Visit Amsterdam Countryside with windmills by bike

Exploring the Dutch Countryside by Bike: A Review of the Windmills and Zaanse Schans Tour

If you’re seeking a way to escape the busy streets of Amsterdam and see a different side of the Netherlands, a bike tour through the countryside might be just what you need. This particular experience, offered by Hop-on Tours, promises a scenic, authentic taste of Dutch life — complete with windmills, cheese, clog making, and charming villages. With a small group of no more than 10 travelers, it’s designed to be a personal, engaging adventure that balances fun, education, and stunning views.

What we love about this tour is how it perfectly combines cycling, cultural insights, and nature. You get to see areas most travelers never reach, all while moving at a pace that allows for genuine enjoyment. And the guide, Hans, receives high praise for being not only knowledgeable but also friendly and engaging — making the experience even more memorable.

One thing to consider is the duration—about 5 hours, which includes cycling, sightseeing stops, and a boat ride back to Amsterdam. It’s a full morning or afternoon commitment, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfort on a bike are recommended. If you’re someone who enjoys active excursions and charming rural scenery, this tour is an excellent fit. It’s especially suited for travelers craving authentic local experiences and a break from the typical tourist trail.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch Experience: Discover parts of Holland often missed by travelers, away from the crowds.
• Small Group Intimacy: Max 10 participants for a personalized, engaging tour.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit windmills, a paper mill, Zaanse Schans, and learn clog making.
• Scenic Cycling: Ride through lush meadows, along rivers, and across historic dikes.
• Delicious Tastes: Sample local cheese and see how traditional Dutch clogs are made.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and friendly guides like Hans enhance the experience.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Stationsplein 14D in Amsterdam, a central and accessible location. From there, it’s a short train ride included in the tour price that takes you into the countryside, setting the tone for a seamless transition from urban to rural. The use of a bike, included in the price, means you’ll be able to explore at your own pace, with the guide ensuring safety and giving insightful commentary along the way.

The First Stop: Zaanstad

Our journey begins in Zaanstad — known as the larder of the Netherlands — where you’ll see the shops brimming with iconic Dutch products like Verkade cookies, Duyvis snack foods, and Cacao de Zaan cocoa powder. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s quite likely you’ve already come across these brands in Dutch grocery stores, making this stop a fun reminder of everyday Dutch life.

The Paper Mill: Papiermolen De Schoolmeester

One of the highlights is visiting the last remaining paper windmill in the world, where traditional paper was once produced with high quality that even reached America. Here, you’ll learn how Dutch paper was crafted historically, and if visiting on a weekend, you’ll see a working sawmill instead — a bonus for those interested in industrial heritage. The admission is included, making this a valuable peek into the country’s artisanal past.

Zaanse Schans

The famed Zaanse Schans is a living open-air museum full of wooden houses, windmills, and artisan workshops. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, during which you can peek inside a clog workshop, buy cheese directly from a dairy, and see windmills turning in the breeze. This stop is a real crowd-pleaser, with many reviewers highlighting how special it feels to see a preserved piece of traditional Dutch life.

Clog Making and Cheese Tasting

Getting hands-on with clog making offers a playful insight into Dutch craftsmanship. Watching artisans craft each clog provides a tangible connection to Dutch culture. Similarly, sampling fresh cheese at the dairy is a delicious experience — many reviewers mention how tasty and authentic these samples are.

Cycling Through Meadows and Dikes

The cycling portion offers views of meadow birds, long ditches, pollard willows, cows, and reed beds. These are the kinds of landscapes that make the Netherlands so recognizable. We loved the way the guide kept us safe while giving plenty of interesting facts. The route takes you along scenic rivers and across historic dikes, with plenty of opportunity to stop, take photos, and breathe in the countryside.

Return by Boat

After cycling, you’ll hop on a boat back to Amsterdam, a pleasant way to relax and enjoy the water views. The boat ride offers a different perspective on the landscape, and many reviewers mention how refreshing it is to end the tour on the water, feeling connected to the city yet immersed in nature.

Value and Practicalities

At $58.11 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. The price covers the use of a bicycle, train tickets, and admission to the windmill, making it a well-rounded experience without hidden costs. Those who have participated note the small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guide.

The tour lasts roughly 5 hours, which makes it suitable for most travelers while still leaving the rest of your day free. The tour is booked about 31 days in advance on average, indicating good planning and popularity. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for cycling, and be prepared for typical Dutch weather — a light rain jacket can be handy.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise Hans for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. One called him “an amazing tour guide with so much knowledge” who made the day feel like a “Dutch history lesson.” The intimate group size also allows for a more relaxed, engaging experience.

Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, keep in mind that the full 5-hour itinerary involves active cycling. If you’re new to biking, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those with limited mobility, it’s worth considering whether the physical aspect matches your comfort level.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a deeper look at Dutch rural life. It suits those curious about traditional crafts, Dutch food, and scenic landscapes. It’s also perfect if you prefer small-group tours that foster a more personal connection with your guide and fellow travelers.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a passive, museum-only experience or those with mobility issues that make cycling challenging. However, for most active travelers, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of the Netherlands.

The Sum Up

In essence, this bike tour from Amsterdam offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun activities. You’ll get to explore parts of the Dutch countryside that are often hidden from the typical tourist path, including windmills, traditional crafts, and local delicacies. The experience is enriched by a knowledgeable guide and a small, friendly group, making it feel more like a day spent with friends than a tour.

For anyone eager to see a genuine side of Holland and enjoy a laid-back yet engaging day outdoors, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for active travelers who appreciate local craftsmanship, scenic views, and authentic tastes.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a train ticket from Amsterdam to Zaanstad and a boat back to the city, making transportation seamless.

What’s the duration of this tour?
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, covering cycling, sightseeing, and the boat ride.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, the bike is provided as part of the tour. It’s included in the price, so you just need to bring comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for most travelers comfortable on a bike. For very young children or those with mobility issues, it might require some consideration, as the cycling is part of the experience.

What are the main activities during the tour?
You’ll visit windmills, a paper mill, Zaanse Schans, watch clog making, taste local cheeses, and enjoy cycling through picturesque landscapes.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, drinks and snacks are not included, but there are plenty of opportunities to try local cheeses and buy snacks during the stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and interactive way to explore the Dutch countryside, this bike tour offers an ideal blend of adventure and cultural discovery. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply love being outdoors, it’s a charming way to deepen your connection with the Netherlands.