Windmill Park (Kinderdijk) | Rotterdam

Windmill Park (Kinderdijk) is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations in the Netherlands, known for its historic windmills, which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the South Holland province, near the town of Alblasserdam, Kinderdijk is home to a remarkable group of 19 windmills that were built in the 18th century to manage the local water levels and prevent flooding.

Key Features of Windmill Park (Kinderdijk):

1. History and Background

Origins of the Windmills: The windmills at Kinderdijk were constructed around 1740 as part of a larger system designed to manage the water levels in the region. The area is located below sea level, so the windmills were necessary to pump water out of the polders (reclaimed land) into nearby rivers and canals. The windmills are part of the larger Dutch effort to reclaim land and control water, a system that has been crucial to the country’s development.

UNESCO World Heritage Status: In 1997, Kinderdijk was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and its exemplary role in the Dutch water management system. It’s considered one of the best-preserved examples of windmill-based water management in the world.

2. The 19 Windmills

Design: The Kinderdijk windmills are traditional Dutch windmills, with large, wooden blades that rotate to turn a mill mechanism that pumps water. The windmills are arranged along a canal in a scenic alignment, with the most iconic view being the row of 19 windmills set against the backdrop of the Dutch countryside.

Types of Windmills: While most of the 19 windmills at Kinderdijk are traditional windmills used for water management, some were built for other purposes, such as sawing wood or pumping water for specific uses in the surrounding area.

Working Windmills: While most of the windmills at Kinderdijk are no longer in operation, several of them are still in working order and occasionally open for visitors to experience. You can see how the windmill machinery works when the wind conditions are favorable, providing a glimpse into how these giants of Dutch history functioned.

3. Exploring the Park

Kinderdijk is not only a historic site but also an attractive place for visitors to experience Dutch culture and nature. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Windmill Park:

A. Visitor Center

Exhibits and Information: The Kinderdijk Visitor Center provides an introduction to the history of the windmills, explaining their purpose, construction, and role in Dutch water management. The center includes multimedia exhibits, interactive displays, and educational materials about the history of the polders, Dutch water management, and the windmill's cultural significance.

Souvenirs and Snacks: The center also has a small gift shop offering souvenirs like Dutch-themed products, windmill models, and local specialties. There are also cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a coffee while taking in the surroundings.

B. Boat Tour

• Canal Cruise: A popular way to see Kinderdijk is via a boat tour along the canals. These tours provide a unique perspective of the windmills, especially from the water, where visitors can get a closer look at the iconic structures and the surrounding landscape. The boat tour also gives an insight into the water management system and how the windmills contribute to maintaining water levels in the area.

C. Walking and Cycling Trails

Walking Paths: There are well-maintained walking paths throughout the Kinderdijk area that allow visitors to explore the windmills up close. The paths run alongside the canals, with opportunities to stop at different windmills, read informational plaques, and take photos of the stunning landscapes.

Cycling Routes: For those looking to explore the area more extensively, Kinderdijk is also part of the Dutch cycling network. There are several cycling routes around the area, including a route that connects the windmills with nearby towns like Alblasserdam, making it a perfect way to enjoy the countryside.

D. Boat and Bicycle Rental

• Visitors can rent bicycles or small boats at Kinderdijk to explore the area more independently. Renting a bike gives you the freedom to roam the surrounding polders and enjoy the view of the windmills from different angles. Boat rentals allow you to navigate the canals at your own pace, giving you a chance to experience the windmills from the water.

4. The Windmills' Function and Significance

Water Management: The primary role of the Kinderdijk windmills is water management. The windmills were used to pump excess water from the polders (reclaimed land) into the rivers. This was necessary to prevent flooding, particularly during the rainy season or when the water levels in the rivers rose.

Technological Marvel: The windmills of Kinderdijk are an important part of the Dutch innovation in water management. They demonstrate how the Dutch have used wind and water power for centuries to reclaim and protect land from the sea.

5. Special Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Kinderdijk hosts a number of special events and activities, which allow visitors to experience the windmills in a different light:

A. National Windmill Day

• Windmill Day is celebrated every second Saturday of May. During this event, visitors can explore the working windmills, learn about the traditional craftsmanship involved in windmill maintenance, and enjoy special events like demonstrations, workshops, and music performances.

B. Christmas at Kinderdijk

• During the holiday season, Kinderdijk is often decorated with Christmas lights, and visitors can enjoy a cozy and festive atmosphere while walking around the windmills. Some of the windmills are open for tours, and there are often Christmas markets nearby.

6. Accessibility

Location: Kinderdijk is located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Rotterdam and is easily accessible by public transport, car, or boat. There are direct bus routes from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk, as well as train connections to nearby towns like Alblasserdam. From the station, you can take a short walk or a bus to the windmill park.

Opening Hours: The windmill park is open year-round, although the hours of operation may vary by season. The Visitor Center is typically open daily during high season (spring and summer), while some services may be reduced in the winter months.

Admission: There is an entry fee to access the Kinderdijk windmills and Visitor Center. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance. The price of admission typically includes access to the windmills, walking paths, and the visitor center, as well as a guided tour of one or more of the windmills.

7. Conclusion

Windmill Park (Kinderdijk) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Dutch history, culture, and engineering. The 19 iconic windmills, set against the stunning backdrop of the Dutch landscape, offer a unique insight into the country’s long-standing relationship with water management. Whether you visit for the historic significance, the scenic beauty, or the adventure activities, Kinderdijk is an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Dutch ingenuity and heritage.