Bergambacht was built on a donk, a sandy hill, which remains the highest point in the Krimpenerwaard. This location connects the town with the region’s landscape. There are different ways to focus your stay: Gouda made from milk produced on the farm, nature watching and trails through pastureland, or traces of architectural history. You can then decide whether to focus on regional produce, a walking route or historic buildings.
Farm-made Gouda and a convenient stop
At Melkvee- en Kaasboerderij Schep in Bergambacht, Gouda is made according to a family recipe using milk from the farm’s own herd. This gives the milk and cheese a specific origin: the milk is produced on the farm, where the business turns it into cheese. You’ll find the Kaasboerderij Schep farm shop at Zuidbroek 153, 2861 LL Bergambacht. It is open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm; check the opening hours before you set out. This lets you consider the cheese-making process and planning a possible shop visit as two distinct aspects of the regional food offering.
Nespolder: trails, weather and birdlife
The trail through the Nespolder leads from post to post across the meadows. After rain, sturdy shoes or even wellington boots may be necessary. The weather is therefore a practical factor when choosing footwear. The birdlife can also be distinguished by habitat: meadow birds and marsh birds can be spotted in the Nespolder. The former stay in wet meadows, while the latter are found in reed beds. Those interested in nature watching will therefore find two clearly defined habitats here and can focus on the different groups of birds that live in them.
There is also a cycling route called “Schipper mag ik overvaren”. It crosses several ferry connections. The ferries are therefore part of planning the route; it is worth checking the timetables before setting off so you can plan your crossings accordingly.
Castle, mill and bridge from different eras
The former ’s Heeraartsberg Castle was built around 1250 by Heer Van den Berg. Its earliest recorded mention dates from 1377. The construction date and the earliest recorded reference are two different historical dates. The castle was demolished in 1909. An apartment complex now stands on the site, its name and form recalling the former castle. This makes it possible to distinguish the history of the former building from the way it is commemorated today.
The Den Arend windmill also tells a story of several building periods. It was built in 1869 to replace a small wooden post mill dating from 1553. The dates therefore refer to two different mills: the construction of today’s grain mill and that of its older predecessor. At the restored bridge near Hoeve Tusschenlanen, by contrast, the material takes centre stage. It was built from hand-moulded IJssel bricks. Because these bricks match those of the neighbouring house, built in 1661, the bridge is estimated to be about 360 years old. This remains an estimate, based on comparison with the house.
Discover more destinations: Berkenwoude
Return to the main travel overview: Bergambacht.
