A windmill and its former purpose
Molen Weel en Braken dates from 1632 and is a wipmolen and ground-sail windmill. It once drained the 76-hectare Weel en Braken polder. Its historic function shows that the mill is not just a structure, but also part of an earlier water management system. It is generally open on Sundays when the mill is operating, as well as by appointment. Check visiting hours before your trip.
Trails of varying lengths
For a walk through village centers and green spaces, Koggenland has trails of varying lengths. The Oud Obdam route is 2.0 kilometers long and passes through Obdam’s oldest village center. The green alternative route is 2.8 kilometers long, passing through the Buitenloof village forest and along other green spaces. At 3.7 kilometers, the walking route through Avenhorn and De Goorn is the longest of the three; it passes various attractions described in the route brochure.
The Noord-Hollandpad offers a different scale: this long-distance trail is 284 kilometers long and divided into 16 stages of 10 to 25 kilometers each. Stage 9 runs from Obdam to Schermerhorn. The route follows quiet country roads and unpaved church paths, as well as straight waterways, winding ditches, peat meadows, and grassy dikes with numerous stiles. Check the current route before your hike, as route descriptions may be revised.
Experience the landscape and water
The 58-hectare De Hulk recreation area is divided into sections inside and outside the dikes. Ecological measures have been implemented along parts of the shoreline. In an area focused on nature development, visitors can see a diverse range of plant and animal life.
For swimming, De Leijen on Gemaalweg in Hensbroek is Koggenland’s only official swimming spot in natural waters. Water quality can vary seasonally; check the advisories before swimming. The Polder Westerkogge route passes through open countryside and along several village centers. It is suitable for shallow-draft boats, rowing boats, and canoes.
Museum and play area
Museumboerderij De Anloup is located in Zuidermeer in a West Frisian stolp farmhouse. Exhibits include clothing, tools, and household items from earlier farming life. Visits are possible by appointment; confirm your appointment before setting out.
Kinderparadijs Koggenland is for families with children aged 0 to 12. It offers almost 2,000 m² of indoor play space, as well as an outdoor meadow, play equipment, and space to play soccer. Facilities and age information may change; check the latest details before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Berkhout, Ursem, Obdam, Zuidermeer, Avenhorn, Oudendijk, Scharwoude, Hensbroek, Spierdijk.
Back to the main travel overview: North Holland.
