more of the real holland…

Well the gals certainly know how to show a visitor the real Holland!   Besides the countryside…which was my absolute favorite…there are a few more things you must experience if you ever go and visit this gorgeous country.

When I think of Holland, certainly windmills come to mind.  But no, they couldn’t just show me any old windmill… they had to show me a very special windmill…like a one and only windmill…the only drive-thru windmill in the world located in Wijk bij Duurstede. 

rijn en lek

And not only do you get the windmill in this adorable little village, but you also get the Kasteel Duurstede.  A medieval castle built in 1270.  I mean really, 1270!  Today the location is used mostly for dinner parties and weddings. What a venue that would be!

castle duurstede

And speaking of dinner…you must try a pannekoekan.  A Dutch pancake loaded with toppings similar to how we in the U.S. would top a pizza.  Yummers!  (Sorry no photos since food photography is not my specialty…but just TRUST ME.  Delicious!)

And our final destination, before they delivered me back to Amsterdam?  Hoorn.  OMG.  Hoorn.

hoorn

A picturesque harbor filled with quaint shops, restaurants and many many sailboats.  The perfect ending to sharing the real Holland with me.  I can’t thank them enough for sharing their country, their hospitality and their friendship!  Dank je wel! A trip I’ll never forget!