The Schermer
in the Land of Leeghwater
From Schermeer to Schermerpolder
The Schermerpolder was one big lake centuries ago. Today, thanks to reclamation, thousands of people can happily live, work and recreate here. But how did our ancestors turn water into land?
And what can still be seen of this today?
The Schermer mills
After draining the Beemster and the Purmer, it was the turn of the Schermermeer in 1633. The depth and size of the lake posed a great challenge, but with the help of no less than 52 watermills, the dammers succeeded in draining the lake within two years. No fewer than 11 of the 52 mills have been preserved! Get to know the Schermerpolder on a cycling or walking tour and see how the mills stand stately in the landscape or learn more about the reclamation and the mills in the Museummolen.
Museum mill
The Museummolen in Schermerhorn is one of the 11 remaining polder mills in Schermer that drained the polder 400 years ago. Several months a year, this mill is open to the public and you can see it from top to toe! In the museum, you will learn how a watermill works, how people used to live and work here and learn more about the history of the polder. Seize this opportunity to see a mill from the inside and visit the Museummolen.
Corn mill the Otter
A special mill, because corn mill the Otter is the only one - in this landscape full of mills - to grind grain instead of water and houses Fermento's care-work project. Ten handicapped people work here in the mill and the adjoining bakery. Among other things, the employees help with grinding in the mill, baking bread and selling products. Stop by in the summer months for a delicious cup of coffee or refreshment on the terrace by the ring canal!
Highlights of the Schermer
Fancy discovering for yourself the land that was once water? Then don't set off without checking out these highlights of the Schermer. Whether you want to learn more about the history of this centuries-old polder, enjoy special art in peace and quiet or are looking for an original outing, with these highlights an enjoyable day out is within reach.
So check them out quickly and find your favourite outing!
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The smallest house
The Smallest House tells you the story of life and living in the village of Schermerhorn around 1900 and tells the story of Antje Tuijnman. Schermerhorn used to have many of these kinds of gardener's cottages, sometimes housing families of more than 10 people. Can you imagine it?
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Mrs Cha
This is the address for true tea lovers! With love, tea sommelier Linda travels the world to select the tastiest teas, so that you too can experience these delicious flavours at home. Would you like to experience tea in a different way? Then enjoy the tea tasting and let tea sommelier Linda tell you all about the world of tea!
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Nic Jonk sculpture garden
With as many as hundreds of sculptures spread all over the world, Nic Jonk is an artist we can be proud of! In the museum and sculpture garden of the same name in Grootschermer, you can admire several of his works in one day and be inspired by this artist. When will you drop by?