Walking through Zaans Heritage

Zaans Heritage walking route: from hustle and bustle to tranquillity along the water This 6.1-kilometre walking route takes you through the heart of the Zaan region, from the tourist bustle of the Zaanse Schans to the quiet, almost forgotten corners that most visitors never reach. And it is precisely this contrast that makes it so special. You start at the Zaanse Schans, with its iconic wooden houses, windmills and clog-making workshop along the Zaan and the Kalverringdijk. Along the way, you’ll walk across the Engewormerdijk and alongside the Ringvaart, until you reach the Braaksloot with its houseboats and the hamlet of Haaldersbroek, a spot said to have been inhabited since the 13th century and where the oldest cottage dates from 1661. There’s no sign of mass tourism here; it’s quiet, authentic and almost timeless. Along the way, there are some lovely places to stop, including Café Brasserie Het Heerenhuis and restaurant D’Swarte Walvis. The route can be downloaded as a GPX file. A delightful walk for anyone who wants to discover the real Zaanstreek, far beyond the souvenir shops.