Kinderdijk Windmills: A Complete Guide to Your Dutch Adventure

Discovering the Kinderdijk Windmills

Finally arriving at Kinderdijk felt like stepping into a postcard. Nineteen windmills, perfectly preserved, stood against the bright Dutch sky. The iconic scene was even more breathtaking in person than in pictures. It’s easy to see why it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

We'd opted for the 19-euro ticket, which, as it turned out, was a good investment. It covered access to the various museums, a boat tour (we ended up using it twice!), and even an audio guide. The map alone was worth the price; navigating this charming village with its waterways would have been much more difficult without it.

Climbing one of the windmills was a highlight. The views from the top were simply stunning – a patchwork of green fields, sparkling canals, and of course, the rest of the windmills. It was a bit of a climb, but well worth the effort! Surprisingly, despite its popularity, the overall atmosphere was calm and peaceful.

After exploring the windmills, we grabbed some Dutch snacks and enjoyed the quiet before catching the water bus back to Rotterdam. Kinderdijk wasn't just a pretty picture; it offered a unique and unexpectedly peaceful escape, a perfect blend of history, nature, and a bit of Dutch charm.

Snack Break and Relaxation

After exploring the impressive windmills, we needed a break. The climb had been invigorating, and the fresh air had worked up our appetites. We found a quiet spot, and I purchased some Dutch Farmers crisps – a surprisingly addictive potato snack – and a cookie for Henry. He declared them ‘good, but different,’ a charmingly understated Finnish endorsement.

We enjoyed our simple snack while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Despite the popularity of Kinderdijk, the overall ambiance was surprisingly calm. The rhythmic swoosh of the windmills, the gentle lapping of the water against the banks, and the expansive view of fields created a serene backdrop for our little picnic. It was the perfect moment to simply relax and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings before heading back.

Souvenirs and Departure from Kinderdijk

Before leaving Kinderdijk, we naturally had to browse the souvenir shops. We found everything from clog-shaped chocolates to windmill-themed socks – a delightful array of kitsch and charming gifts. I almost bought a pair of those socks myself, but Henry's disapproving glance (and a nagging sense of practicality) steered me away.

Of course, no trip to the Netherlands is complete without a stroopwafel. We found a warm, gooey one near the water bus stop and savored it as a perfect end to our Kinderdijk adventure. It was the ideal sweet treat to complete the experience, a sticky, delicious exclamation point to a memorable day.

Soon, we were back on the water bus, heading towards Rotterdam. The return journey was much smoother than our arrival; the boat arrived on time, and we reached Rotterdam without incident. From there, it was a simple train ride back to Leiden, a peaceful conclusion to a day perfectly spent amongst the windmills.

How do I get to Kinderdijk from Rotterdam?

The easiest way is to take water bus number 21 from Rotterdam's Erasmus Bridge. While tickets can be purchased onboard, an OV chip card is recommended. Be aware that the water bus schedule can be unpredictable, so checking the timetable beforehand is crucial.

What is there to do at Kinderdijk, and how much does it cost?

Kinderdijk offers access to nineteen windmills, museums, boat tours, and an audio guide. A 19-euro ticket provides access to these attractions, while exploring the grounds without a ticket is also possible. Climbing a windmill is recommended for stunning views.