Yesterday, I had the absolute joy of spending the day with a sweet family of four from Cyprus — two adventurous kids and two warm-hearted parents — on one of my favorite experiences: a private Dutch countryside tour from Amsterdam.
We started a bit later than usual, around 10:30 AM, which gave everyone a relaxed morning. As soon as the kids hopped into the luxury Mercedes van, I could feel their excitement. “Are we really going to see windmills today?” they asked. Oh yes — and much more than that!
🇳🇱 Zaanse Schans – Windmills That Wow
Our first stop was the picture-perfect Zaanse Schans, a living postcard of Dutch tradition. The kids were wide-eyed walking past the spinning windmills, green wooden houses, and goats grazing by the cheese farm. We popped into a clog workshop where they watched a pair of wooden shoes being made in front of their eyes — and yes, they both tried on clogs twice their size, to everyone’s amusement!
We tasted a variety of local cheeses, from aged to spicy to creamy herb blends. The parents were especially taken by the truffle gouda, and I could see their shopping bags filling up fast!
🌿 Museummolen Schermer – Windmill in the Middle of Nowhere
After the bustle of Zaanse Schans, we headed into the peaceful countryside to visit Museummolen Schermer, a real hidden gem. Surrounded by open fields and canals, this 17th-century windmill tells the story of how the Dutch reclaimed their land from the sea. It was quiet, authentic, and utterly fascinating — even the kids climbed all the way to the top!
I love including this stop in my tours because it’s off the typical tourist path. The father said, “I never knew windmills were actually used to keep the land dry!” Mission accomplished.
🐟 Volendam – Harbor Views & Lunch by the Water
By now it was lunchtime, and we made our way to Volendam, the colorful fishing village with a heart of gold. We strolled along the harbor, watched fishing boats bob in the water, and enjoyed a delicious lunch. The kids had pancakes and fries (of course), and the parents tried the fresh catch of the day. I couldn’t let them leave without tasting a classic stroopwafel — always a hit.
They even dressed up in traditional Dutch costume for the famous Volendam photo — and trust me, that’s a fridge magnet you’ll never forget!
🏡 Marken – A Storybook Ending
Our final stop was Marken, a peaceful peninsula where time seems to have stood still. Wooden houses, tiny bridges, narrow lanes… The whole village feels like a movie set. We walked around slowly, soaking in the calm and charm. The kids spotted ducks in the canal and wanted to stay longer, but we were already running on happy memories and full bellies.
🚐 Home by 18:30 – Happy, Tired, and Full of Stories
We returned to Amsterdam just before 18:30, with everyone smiling (and one of the kids fast asleep in the backseat). The mother told me, “This was the highlight of our trip — so personal and relaxed.” That’s exactly what I aim for.