Highlights Old Holland

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and approximately 3.5 metres below sea level! Fancy living there is probably what many foreigners think. In the 17th century, man conquered the water here and transformed the inland lake of ‘De Beemster’ into a beautiful polder landscape, conveniently organised in geometrical patterns of perfect quadrants. Later, characteristic ‘stolp’ farms (large, pyramid-shaped farmhouses, typical of the Dutch province of Noord-Holland) and historic villages dotted the landscape. Will you come over and see for yourself?

Broek in Waterland is one of the most unique places in the Netherlands. This picturesque village just above Amsterdam has a lot of national monuments and is a conservation area. Surrounded by water and meadows, it is an oasis of tranquillity, yet still close to the conurbation known in the Netherlands as the ‘Randstad’. The village has a rich history and this can still be seen, for example, in the decorative wooden houses that contribute to the charm of the landscape.Walk through the village or discover everything that Broek in Waterland has to offer by bike or from the water by silent boat. 

In 1375 Edam received its city charter from Count Willem V and, like Amsterdam and Hoorn, it developed into one of the main harbour cities of Noord-Holland. Its shipyards, lumber trade and mercantile spirit enabled Edam to grow into a true jewel of the former Zuiderzee, which we can still enjoy today. Stroll through the old city centre and enjoy the monumental houses, the churches, harbours, canals and squares. Don’t forget to visit the Cheesemarket in the centre of Edam during the summer. The cheese is still brought by boats and you can experience the trading of cheese like it used to be.

Together, Landsmeer, Den Ilp and Purmerland form an extensive ribbon village. The village is situated close to the ring of Amsterdam and is just a stone's throw from the pleasant shopping towns of Zaanstad and Purmerend. The Ilperveld stretches out on one side and the recreational area, ’t Twiske lies on the other. Take a boat trip or cycle through either of these two beautiful natural and you will have the opportunity to see various breeds of birds such as redshank, snipe or bittern. 

It was not until 1957 that the former island of Marken was connected to the mainland of the Netherlands by a narrow causeway. Marken has always retained its charm and island characteristics. The inhabitants are proud of this, which is apparent from the fact that they still wear traditional costumes on special days. A unique collection of the traditional costumes of Marken can be admired in the Marker Museum. The picturesque village houses are an authentic part of the Netherlands in typical Dutch surroundings, alternating from green to water. 

Whether you are approaching from the water or from the land: the tower of the Saint Nicolaas church shows you the way to idyllic Monnickendam. As soon as you enter the town, you become bewitched by the picturesque houses and streets, and its location on the banks of the former Zuiderzee. For centuries, Monnickendam has been famous for its fish smokers and curers. If you go for a stroll in the old part of Monnickendam be sure to look at the beautifully decorated gable stones set into the walls of the houses. The compact city centre is definitely  worth visiting.

The fascinating village of Oostzaan is located close to Amsterdam. This linear settlement is originated in the 12th century and is enveloped by breathtaking countryside. To the west is the Oostzanerveld Nature Reserve; a unique peatland landscape criss-crossed with water ditches and dotted with hundreds of small islands that are best explored by boat or canoe. To the east of Oostzaan is Het Twiske recreational area which offers countless leisure pursuits, including walking, cycling, horse riding, water sports and ­swimming. 

Purmerend may not have preserved its entire cultural heritage but this charming little town still counts 30 national and 127 municipal monuments. One of the town’s prominent places is the Koemarkt which for many centuries was a thriving cattle market. It is now a lively pedestrian square with an array of cafés and restaurants. Purmerend unites the charms of the past with the pleasures of modern life. Visit the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and enjoy a drink on one of the many pavement terraces. 

Around the globe, Volendam is by far on of the most famous places in the Netherlands after Amsterdam. Traditional costumes and smoked eel are two important ingredients to which Volendam owes its fame. This village has become immortalised in the works of many famous painters. They were attracted by the scenic and authentic life of its inhabitants and that’s how Volendam became a meeting place for, mostly foreign, artists. The harbour, decorated with old fishing boats and pleasure craft, is a feast for the eyes.