Welcome to Kinderdijk, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, where history and harmony blend against a backdrop of timeless windmills.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the largest clusters of working windmills in the world, all set along the picturesque canals in the Dutch countryside. Ideal for our Lykkers who appreciate cultural heritage and natural beauty, this guide will help you plan a perfect visit to the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk.

Getting to Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is accessible via a short trip from major Dutch cities such as Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The most convenient way to reach this historic site is by car or public transportation. From Rotterdam, you can take a waterbus that offers a scenic route along the river, reaching Kinderdijk in approximately 30 minutes. The cost for a round trip ticket is about €12, providing a direct and enjoyable approach to the area.

Best Times to Visit

Kinderdijk is enchanting throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is mild and the windmills are fully operational. The site opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM, allowing plenty of time for visitors to explore and take guided tours which are available from April through October.

Exploring the Windmills

The windmills at Kinderdijk, built around the 18th century, were originally constructed to drain the Alblasserwaard polders, which were prone to flooding. Today, they stand as a monument to human ingenuity and the Dutch spirit of water management. Visitors can enter some of these windmills, which are still inhabited by millers, and see how they have been meticulously maintained to continue working to this day.

Entry Fees and Tours

Entrance to the Kinderdijk site requires a ticket, which costs €9 for adults and includes access to the visitor center, a multi-screen film presentation, and two museum mills. For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available at an additional cost of €5, offering insights into the history and mechanics of the windmills.

Activities and Amenities

Besides the windmill tours, Kinderdijk offers several walking and biking paths along the canals. Bicycles are available for rent at the visitor center for about €5 per hour, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. The site also features a café where you can enjoy traditional Dutch snacks and a shop with souvenirs and local crafts.

Photography and Preservation

Kinderdijk is a photographer’s paradise, especially during the golden hour when the setting sun casts a magical glow over the mills and water. As a UNESCO site, visitors are encouraged to respect the area’s natural and historical integrity by adhering to guidelines that help preserve this precious landscape for future generations.

To wrap up

A trip to Kinderdijk offers more than just a glimpse into Dutch historical engineering—it’s a chance to connect with a pivotal part of the Netherlands' cultural heritage. Whether cycling along the misty canals in the morning or watching the sunset behind the ancient mills, Kinderdijk provides a peaceful yet profound experience that resonates with all who visit.

The Mills of Kinderdijk - Netherlands Tourist Guide - Travel & Discover

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