The Green Heart Of Holland

OVERVIEW

Cruise through a labyrinth of lakes in a lush, eco-friendly area of Holland known as the Green Heart. On the panoramic drive south, you will get a genuine feel for this low-lying naturally beautiful landscape. The cruise will begin in Warmond, a popular village for boating as it lies on the Kagerplassen lake system. While navigating the canals that connect the lakes, you will pass idyllic villages and numerous polder islands created from reclaimed land that may have been underwater at one time. Flood control is always top of mind in this part of Holland and windmills are often used to continually drain the polders. While stopping at the Lisserpoelmolen windmill, you will see firsthand how it has been operating day in and day out since 1676. It is thought to be the first windmill with a screw pump, a device that was used until 1989, when electric was installed to power the windmill.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the countless canals that wind through the Kagerplassen lake system.
• Enjoy the scenery while snacking and sipping a jenever, a drink known as Dutch gin.
• Gain an understanding of how the land was originally drained, in part by windmills.
• Stop at a windmill that has been operating continuously since 1676.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.