Dordrecht, the country’s oldest city. National Park De Biesbosch, a unique freshwater tidal area with remarkable flora and fauna, is also recommended.
What to expect at UNESCO World Heritage Site
Do you want to know what to do at the Kinderdijk windmills? As previously stated, the Kinderdijk windmills are a UNESCO Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, which is incentive enough to visit.
Blokker is the name of Kinderdijk’s oldest windmill, a must-see. It initially appeared in historical texts in the early sixteenth century.
Only two of Kinderdijk’s 19 windmills are available for tours today. The rest can be photographed, however, they are private houses. Blokweer and Nederwaard are the names of the two windmills that may be visited.
While these buildings were intended to manage water levels, the village people also utilized them to transmit news and events.
Marriages, births, and deaths were marked by raising the sails of the windmills. Windmill operators would decorate them with colorful ribbons and flags during town celebrations.
Besides the world-famous UNESCO Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, historical tours of the town’s pumping stations are also available.
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Location
The Kinderdijk windmills are located close to Rotterdam and around an hour and a half from Amsterdam and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. You can reach it via public transportation. If you are traveling by automobile, be aware of where you may and cannot park. Cycling from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk is also an option. A lovely route of about 15 kilometers, depending on where you start in Rotterdam.
Finally, the Waterbus provides easy access to Kinderdijk. The boat ride provides a good overview of the surroundings; you can bring your bike on board for free. The Waterbus leaves Dordrecht’s old city center and Rotterdam’s center.
When is the Wonderful Time to Visit?
There is no bad time to go to Kinderdijk, the Netherlands. It is available to tourists annually and has no distinct on or off-season. While it is quieter in the winter, the view is always spectacular.
The property is free to visit, however, tours of the museums and pumphouse cost between five and ten euros, depending on the number of children and adults in your party. Tickets for Kinderdijk may be in town at several locations.
You will not regret it if you rise up with the sun to enjoy the full beauty of the day ahead, especially because you may take your time exploring the town’s amenities. The town is beautiful at sunset for those who get up late. Many of the attractions, however, close by mid-afternoon.
In conclusion, is it worthwhile to visit?
Kinderdijk is an excellent tourist destination. The windmills, canals, and villages are all spectacular and worth your time. Kinderdijk is a must-see whether you’re searching for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Amsterdam. Make certain that you view the inside of the windmills. Each one offers a unique perspective on the location, so it’s always interesting to see them all.
You will not be disappointed even if you have a few hours to spend in Kinderdijk. With so much to see, you’ll stay for days, but the short trip from Amsterdam is worth even if you can’t. Most importantly, it will not break the bank.
