When you are travelling to The Netherlands, you've got to try Dutch Cheese and try on some clogs, right? There are many places you can do this obviously, especially in Amsterdam. However, if you prefer to know a little bit more about the history of the clog and cheese making processes, Volendam is a good town to visit. The Simonehoeve Cheese Farm and Clog Factory offers both experiences in one.
The Simonehoeve offers a free guided tour. There is no need to make a reservation, walk-ins are welcome. They do the tours multiple times throughout the day. A guide dressed in traditional Dutch clothing will do a show-and-tell of the history and process of making these classically Dutch products. After the presentation they take you to the gift shop where you can try on all kinds of clogs and also taste all the delicious cheeses they make. They have traditional cheeses like Gouda and Edam, but also unique cheeses with flavors like pesto, cumin seeds, stinging nettle, and more. Besides clogs and cheese there are many other Dutch souvenirs available to purchase.
The Simonehoeve is right by Volendam which is a beautiful and popular fishing village in The Netherlands. To read more about Volendam, read my previous post about it here.
Travel Tip
If you're looking for a good restaurant nearby, I'd recommend the
Martinus Restaurant at the Hotel Volendam. Hotel Volendam is a 4-star hotel and their restaurant is just as excellent. It's right next door and it's a great place to eat and also a great place to stay.
If you love doing all the typical tourist things and like to experience just a quick tour of clogs and cheese, this is a good place to go. Since walk-ins are welcome it is really easy to do this right before you head to Volendam or when you are on your way out.
Until the next departure!
(*All links are personal suggestions and nonaffiliated)
Dutch Cheese and Wooden Shoes
Learn all about Dutch cheese and the history of clog making in Volendam.
