Top Places to See When Driving from Amsterdam to Castricum

Are you planning a road trip from Amsterdam to Castricum, North Holland? If so, you’re in luck as there are some amazing sites you won’t want to miss on this route. From cute little villages to stunning national parks, this route has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we’ve put together a list of top places you must see so you can make the most of this awesome road trip. So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road!

Historic Windmills of Zaanse Schans

When you’re driving from Amsterdam to Castricum, you can’t miss a visit to Zaanse Schans. This place is known for its collection of historic windmills, which are fully operational and still perform their original functions.

Take a tour through the mills and learn about the process of grinding oil, sawing wood, and making paints. You can also visit the museum, where you’ll learn about the history of the mills and see how they were vital in the development of the Dutch economy.

Alkmaar Cheese Market

If you’re a cheese lover, then a visit to the Alkmaar Cheese Market is a must. This market has been around for over four centuries, and it’s where local cheese producers sell their cheeses.

You can walk through the market and try the different varieties of cheese while learning about their production. The market is held every Friday from April to September, and you’ll also see traditional cheese carriers and dealers dressed in their traditional costumes.

Nature Reserve of De Hoep

Located just a few miles away from Castricum, the nature reserve of De Hoep is a beautiful area that features sand dunes and forests. Take a walk through the nature reserve and enjoy scenic views of the beaches and coastline.

The forest area offers a range of bird-watching and hiking trails, which are perfect if you’re looking for some time out in nature. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the hundreds of bird species that call this area their home.

Castle Muiderslot

This beautiful castle dates back to the 14th century and is located in the village of Muiden. A visit to the Muiderslot Castle is like a journey back in time. The castle is full of stories and legends and is surrounded by a moat, beautiful gardens, and grasslands.

Take a tour through the castle's various rooms and learn about the soldiers, knights, and other people who lived here. Especially noteworthy are the castle’s towers that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Amsterdam Beach

End your road trip with a visit to the beautiful Amsterdam Beach. With its serene environment and extensive coastline, it's hard to believe that you're not too far from the city.

The beach is an ideal place for swimming, windsurfing, and kite-surfing, and it's an excellent spot for lounging in the sun. You can take a walk, catch some sun, or grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous beachside cafes.

In Conclusion

The drive from Amsterdam to Castricum is full of beautiful sites and interesting landmarks. Be sure to include visits to the windmills of Zaanse Schans, the Alkmaar Cheese Market, the nature reserve of De Hoep, the Muiderslot Castle, and Amsterdam Beach.

Each of these sites offers a unique experience whether it's learning about Dutch history, enjoying nature's beauty or just relaxing by the water. We hope you enjoy this road trip as much as we did putting together this list. Happy travels!